Quick Takeaways:
Most draughty UPVC windows can be repaired
Budget draught-proofing vs long-term investment - pros and cons
How to find and stop window draughts
When a window replacement might be necessary
How Manchester Window Factory can help
Want to know how to stop draughts from UPVC windows? You’ve come to the right place.
At Manchester Window Factory, we have over 25 years of experience supplying and installing UPVC windows in homes across the UK.
We understand that draughty windows are not just an inconvenience but a serious problem that can lead to increased energy bills, cold rooms, higher noise pollution, water leaks, and weather damage.
Draughts can make rooms uncomfortable, causing you to spend less time in them while spending more money trying to heat them, particularly in the winter. The Energy Savings Trust estimates that the average semi-detached home in the UK could save around £40 a year by draught proofing windows.
The good news is that there are plenty of simple fixes to eliminate drafts and extend the lifespan of your UPVC windows before a replacement becomes necessary.
In this blog, we outline some causes of draughts, offer solutions for how to stop them and explain when a window may need replacing.
How to Stop Draughts from UPVC Windows?
How you draught-proof your windows will depend on the severity of the problem, your budget, and any other issues that are occurring, such as excessive noise pollution or condensation on the inside of the windows.
First, though, you need to identify the source of the draught, and there are a few methods to do this:
- Look for condensation between the panes of glass in your double or triple-glazing.
- Make sure windows open and close properly.
- The candle test – move a light candle slowly around your window frame on a windy day, it will flicker where the draught is.
- The paper test – Close your window on a piece of paper, then try to pull it out without opening the window to check the integrity of the seal.
Remember to clean your windows and frames to remove any debris and ensure a blank canvas to work on. Use warm soapy water (washing up liquid or a gentle, non-abrasive spray) and a microfibre cloth. This should make it easier to spot any obvious gaps.
Next, strip/sand any loose paint on the frames at least 48 hours before applying tape or sealant.
Here are some of the most popular ways of draught-proofing windows:
- Check and adjust window hinges and seals – repair/replace parts if needed
- Apply replacement gaskets or seals around the window
- Apply weatherstripping tape between the windows and frames – cut to size
- Use sealant or professional repairs if required.
- Replace the caulk – use a silicone sealant gun for any gaps between the window frame and the wall
- Block out the cold with a draught excluder, also known as a draught snake
- Make sure your locks and hinges are in good working order – clean and lubricate them a few times a year
- Hang thermal curtains or blinds
- Apply window insulation frame to the glass
- Install secondary glazing
- Upgrade your glazing to double, triple, Planitherm, or acoustic glass
- Hire a professional draught-proofing service
Top Tip: Brush seals and wiper seals cost slightly more than foam weather seals but include a pile strip and pile carrier that slot together when the window is closed for better draught prevention.
If the window doesn’t need to open (i.e. isn’t a fire escape) you also have the option of using a silicone sealant to seal the window shut. Some kits allow you to temporarily seal a window through the colder months and remove it for the summer. They are easy to use and can be used more than once.
What Causes Leakage and Draughts in UPVC Windows?
Draughts and air/water leaks can be caused by a few different things, including:
- Worn or damaged seals and gaskets.
- Poor window installation or alignment.
- Frame expansion, warping, or general wear over time.
Pros and Cons of Draught-Proofing UPVC Windows
Each draught-proofing method has pros and cons, outlined in the table below.
Solution | Pros | Cons |
Check and seal gaps | Quick and inexpensive | May not fix underlying issues |
Insulate window frames | Better insulation | May need professional fitting |
Replace gaskets | Long-term fix | May not be DIY-friendly |
Draught excluders | Quick and inexpensive | May not be effective depending on draught location |
Thermal window film | Removable and inexpensive | Can be fiddly |
Thermal curtains or blinds | Better temperature control | May not fix underlying issues |
Professional draught-proofing service | Can rely on knowledge and skills | Can be expensive and isn’t guaranteed to solve the problem |
Full window replacement | Permanent solution | Higher upfront cost, not viable for rented properties |
When It’s Time to Replace Your UPVC Windows?
Sometimes, repairs don’t work or only offer a short-term solution. Although it is a significant investment, sometimes it is better to replace your UPVC windows, rather than waste money on short-term fixes.
You should replace your windows if:
- They are older than 15-20 years.
- You have single glazing.
- They were poorly installed.
- There is visible frame damage or warping.
- There is excessive condensation on the inside of the window.
- You experience persistent draughts after multiple repairs.
Conclusion
We hope this blog has offered some workable solutions for stopping draughts and repairing UPVC windows, whatever your budget. From draught excluders, thermal window film and insulating curtains, to glazing upgrades, caulk replacement and professional draught-proofing services, there are plenty of options that can help you reclaim your warm and comfortable living spaces.
Remember to also draught-proof other areas of your home, such as the doors, walls and roof, for maximum energy efficiency and comfort.
If you do decide to replace your UPVC windows, our CERTASS-certified professional in-house fitters can get the job done quickly and efficiently, with minimal disruption and mess.
For more expert advice and window replacement options, please contact us.
How to Get in Touch
To request a free brochure, you can call us on 0161 976 4739, use our contact form or chat with us via the chat button at the bottom right of this website. If you live locally, you can also visit our Altrincham showroom, and check our contacts page for up-to-date opening hours.
We look forward to hearing from you!
FAQs
Depending on the cause and severity of the draught, yes using a silicone sealant around the frame could stop your window from being draughty.
Yes, if there is a gap through which warm air is escaping and cold air is getting in, ambient sounds can also get through.
Some UPVC doors require a draught excluder along the bottom or fitted to the letterbox to fill the gaps that may be allowing draughts to enter your home.
As a rough guide, sealants, window films and draught excluders can cost as little as £10 – £20. Professional draught-proofing is around £50-£100, and a full window replacement can be approximately £2,000 per standard-sized window.
If none of the DIY fixes or the professional draught-proofing services do not solve the problem, you should invest in window replacement. Other reasons are outlined in the blog above.
Yes, upgrading your windows to double or triple glazing will help to stop draughts, as new UPVC windows have air-tight seals to prevent warm air from escaping when they are closed.