How to Adjust uPVC Windows to Stop Draughts?

Is your home feeling cold, even after using your central heating? Chances are that draughts from your windows might be causing heat loss. With over 15 years of experience fitting and maintaining windows across Essex, we’ve learned a thing or two about tackling window draughts.

We’ve put this blog together to go through some practical solutions that could help you stay warmer and save on your heating bills.

Why Do Draughts Occur?

Various factors can cause draughts, including natural wear and tear, misalignment over time or poor installation. While it might seem like just an annoying breeze, draughts can seriously impact the energy efficiency of your home. They force your heating to work harder, pushing up your bills and increasing your carbon footprint. Draughts can also create condensation issues, which might lead to mould growth and damage to your window frames and walls.

This means that addressing draught problems isn’t just about staying warm; it’s about protecting your home’s longevity, maintaining its value and looking after the health of those inside.

Spotting the Source of Your Draught

Before you can fix a draught, you need to find exactly where it’s coming from. Here are some effective ways to check:

Visual Inspection

Sometimes, simply studying your windows is enough to spot an issue, you should look for:

• Visible gaps between the window and frame
• Signs of wear or damage on window seals
• Condensation between panes of double glazing
• Windows that don’t close properly

The Candle Test

On a windy day, slowly move a lit candle around your window frame. If the flame flickers and moves, you’ve found your draught spot. This simple test can help you pinpoint exactly where cold air is entering your home.

The Paper Test

A clever way to check your window’s seal is to close your window on a piece of paper. If you can pull the paper out without it tearing, your window isn’t creating a proper seal. Try this test at various points around your window to identify problem areas.

DIY Solutions for Draughty Windows

There are several fixes you can do yourself if you suspect your windows are producing a draught.

Checking and Replacing Window Seals

The rubber seals around your window can perish or come loose over time, compromising your window’s ability to create a tight seal. Replacing these is often a quick fix that can make a big difference. Start by running your hand along the seal to feel for any obvious gaps or damaged areas. New seals can be purchased from most hardware stores and can significantly improve your window’s performance.

To replace them, carefully remove the old seal by gently pulling it from its groove, clean the channel thoroughly, and press the new seal firmly into place starting from one corner. Make sure it sits snugly in the groove all the way around without any stretching or compression.

Adjusting the Window Hinges

Older uPVC windows often don’t close properly, and the hinges could be the issue. Open your window fully and locate the adjustment screws on the side of the window. Using a screwdriver (normally a Phillips head screwdriver) or an Allen key, make small adjustments. Test the window’s closing action after each adjustment to ensure you’re moving in the right direction. Sometimes, a quarter turn is all that’s needed to achieve proper alignment.

Realigning Dropped Windows

A dropped uPVC window can cause gaps and poor alignment. Check the height of the window in relation to the frame and adjust the friction stays on the hinge side of the window. Ensure proper alignment before tightening all screws. A window that’s dropped even slightly can create significant draught issues, so taking the time to realign it properly is worth the effort. If a window has dropped then it’s likely that the window lock position is out of place, which could compromise its security

Weatherstripping

Adding weatherstripping to your windows effectively improves insulation and creates a tighter seal against draughts. Start by thoroughly cleaning the surface to ensure the weatherstripping adheres properly. Measure carefully, then cut the material to the exact size needed for a snug fit. Press it firmly into place along the entire length, ensuring there are no gaps or loose sections that could compromise its performance.

When to Call a Professional

Regular maintenance can extend the longevity of your windows and resolve draught issues, but there comes a point when it’s a good idea to get professional assistance. Here are clear signs it’s time to call in a professional window specialist:

• Your windows are more than 10 years old and showing multiple signs of wear
• DIY repairs haven’t solved the draught problem after several attempts
• You notice structural issues with the window frame, such as warping or rotting
• There’s misting or condensation between the panes of double glazing

Attempting complex repairs without proper expertise can sometimes cause more harm than good.

Is It Time for New Windows?

Sometimes, installing new uPVC windows is the most cost-effective long-term solution. While repairs and adjustments can extend the life of your windows, there comes a point when replacement offers better value.

At Double Glazing Essex, our A-rated energy efficient windows are designed to improve your home’s comfort and appearance. Each window features multi-chambered frames specifically engineered to create excellent insulation. Combined with our high-performance double glazing and multi-point locking systems, these windows create a better seal that keeps warm air in and cold air out.

Available in a range of styles, from classic uPVC casement windows to authentic-looking sash windows, we can offer you the style you desire while delivering modern performance benefits. All our windows are virtually maintenance-free, requiring occasional cleaning to keep them looking their best. Plus, with their robust construction and quality materials, they’re built to last for decades.

Don’t Accept Draughts

If you’re tired of fighting with draughty windows and want to explore upgrading to our modern, energy-efficient windows, we’re here to help. With nearly 15 years of experience serving Essex homeowners, our expert team can assess your current windows and provide honest, practical advice about whether repair or replacement is your best option.

The best way to see and use our products is by visiting our showroom. You can find this at 101 London Road, South Benfleet, SS7 5TG.

For more information, you can call us on 01268 424 904, email us at sales@doubleglazingessex.com or use our online contact form.

Whether you need a simple adjustment or a complete window replacement, we look forward to helping you.