More than a Seal

• July 29, 2026|
• Q-LON

Driving innovation forward and supporting the future of the industry are just some of the reasons why Schlegel is the sealing specialist at the heart of Quanex…

For many people, the Schlegel name will need little introduction.

For decades, the company’s sealing solutions have been used in windows and doors across the world, while its high-performance composite foam gasket Q-LON has become one of the most recognised products in the industry.

What fewer people may realise, however, is how Schlegel’s role has evolved in recent years and how important the business has become within the wider Quanex group since its acquisition 24 months ago.

Today, Schlegel combines more than a century of sealing expertise with the backing of a global manufacturing organisation that also includes well-known fenestration brands such as Edgetech and Liniar.

140+ years of leading the way

Founded in Rochester, New York, in 1885, Schlegel has spent more than 140 years developing sealing technologies for windows and doors. Throughout that time, the company has built a reputation for quality, reliability and continuous product development, leading the way in sealing and gasket design.

From its European headquarters in Newton Aycliffe, County Durham, and factory in Henlow, Bedfordshire, Schlegel produces a range of sealing solutions including Q-LON, brush pile products and extruded seals for timber, aluminium and uPVC windows and door systems.

“Schlegel has always been focused on delivering sealing solutions that help customers achieve the highest levels of performance,” said Steve Digby, Vice President of Operations at Newton Aycliffe. “And that commitment to quality remains at the heart of everything we do.”

The Quanex connection

While Schlegel’s heritage remains an important part of its identity, the company is also playing an increasingly strategic role within Quanex.

The strength of that commitment was demonstrated recently through a £1 million investment in new production machinery and extrusion capability at Schlegel’s Newton Aycliffe facility, underlining the group’s long-term commitment to UK manufacturing and supporting future growth across the Quanex network. The investment is increasing production capacity, but also capability and flexibility to meet future needs, within both Schlegel and Quanex.

Steve said: “Schlegel plays a vital role within Quanex’s global manufacturing network, and this investment strengthens our position for the future while providing a platform for further product development and growth.

“And I think for our customers, they are working with a specialist sealing manufacturer that produces products right here in the UK that is backed by significant resources, technical expertise and long-term investment from a global organisation so we can deliver the quality and service our customers expect.”

Shaping the next chapter

Alongside continued investment in manufacturing and product innovation, Schlegel is strengthening its commercial strategy to support the next phase of growth, not only across the windows and doors sector, but also in expanding into new markets where demand for high-performance sealing solutions continues to grow and increasing its presence across Europe in line with the Quanex growth strategy, including France, Italy and Spain.

Backed by investment in people, resources and a new product development pipeline, Schlegel is also enhancing the service it offers customers through bespoke customer solutions, including product customisation, free consultancy and dedicated technical support for product development.

With exciting new product launches already planned for early 2027, Mike Moran, VP Sales (Seals & Spacers), said: “We’re not only strengthening Schlegel’s position in its traditional markets, but we’re also looking to help customers unlock new opportunities through innovation and collaboration.

“Whether it’s developing bespoke sealing solutions or bringing new technologies to market, we’re investing in the people and partnerships that will drive long-term success for both Schlegel and our customers.”

Building the next generation

Schlegel’s commitment to the future extends beyond products and manufacturing. Quanex has set out a clear roadmap for sustainable development, encompassing products, a healthy planet and supporting people and communities. Since 2022 Schlegel has reduced its scope 1 and 2 CO₂ and Green House Gases (GHG) emissions by 89% across its operations.

Working with STEM college UTC South Durham, which is also based in Newton Aycliffe, Schlegel has also been actively involved in the college’s Industry Projects programme, which gives STEM students the opportunity to work on genuine business challenges set by local employers.

The partnership has already delivered tangible results, with a previous student-led project producing a solution that was subsequently implemented within Schlegel’s operations and is now being explored for patent protection and wider rollout.

“As a manufacturer with deep roots in the North East, supporting the next generation of engineers coming through is important to us,” added Steve. “The skills shortage facing UK manufacturing is well documented, and initiatives like this help students gain valuable real-world experience while also helping businesses like ours develop a strong pipeline of potential future talent.”

The future is looking bright for Schlegel in more ways than one.