As you approach the winter months, it’s important to start draught proofing your uPVC windows. Chilly draughts not only make rooms uncomfortable but also drive up energy bills. However, keeping your home cosy and efficient is easier than you might think. In this blog, we’ll walk you through simple steps to keep those pesky draughts out and the warmth in.
What causes draughts?
Gaps around your windows usually cause draughts and can occur through damage, dirt or your window dropping.
To identify a draught from your uPVC windows you can run your hand over the window during a windy day as this will clearly show where any gaps are within your window. If the glass in your window is cracked and causing a draught you will need to replace it as soon as possible, to prevent the temperature of your home from dropping and to improve its security.
Install weatherstripping and draught excluder for uPVC windows
When tackling draughts you can implement weatherstripping to prevent rainwater from getting in and uPVC window draught excluder to prevent cool air from escaping your home in the summer. Both are easy to install, with draught excluder being applied to the inner, outer and upper profiles of the window and weatherstripping being stuck around the frames of the window. However, this is only a temporary fix as they will need to be replaced every year.
How to install weatherstripping
- Remove any old weatherstripping. You can use a putty knife to make this easier or use a screwdriver or drill to remove it if it’s screwed in.
- Scrub any sticky residue off with an adhesive remover.
- Clean the window jamb with soap and water and ensure it’s fully dried.
- Measure the top and side of your window frame and cut your weatherstripping to length.
- Apply your weatherstripping to the sides of your window.
- Test that your window opens and closes properly.
How to install a draught excluder
- Remove the old draught shields if your window has any.
- Clean the window frame and sand it with sandpaper to create a smooth surface.
- Separate the bi-adhesive strips.
- Measure the necessary strip length.
- Apply the strips to the inner, outer and upper profiles of the window.
- Test that the window shuts properly and that the protector fills the slots.
- Don’t touch the seal for a few hours to achieve optimum adhesion.
How to adjust uPVC windows to stop draughts
Adjusting uPVC windows is a great way to prevent draughts as you can adjust them to achieve a tighter seal or to ensure they close properly. This also helps you avoid insects and rain getting through.
To adjust a dropped uPVC window you should:
- Carefully remove the glass from your window. Bead removal tools can be used to do this.
- Shut the window and realign the sash so that it fits tightly.
- Reinsert the glass back into the frame and fill the gaps with plastic packers to ensure there’s no movement.
Learn more ways you can adjust your uPVC windows in our blog.
Window maintenance
Keeping on top of your window maintenance will help prolong their lifetime and optimise their usability. By cleaning your window hinges you can prevent them from rusting and therefore becoming unaligned and causing unwanted gaps. If you’re still feeling a draught after properly cleaning your hinges it tends to be a sign of further damage.
When it comes to older uPVC windows, their hinges and locks tend to experience damage. If you can see a gap between the sash and the frame, your hinges are likely to be faulty and should be replaced.
For faulty window locks, the lock or entire window must be replaced as broken or faulty locks can void your home insurance. You can test how well your lock is working by sliding a credit card between the sash and the frame. If the card moves easily and freely, your lock needs tightening or replacing.
Replacing your windows
If you’re feeling draughts throughout your house it may be wise to replace your windows to optimise their security and energy efficiency. While replacing your windows may seem expensive, you’ll see a great return on investment when you sell your home and save money on your heating bills annually.
With over 25 years of experience in building bespoke orangeries, conservatories, garden studios, verandas, extensions, doors and windows across the West Midlands, Framemaster is an excellent choice for upgrading your uPVC windows.
We stay up to date with the latest technology to ensure we’re providing the best window options for your home. Get in touch with us today to start upgrading your windows.