Draught Excluders and Weatherseals for uPVC Windows

Draught excluders and weatherseals are essential uPVC window parts that prevent cold air from entering your home. These replacement window parts keep interiors comfortable by sealing gaps around window frames. At Window Repairs Sutton, we supply and fit these window seals to reduce draughts effectively.

What It Is

Draught excluders and weatherseals, often called weather seals or rubber gaskets, are flexible strips fitted to uPVC windows. They create a tight barrier between the sash and frame, blocking wind, rain, and noise. Common types include wedge gaskets and bubble gaskets, designed for durability in British weather.

These seals compress when the window closes, ensuring an airtight fit. Made from EPDM rubber or similar materials, they resist UV damage and temperature changes. Proper installation restores energy efficiency without replacing entire windows.

How To Identify It

Spot worn draught excluders by checking for cracks, flattening, or gaps when windows are shut. Run your hand along the frame edge; you will feel air leaks if seals are damaged. Discolouration or brittleness from age is another sign.

Inspect the seal’s profile: wedge gaskets have a triangular shape, while bubble gaskets feature a rounded, inflatable section. Remove a small section carefully to check the colour – black or grey is standard for uPVC. If seals are missing entirely, frames may show bare grooves.

Take photos and note window type before contacting us for advice. Our 10+ years experience helps confirm identification quickly.

Compatibility Factors

Not all draught excluders fit every window. They must match your uPVC frame profile, such as casement or tilt-and-turn styles we service. Avoid mismatches with excluded types like sash or sliding windows.

Key factors include:

• Frame manufacturer: Profiles from brands like Rehau, Deceuninck, or Veka require specific seal shapes.
• Window age: Older frames (pre-2000) often use thicker seals than modern ones.
• Operation type: Top-hung or side-hung sashes need seals on different edges.

Public liability insured technicians ensure precise fits. Check your frame’s outer dimensions first.

Measurements That Matter

Accurate sizing prevents poor performance. Measure the groove depth where the seal sits – typically 2-4mm for wedge types, deeper for bubbles.

Width and length are crucial:

• Seal width: Matches frame thickness, usually 5-10mm uncompressed.
• Length: Cut to sash perimeter, adding 10% for corners.
• Lip size: The flange that slots into the frame; too big causes misalignment.

Use a digital caliper for precision. Note multiple grooves per window – one for outer weatherseals, another for inner draught excluders. Our local Sutton team can measure on-site if needed.

Common Naming Confusion

Draught excluders and weatherseals are often mixed up with edge seals or pile seals. Window seals refer broadly, but draught excluders focus on air blocking, while weatherseals emphasise water resistance.

Wedge gaskets sound rigid but are flexible; bubble gaskets aren’t actual bubbles but hollow profiles. Don’t confuse with glazing gaskets, which seal glass units. Clarifying terms avoids ordering errors.

Symptoms It Can Cause

Failing draught excluders lead to noticeable issues. Primary is a draughty window, where cold air whistles through gaps.

Other symptoms include:

• Increased heating bills from poor insulation.
• Condensation buildup as warm air meets cold seals.
• Rattling sashes due to loose fits.
• Water ingress during rain, staining sills.
• Noise from traffic or wind penetrating seals.

Early detection prevents escalation. DBS/CRB checked technicians address these promptly.

Related Repairs

Replacing draught excluders ties into our draught proofing, adjustment and alignment service. We adjust toe and heel settings alongside new seals for optimal compression.

This restores uPVC windows without full replacement. Liability insurance covers our work. Contact us on 020 8138 0796 or info@window-repairs-sutton.co.uk for a quote.

FAQs

What are the signs my draught excluders need replacing?

Feel for air leaks, visible cracks, or flattening. Test by holding a lit incense stick near closed windows – smoke movement indicates gaps.

How long do weatherseals last on uPVC windows?

Typically 10-20 years, depending on exposure. South-facing windows degrade faster from sun.

Can I fit draught excluders myself?

DIY is possible for straight runs, but corners and multi-groove frames often need professional tools. We recommend pros for lasting results.

Do you service wooden or sash windows?

No, we specialise in uPVC casements and exclude sash, sliding, tilt-and-turn, or inward-opening windows.

What’s the difference between wedge and bubble gaskets?

Wedge seals compress firmly for high wind areas; bubble types offer softer, forgiving seals for frequent use.

How much does replacement cost?

Costs vary by window size and quantity. Get a free quote via /contact/.

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