Correct sealing of windows and doors: our expertise
Proper sealing of windows and doors plays a crucial role in the energy performance of a building. Heat loss, air leaks and moisture problems can have major consequences for both comfort and energy consumption. On this expertise page, we bring together our knowledge on the correct sealing of windows and doors: from important points of attention during installation to the right products and systems to achieve a durable and airtight connection.
Why is proper sealing of windows and doors essential?
Proper sealing of windows and doors is essential for an energy-efficient and comfortable home. When gaps and openings are not properly sealed, heat can easily escape and cold air can enter. This not only leads to a higher energy bill, but also to draughts and a less pleasant indoor climate. By sealing windows and doors properly, you improve living comfort and also contribute to more sustainable energy consumption.
Which problems can you prevent with proper sealing of windows and doors?
Less heat loss and lower energy costs
Poorly installed or insufficiently sealed windows can cause significant heat loss. A correct, airtight connection limits this loss and reduces the energy demand for heating and cooling. This can make a significant difference on the energy bill each year.
No draught or moisture problems
Draughts along windows or doors often indicate air leaks in the connection joints. Those same openings can also allow moisture to enter. Moisture infiltration increases the risk of mould formation and can, over time, cause damage to walls, plasterwork or joinery. Proper sealing prevents these problems.
Better sound insulation
Many people think that sound mainly enters through the glass. In reality, poorly finished connections are often the weak link. By sealing joints correctly, disturbing outdoor noise is significantly reduced. This noticeably increases living and working comfort.
Longer lifespan of windows and doors
Durable sealing protects joinery against moisture, temperature fluctuations and external influences. As a result, windows and doors last longer and their performance is maintained over the long term.
How do you achieve proper sealing of windows and doors?
Good sealing does not consist of a single product, but of a well-considered combination of solutions. This well-considered combination translates into three functional layers: a weather-resistant exterior, an insulating middle zone and an airtight interior. Each of these layers fulfils a specific role within the whole and together they ensure a durable and energy-efficient connection that meets current building requirements.
Outer layer: protection against weather influences
The exterior of a building forms the first line of defence against external influences. Proper sealing and protection of this layer is essential to guarantee the durability, energy performance and comfort of a building. Therefore, this exterior must fulfil several important functions.
Driving rain-tight
The first important property is driving rain tightness. This means that the exterior of the building envelope prevents rainwater from penetrating the construction through the façade or connections. A driving rain-tight exterior protects the construction against moisture problems and contributes to a durable building envelope.
Vapour-open
In addition to protection against rain, the exterior must also be vapour-open. This means that any moisture present in the construction can escape to the outside. Moisture can accumulate in any construction. By having a vapour-open exterior, this moisture can evaporate. This reduces the risk of condensation and moisture build-up.
Wind- and airtight (from the outside)
Wind and airtightness on the exterior also plays an important role. Due to pressure differences, air can move through small openings in the building envelope. This can lead to heat loss and reduced energy performance of the building.
Middle zone – insulating core
The middle zone forms the insulating core of the connection around windows and doors. This zone plays an important role in the overall performance of the connection. A correctly executed middle zone therefore directly contributes to both energy comfort and acoustic comfort in a building.
Thermal insulation
A first important function of the middle zone is thermal insulation. By correctly filling the space between the window or door and the structural opening, heat transfer is limited. A well-insulated connection therefore helps to reduce the building’s energy loss and contributes to lower energy consumption for heating or cooling.
Acoustic insulation
In addition to thermal performance, the middle zone also plays a role in the acoustic insulation of the connection. When the space between the window or door and the structure is correctly filled, the transmission of disturbing noises and vibrations through the building envelope is reduced.
Inner layer – airtight finish
The inner layer forms the airtight finish on the interior side of the connection around windows and doors. This layer plays an important role in controlling air and moisture flows from the interior towards the construction.
Airtight (from the inside)
A first important function of the inner layer is airtightness on the interior side. By finishing the connection correctly and airtight, uncontrolled air flows through gaps and openings are avoided. This prevents heat loss and reduced energy performance of the building.
Vapour-retarding
In addition to airtightness, the inner layer must also be vapour-retarding. When moist indoor air can penetrate the construction uncontrollably, this can lead to condensation within the building envelope. A vapour-retarding inner layer prevents this.
Which solution do we offer for low-energy and passive construction?
To help you correctly seal windows and doors, we have developed a practical brochure and a clear application video. In this video, you will see step by step how a window is correctly sealed using the right combination of products.
The specific procedures and guidelines for each product can be found in the technical data sheets available on each product page.
Be sure to also consult the frequently asked questions about sealing windows and doors.
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