Whether it’s summer or winter, the UK is renowned for some cold weather both in the day and at night. One of the most irritating things is feeling a horrible drought coming from a window or a door.
Draughts not only make your living space uncomfortable, but they can also significantly increase your heating bills. If you’re experiencing this then you need to read this blog because we identify some ways to stop draughts coming from your uPVC windows.
Key tips on how to stop draughts from uPVC windows include:
Inspecting and Replacing Worn Seals
Considering Replacement Windows
Checking for Gaps and Leaks
Installing Draught Excluders
Using Heavy Curtains or Window Treatments
& So Much More
As ever, if you have any questions after reading this or would like to enquire about our uPVC window products and services, then please call us on 0800 612 2127 or use our online contact form.
Inspecting and Replacing Worn Seals
Having worn or damaged seals is probably the number one culprit of draughts in uPVC windows. Over time, much like anything, the seals can wear down from constantly being used so it’s always a good idea to do regular checks to know when to replace them.
If you do this, you will often change them before you even feel a draught coming. Replacing these seals is also pretty cost effective and relatively easy to do making it the perfect solution to draughts. One more bit of advice on this is when you change the seals, carefully remove the old seals and clean the grooves before installing the new ones, this ensures a snug fit to effectively seal out draughts.
Considering Replacement Windows
If your uPVC windows are really old, say over 30 years old, or they’re severely damaged or poorly installed then it’d be no surprise to experience draughts. In these cases it might be time to strongly consider getting replacement windows.Modern windows, particularly uPVC windows are manufactured with clever technology, designed with energy efficiency and insulation in mind. The frames are sturdy and there’s a choice of double or triple glazing which only adds to the list of benefits.
There is the consideration of initial cost to the new windows which we understand but over time, the savings on energy bills will claw some of this back and you will eliminate draughts.
Checking for Gaps and Leaks
Gaps and leaks, no matter how big or small, will contribute towards your draughts. Some are more obvious than others but even if the draught is minimal, it’s still heat loss you’ll be experiencing therefore you’re more likely to put the heating on to compensate. What you could do instead, is do a thorough check of the upPVC window unit to check what the most appropriate course of action is.
Common areas to check include:
The whole outside of the window frames
The part between the window frame and the wall
The edges of the window panes
The window sills and tracks
The glass panels
If you need further guidance on these checks, we’d be happy to help or inspect for you should you get in touch with us here at AWR Home Improvements.
Installing Draught Excluders
Draught excluders, stoppers or seals are a really easy way to prevent draughts from coming in somewhat. They’re effectively strips of material that can be placed below a window or door to act as a barrier against cold air, aka a draught.
They’re not absolutely 100% effective but they do stop most of the cold air from seeping in. To get one, simply measure the length of the window sash or frame and find a draught excluder to size before attaching it securely.
Using Heavy Curtains or Window Treatments
In addition to sealing gaps and leaks, heavy curtains or window treatments can help minimise draughts and retain heat indoors. Thick curtains with thermal lining act as an extra layer of insulation, preventing cold air from entering through the windows and reducing heat loss. Some window treatments are also available that may help with draughts.
Get a FREE Quote or Advice From AWR Home Improvements Today!
Hopefully you’ve found some use in this article with how to stop draughts from your uPVC windows. Being proactive and performing regular checks is always a great habitat to adopt as you may be able to avoid costly repairs or replacements if issues are identified early.
What you do from there is up to you but remember, we are always available to chat here at AWR Home Improvements as we love helping people. We can offer advice or run you through our group of products and services to ensure you never experience draughts again!
Simply get in touch with our expert team and we’ll get to you as soon as we can. Call us on 0800 612 2127 or visit our website where we have a contact form.