Draughty Window Repair — Hinges, Seals & Handles Fixed in Dublin & Wicklow
At P Fahy Glazing Ltd, we fix draughty windows by repairing or replacing worn hinges, seals, and handles — restoring your windows to full airtight performance. If you feel cold air coming through your windows, or notice condensation and rattling when the wind blows, our expert glaziers can identify the cause and provide a long-lasting solution.
We carry out professional draughty window repairs across Dublin and Wicklow, helping homeowners and businesses reduce heat loss, lower energy bills, and enjoy warmer, more comfortable rooms — without the cost of full window replacement.
What Causes Draughty Windows
Over time, even good-quality windows can start to let in cold air. This usually happens when small gaps form between the frame and the sash, or when the closing mechanism no longer compresses the seal tightly.
Common causes of draughty windows include:
Worn or bent window hinges that stop the sash from closing flush.
Perished rubber seals that have shrunk, cracked, or lost flexibility.
Faulty handles or locking points preventing full closure.
Poor alignment or frame movement caused by temperature changes and settlement.
General wear and tear in windows more than 10 years old.
Even the smallest air leak can lead to significant heat loss and condensation, particularly in older homes. Fortunately, most draught issues can be repaired quickly and affordably — without replacing the full window.
For a more detailed explanation on why windows get draughty click here.
Signs You Have Draughty Windows
Draughts aren’t always obvious — most begin as tiny gaps you can’t see around seals, hinges, or handles. Over time, they let in cold air, moisture, and noise, making rooms harder to heat and less comfortable. If you’ve noticed any of the signs below, your windows are likely losing insulation and could benefit from professional window draught repair or sealing.
Cold Air Around Windows or Frames
If you feel a chill near closed windows, the seals or hinges have likely weakened, leaving invisible gaps that leak heat. Resealing and hinge adjustment stop the airflow and restore insulation immediately.
Windows Whistling or Rattling in Wind
A whistling noise on windy days means air is passing through loose seals or warped hinges. Tightening hardware and fitting new compression seals prevents movement and keeps your home quieter and warmer.
Window Handles Feel Loose
Loose handles reduce pressure between the sash and the frame, allowing cold air to slip through the locking edge. Fitting new espagnolette or cockspur handles ensures a tight, airtight close every time.
Windows That Don’t Sit Flush
Misaligned hinges can make one side of the window sit slightly open even when closed. Realigning or replacing hinges restores a uniform seal, improving insulation and preventing further wear on moving parts.
Visible Gaps Around the Frame
Seeing light or daylight through window edges confirms seal failure or hinge distortion. Professional resealing closes these gaps completely, improving both insulation and noise reduction.
Water Leaking Through Windows
Water ingress often means the external seals or drainage channels are blocked or failing. Cleaning, resealing, or replacing perimeter gaskets restores full weatherproofing and prevents further leaks or damp damage.
Outside Noise Getting Louder
If you’ve noticed more street or traffic noise lately, your acoustic insulation has weakened due to failed seals or loose fittings. Restoring airtight closure reduces sound transmission and heat loss.
Windows are Hard to Close
If your windows feel stiff, catch when closing, or won’t lock smoothly, the hinges or locking mechanism may be out of alignment. This prevents the sash from sealing tightly, allowing subtle draughts around the frame.
The Benefits of Fixing Draughty Windows
Repairing draughty windows is one of the simplest and most cost-effective ways to improve home comfort and energy efficiency.
After repair, customers typically notice:
Warmer, more comfortable rooms
Reduced heating costs and energy waste
Improved sound insulation
No more rattling or whistling in windy weather
Windows that open, close, and lock properly again
These small repairs also extend the lifespan of your existing windows — avoiding the expense of full replacement.
Our Draughty Window Repair Process — Simple, Clean, and Efficient
We make it easy to identify and fix window draughts without disruption. Here’s how our repair process works from start to finish:
1. Free Assessment
We visit your home or business anywhere in South Dublin or Wicklow to inspect your windows, identify the cause of the draught, and check the condition of hinges, seals, and handles.
