There are some things that are everywhere, but we don’t notice them as they usually work in the sidelines. Instances such as opening and sealing things are something we don’t really talk about until it becomes bothersome for us. What we mean here is that rubber gaskets are everywhere, as they keep things running smoothly—literally. So if it’s that important, how do we protect their quality by handling properly and storing them in the right places? Here are a few simple precautions to keep you getting the most out of your rubber gasket sheets.

What Is a Rubber Gasket Sheet, and Why Does It Matter?

A rubber gasket sheet is a flexible material that is used to create seals between two surfaces. Regardless of the material and texture, rubber gasket sheets prevent leaks to keep any operation of those systems efficient. This does not only mean in industrial settings but also simple things like car maintenance, the plumbing system in your home, and even appliances that handle food.

The Main Causes of Rubber Gasket Deterioration

Before we dive into storage and handling tips, it’s important to remember that rubber gasket sheets can tear and get ruined when they’re exposed to heat and UV light. Other situations like moisture and humidity can grow moulds in them, while chemicals can make the gasket swell so that it won’t function the way it needs to. Lastly, placing heavy objects on these rubber sheets can damage their ability to seal.

Best Practices for Storing Rubber Gasket Sheets

To ensure your gasket sheets last as long as possible, follow these storage tips:

Keep them in a cool, dry place, away from sunlight and electrical equipment. Gasket sheets, like all rubber materials, get brittle because of heat and direct UV exposure. This is why when storing them, make sure that you wrap them in something like a plastic bag or cardboard box away from heat and even any equipment with high voltage.

Keep them away from oils and chemicals. Gasket sheets can withstand oil resistance—and while this may be true, unnecessary exposure can still affect the longevity of your sheets. Be mindful of where to store them so that they are separated from any harsh liquids like chemicals and oils.

Lay flat or roll loosely. If you have little storage space, you might have no choice but to roll them up instead of folding them. And when you roll them for storing, make sure that you avoid putting stress on it by rolling it up loosely.

How to Handle Rubber Gasket Sheets Without Damaging Them

And even if you already store your gasket sheets in a way that they don’t get damaged, handling them properly is still the most optimum way to avoid premature wear. Always keep in mind to wear gloves, make sure to cut them with a sharp gasket cutter and prevent pulling them apart, and always check if there are worn-out signs before you use the gasket sheet.

Proper storage and handling means fewer headaches down the road.

Let’s face it—no matter how well you store and handle your rubber gasket sheets, they will still eventually wear out. But this doesn’t mean that you have to be complacent in handling them with care, as extending their lifespan will save you lots of money and hassle.