If you live in Dorset or Bournemouth, chances are your home has at least a few uPVC windows. They are popular for good reason. They are energy efficient, low maintenance and usually last for years without much hassle. But like anything in the home, they can develop problems over time. A sudden draft. A patch of damp. A window that no longer closes properly. A mysterious drip that appears when the Bournemouth rain comes sideways off the sea.
It is very common for homeowners to assume that a broken or leaking window means the entire frame needs to be replaced. Thankfully, this is rarely the case. Most uPVC window issues can be repaired quickly and cost effectively without replacing the whole frame. The key is understanding what has gone wrong, how severe the damage is and what repair options are available.
In this guide we will walk you through exactly what can be repaired, when a replacement might be necessary, and how to tell the difference. We will also cover the most common causes of leaks and draughts in Dorset homes, why coastal weather can make problems worse, and how professional repairs can add years of life back into your windows.
In most cases the answer is yes. uPVC windows are designed with individual components that can be removed and replaced without disturbing the main frame. Hinges, locks, handles, rubber seals, drainage channels and even the glass unit itself can all be repaired or swapped out.
The frame is usually the strongest part of the entire window. Unless it is cracked, warped or physically damaged, it rarely needs replacing. Many issues that look serious from a homeowner’s point of view are actually caused by a small component failing.
Every uPVC window has drainage slots designed to carry rainwater back outside. If these become blocked with dirt, leaves or even Dorset sand during windy weather, water can build up and leak indoors.
If your window has dropped slightly, even a few millimetres, the seal will no longer meet the frame properly. This causes draughts, rattling and sometimes leaks during bad weather.
A lock that no longer pulls the window tightly into the frame can leave enough space for a leak. This is one of the most common repair jobs in Bournemouth homes.
Here are the main repair options available to Dorset and Bournemouth homeowners.
• Replacement of damaged or worn hinges
• Replacement of rubber gaskets and seals
• Resealing around the frame
• Repair or replacement of locking mechanisms
• Clearing or reworking drainage channels
• Adjustment of dropped or misaligned windows
• Replacement of misted or blown double glazed units
• Replacement of broken handles
• Fixing gaps that cause draughts
• Repairing condensation issues around the edges
These repairs can extend the lifespan of your windows by years. Many homeowners are surprised at how much difference simple adjustments can make.
Replacing a full frame is disruptive, messy and expensive. Repairs are usually quicker, cleaner and more affordable. They also keep perfectly good frames out of landfill, which makes them a much greener choice for Dorset homeowners.
Here are a few benefits of choosing repair work.
• Lower cost compared to full replacement
• Faster appointment times
• No need for plastering or decorating after the work
• Keeps waste out of landfill
• Extends the life of existing frames
• Can improve energy efficiency without replacing the window
In many cases, repairing a uPVC window gives you all the benefits of a new one without the cost or disruption.
Yes. Most leaks come from worn seals or drainage issues and can be repaired easily.
No. You only need the glass unit replaced, not the entire frame.
This is often caused by flattened seals or a dropped hinge.
Absolutely. With new seals, adjustments and minor repairs, old windows can perform almost like new ones.
Simple tasks like clearing drainage holes are fine. Anything involving glass, locks or alignment is best left to a professional.
Most broken or leaking uPVC windows in Dorset and Bournemouth can be repaired without replacing the frame. Repairs are usually faster, more affordable and far less disruptive than homeowners expect. With the right expertise, even older windows can be restored to work efficiently and comfortably.
If you are unsure what is causing your window problem, getting friendly advice from a local specialist like RPS Double Glazing Repairs is always the easiest starting point.