2. Clear Quotation
You’ll receive a transparent quote outlining exactly what needs to be repaired — with no hidden fees and no obligation to proceed. We then organise a time and day to carry out the work at a time of yor choosing.
3. Professional Repair
Our glaziers carry out precise repairs or replacements on the affected hinges, seals, or handles. Every job is completed cleanly, with minimal disruption and no frame damage.
4. Final Testing
Before we leave, we test every window for airtight closure and smooth operation. All draught repairs are backed by our workmanship guarantee for long-lasting performance.
Window Seal Replacement — Restore an Airtight, Weatherproof Fit
The rubber seals around your windows form the first barrier against draughts, condensation, and heat loss. Over time, these seals can harden, shrink, or split — leaving small, unseen gaps that allow cold air to enter and warm air to escape. Our glaziers carefully remove worn or perished seals and fit new compression or bubble gaskets precisely matched to your window system. Fresh seals restore full airtightness, prevent future moisture ingress, and help maintain a consistent indoor temperature — extending the lifespan and efficiency of your windows.
Window Handle Replacement — Secure, Tight, and Fully Sealed
Loose or broken window handles often stop the sash from closing tightly, leaving tiny gaps that let in cold air and moisture. A quick handle replacement can completely transform how your windows close and seal. At P Fahy Glazing Ltd, we supply and fit high-quality replacement handles and locking mechanisms for uPVC, aluminium, and timber windows, ensuring smooth operation and full compression of the seals. Every handle is fitted securely and tested to confirm an airtight, draught-free close — restoring comfort, insulation, and security to your home or business in Dublin and Wicklow.
Replace Your Old Window Hinges To Fix Draughty Windows
Over time, window hinges can bend, corrode, or lose tension, causing small gaps that let cold air and noise through even when the window looks closed. This is one of the most common causes of draughty windows in Irish homes. By replacing worn hinges with new, correctly aligned friction hinges, our glaziers restore a perfect seal between the sash and frame. The result is a smoother-closing window that feels solid, secure, and completely airtight — without the need to replace the full unit. All hinge replacements are fitted cleanly with no damage to plaster or paintwork, ensuring a fast, affordable fix for draughty windows across Dublin and Wicklow.
Why Getting Your Draughty Windows Fixed Is Important
Professional draught repair offers more than warmth — it improves comfort, efficiency, and extends the life of your windows. Here’s why it’s worth doing before considering full replacement:
Lower Heating Bills and Energy Use
Even small window gaps lead to significant heat loss over time. Sealing those leaks helps rooms retain warmth so your heating system runs less often. Professional draught repair can noticeably reduce heating costs while improving comfort and energy efficiency across your home.
Improved Comfort and Temperature
Fixing draughty windows removes cold spots and uneven heating. Properly sealed windows keep rooms consistently warm and comfortable through the colder months. They also prevent valuable heat from escaping, creating a more energy-efficient home environment.
Extend the Life of Your Windows
Repairing hinges, seals, and handles prevents unnecessary strain on frames and hardware. Regular maintenance extends the lifespan of your windows, avoiding costly replacements later. With proper repairs, your windows stay secure, efficient, and low-maintenance for many years to come.
Smoother, Easier Window Operation
When hinges or seals wear down, windows can become stiff or difficult to close. Realigning hinges and replacing worn parts restores smooth movement and proper sealing. This makes windows easier to use every day, reduces strain on fittings, and ensures a tight, draught-free close every time.
Get in Touch to Fix Your Draughty Windows
Book a free callout anywhere in Dublin or Wicklow and find out exactly what’s causing your window draughts. Our glaziers will inspect your hinges, seals, and handles, then provide a clear, no-obligation quote to fix the issue — restoring warmth, comfort, and efficiency to your home.
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Draughty Windows FAQ — Common Questions from Homeowners
If you’ve noticed cold air, cold spots, or windows that no longer close tightly, you’re not alone. Below are the most common questions homeowners ask about window draughts, repairs, and sealing. Each answer explains the causes, solutions, and benefits of professional draught repair — helping you understand exactly how to keep your home warm, quiet, and energy efficient. Read more about draughty windows here.
Can draughty windows be repaired, or do they need to be replaced?
