How to Stop Draughts from uPVC Windows

Draughty windows can dramatically reduce energy efficiency, undermining the very purpose of your uPVC installations. While uPVC windows are known for their excellent insulation properties, even the best installations can develop draughts over time.

As a trade supplier of uPVC windows, our professional customers often ask us how to address draught issues. In this comprehensive guide, we’ll explore the causes of draughts in uPVC windows and provide practical solutions to stop them.

Why Are Draughts in uPVC Windows a Problem?

Draughts from uPVC windows aren’t just a minor inconvenience; they can significantly impact the home and the owner. They compromise energy efficiency, allowing warm air to escape and cold air to enter, potentially increasing energy bills and heating costs.

Draughty windows can create an uncomfortable living environment, with cold spots and temperature fluctuations. Draughts can also contribute to issues like dampness and mould growth, which can damage property and even pose health risks. By addressing window draughts, you’re not just improving comfort but also protecting your customers’ homes and potentially saving them plenty of money in the long run.

Understanding the Causes of Draughts in uPVC Windows

Before attempting to fix draughty windows, it’s important to understand what causes them in the first place. Some common reasons include:

• • Worn or damaged window seals.
  • Gaps between the window frame and wall.
  • Warped or misaligned window sashes.
  • Cracks in the uPVC frame.
  • Faulty window locks or hinges.
  • Poor installation leaving gaps.

Identifying the specific cause will help determine the most effective solution. Let’s look at some methods for detecting draughts.

How to Detect Draughts in uPVC Windows

A homeowner might be able to tell you that they can feel a draught, but they may not know exactly which window has been compromised. Here are a few simple techniques you can use to pinpoint draught sources:

• • Visual inspection – Look for visible gaps or damage around the window.
  • Feel for air movement – Run your hand around the edges of the closed window.
  • Use a candle or incense stick – Hold it near the window edges and watch for flickering.
  • Thermal imaging – You can use a thermal camera or heat sensor to detect cold spots.

Once you’ve located the draught, you can move on to fixing it.

How to Stop Draughts From uPVC Windows

1. Replace Worn Window Seals

Deteriorated window seals are a common source of draughts. Replacing the rubber or brush strips around the window frame and sashes can make a big difference. Make sure to use high-quality seals designed for uPVC windows.

2. Apply Weatherstripping

Weatherstripping tape is a quick, affordable and easy way to seal small gaps. Apply self-adhesive foam or rubber weatherstripping around the window frame and sashes where they meet. This creates an airtight seal when the window is closed.

3. Use Caulk to Fill Gaps

Use exterior-grade caulk to fill larger gaps between the window frame and the wall. Clean the area thoroughly first and apply the caulk in a continuous bead. Smooth it out with a wet finger for a neat finish.

4. Adjust Window Hinges and Locks

Misaligned windows can create gaps that let in draughts. Adjust the hinges to ensure the window closes flush against the frame. Tighten any loose locks, bolts or screws so the window seals properly when closed.

5. Install Draught Excluders

Brush strips or rubber draught excluders can be fitted along the bottom of sliding sash windows to prevent draughts. For casement windows, install draught excluders around the entire perimeter of the opening. Ensure you choose the correct size for optimal performance.

6. Add Window Insulation Film

Applying a thin plastic window film over the glass creates an extra insulating layer to reduce heat loss and draughts. A draught snake can be a quick, temporary fix for the bottom of doors or windows. This is an inexpensive temporary solution for winter months.

7. Consider Secondary Glazing

Installing secondary glazing panels over existing windows provides excellent draught-proofing and insulation. While more expensive, it’s very effective for older, single-glazed windows. Period properties or properties with conservation rules may be excluded from utilising double glazing; for these homes, secondary glazing can be a great solution to any draughts or energy-inefficient windows.

8. Repair or Replace Damaged uPVC Frames

If the uPVC frame is cracked or warped, it may need to be repaired or replaced entirely to eliminate draughts. Modern uPVC windows come with stronger frames and improved energy ratings, making them a worthwhile investment and often a permanent solution.

When to Replace Draughty Windows

While the above solutions can fix many draught issues, sometimes replacement is the best option. Consider installing new windows if:

• • The frames are severely damaged or warped.
  • There are significant gaps that can’t be easily sealed.
  • The windows are old and inefficient.
  • Multiple issues are present that would be costly to repair.

New uPVC windows with modern technology and locking systems will provide superior draught-proofing and energy efficiency and may be more financially prudent than fixing several existing issues.

The Benefits of Draught-Proofing uPVC Windows

Taking steps to stop draughts from your uPVC windows offers several significant benefits:

• • Improved comfort – Eliminate cold spots and maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
  • Energy savings – Reduce heat loss and lower central heating bills.
  • Better soundproofing – Block outside noise for a quieter interior.
  • Reduced condensation – Prevent moisture buildup on windowpanes and reduce the risk of mould.

Draught-proofing is a worthwhile investment that can significantly improve the performance of uPVC windows. It can be appealing for customers to have their existing windows fixed rather than have to go through the process of having completely new windows.

Contact Us for Further Advice

Draughty uPVC windows can be frustrating, but many effective solutions are available, from simple DIY fixes like weatherstripping to professional installation of new energy-efficient windows. By understanding the causes and following the tips in this guide, you can understand how to stop draughts from uPVC windows, help customers with their draught issues and improve overall window performance.

For high-quality uPVC windows and expert advice, contact Victorian Sliders, Europe’s largest uPVC vertical sliding sash window manufacturer. Our friendly team can help you choose the right solution for your current work, whether repairing existing windows or replacing the entire window unit.

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