Yes — in most cases, draughty windows can be fully repaired without replacing the frames or glass. Draughts usually come from worn rubber seals, loose hinges, or handles that no longer pull the sash tightly closed. Replacing or adjusting these components restores the airtight seal and insulation. Only severely damaged or warped frames typically require full replacement.
How do I know if my windows are letting in draughts?
You may notice cold air movement near closed windows, whistling sounds, or curtains moving on windy days. Condensation, cold spots, or rising heating costs are also common signs. If you feel a chill around hinges or handles, your window is likely losing heat through small gaps. A professional inspection quickly confirms where the draughts are coming from and what needs to be repaired.
Why do draughts happen even when the windows look fine?
Most window draughts come from tiny gaps you can’t see. Over time, seals harden and shrink, hinges shift slightly, or handles lose pressure. Even a 1–2 mm opening can allow constant cold air to enter. These issues are common in older uPVC and aluminium windows, especially those over 10 years old, but can all be repaired without replacing the entire unit.
How much does window draught repair cost?
Costs depend on the number of windows and what needs fixing — for example, replacing a few worn seals is cheaper than fitting new hinges. Most domestic draught repairs are simple, affordable, and completed in one visit. At P Fahy Glazing Ltd, we provide free callouts and quotations across Dublin and Wicklow before any work begins.
Can you fix draughts in double glazing or triple glazing?
Yes. Draughts usually come from the frame components — not the glass itself. Whether you have double or triple glazing, we repair and reseal hinges, gaskets, and handles to stop air leaks. If your glass units are also misted or failed, we can replace them at the same time for a full energy-efficiency upgrade.
Will draught proofing make my home more energy efficient?
Absolutely. Proper draught repair can significantly reduce heat loss and help your home retain warmth longer. By preventing warm air escaping and cold air entering, your heating system runs less often, lowering energy use and bills. It’s one of the simplest and most cost-effective energy upgrades available for existing windows.
Are draughty windows a sign of failed seals?
Often, yes. Window seals naturally deteriorate over time due to sunlight, moisture, and movement. When they lose flexibility or crack, air and moisture can pass through. Replacing those seals restores the airtight barrier and helps prevent further damage, condensation, or mould around the frame edges.
How long does it take to fix window draughts?
Most draught repairs are completed in a single visit, depending on the number of windows and the type of work required. Our glaziers work cleanly and efficiently, repairing hinges, seals, or handles without disturbing plasterwork or frames. Larger commercial properties may take longer, but all jobs are scheduled for minimal disruption.
What areas do you cover for window draught repair?
We provide draught repair and window sealing throughout Dublin and Wicklow, including Rathfarnham, Dundrum, Cabinteely, Tallaght, Shankill, Blackrock, Bray, Greystones, Delgany, Kilcoole, and surrounding areas. Our glaziers offer free callouts and quotations anywhere within these regions.
Do you offer a guarantee on draught repairs?
Yes — all draught repairs carried out by P Fahy Glazing Ltd are backed by our workmanship guarantee. We ensure every hinge, seal, and handle is properly fitted and tested for airtight performance. Our goal is to deliver long-lasting comfort, warmth, and reliability in every repair we complete.
How often should window seals or hinges be replaced?
Typically every 10–15 years, depending on exposure and window quality. Windows exposed to direct sun, salt air, or heavy weather may need maintenance sooner. Regular inspection and timely seal replacement prevent draughts and extend the lifespan of your existing windows.
Can window draught repair improve security?
Yes. Windows that close and lock tightly are not only more energy efficient — they’re more secure. Repairing handles, hinges, and locking mechanisms ensures each window closes flush against the frame, eliminating weak points that could be forced open from outside.
Is window draught repair messy or disruptive?
Not at all. All work is completed cleanly from inside the property with no damage to plaster, paintwork, or frames. Our glaziers protect the area, carry out the repair, and leave the window fully functional and spotless before finishing.
Can I prevent draughts from returning in the future?
Yes — regular maintenance helps. Keep window tracks clean, check that seals remain flexible, and avoid over-tightening handles. If you notice stiffness or air movement, a quick adjustment or seal replacement prevents the issue from worsening. We can also schedule periodic inspections for older properties.