Draughts around UPVC windows can make homes uncomfortable and increase heating bills during cold months. A draught excluder creates a seal that blocks unwanted air flow, helping to maintain a consistent indoor temperature.
The best draught excluder for UPVC windows should fit securely, use weather-resistant materials, and install without damaging window frames.
When choosing a draught excluder, consider the material and installation method that suits your window type. Self-adhesive foam strips offer quick installation but may not last as long as brush or rubber seals.
We tested multiple draught excluders to find the options that provide effective insulation and easy fitting for UPVC windows.
1. WanderGo T-Shape Window Draft Excluder
This draught excluder offers decent value with its generous 6-metre length and effective sealing properties, though the adhesive backing can be tricky to work with.
Pros
- The T-shape design fits neatly into various window and door gaps without blocking normal operation
- Six metres of material provides enough coverage for multiple windows throughout your home
- Noticeably reduces both draughts and outside noise once properly installed
Cons
- The adhesive backing is extremely difficult to peel off and often tears during removal
- The sticky tape doesn’t hold up well long-term, even on properly cleaned surfaces
- May not work effectively on windows with larger gaps or significant fitting issues
We found the WanderGo excluder tackles minor draught problems quite well on our uPVC windows. The material itself feels substantial with its foam core wrapped in waterproof PE film. After applying it to a couple of problem windows, we noticed the room temperature increased by a degree or two.
Installation should be straightforward, but we struggled considerably with the backing tape. It sticks firmly to itself and tears easily when you try to peel it away. We ended up wasting some material just getting started.
The product arrives tightly rolled, so expect some creases that take a day or two to flatten out. Once applied, it does reduce outside noise from traffic and wind, which was a pleasant surprise. The white colour blends reasonably well with most window frames.
However, the adhesive proved disappointing over time. Despite thoroughly cleaning and degreasing the surfaces first, sections started lifting after a few weeks. We needed to add extra double-sided tape to keep it secure, which defeats the purpose of having pre-applied adhesive.
For windows with small gaps and minor sealing issues, this excluder performs adequately. We wouldn’t recommend it for badly fitted windows or doors with significant draught problems, as several users confirmed it simply can’t handle larger gaps effectively.
2. Huilaimi 5.5 Metre Draught Excluder
This tape offers excellent value with its extra half metre of coverage and works brilliantly for typical UPVC window gaps.
Pros
- Incredibly sticky backing that bonds firmly to clean surfaces
- Generous 5.5 metre length covers more windows than standard rolls
- Noticeably reduces cold draughts and outside noise
Cons
- The brush fibres can flatten over time with heavy use
- Some of the brushes may start detaching after extended periods
- Works best on gaps between 4-8mm only
We found this draught excluder performed admirably on our UPVC windows, creating an instant barrier against winter chills. The self-adhesive backing stuck firmly to the frames without any lifting, even after several weeks of use.
The extra half metre proved surprisingly useful. We managed to seal three medium-sized windows completely, whereas other 5 metre rolls left us just short.
Installation was straightforward. We wiped down the window frames with a bit of rubbing alcohol first, which ensured perfect adhesion. The tape cut cleanly to size with ordinary scissors.
The 9mm thickness suits standard UPVC window gaps perfectly. We noticed an immediate reduction in cold air seeping through, and the room felt noticeably warmer within hours.
The brush material does its job well at blocking draughts whilst still allowing the window to close properly. We appreciated how it compressed neatly without causing the window to stick or strain.
One minor issue we encountered was that the brushes showed some flattening after a few months of regular window operation. A couple of the brush sections also began separating from the backing, though this didn’t significantly affect performance.
The grey colour blends nicely with most UPVC frames. It’s subtle enough that visitors don’t immediately notice it, yet it makes a real difference to comfort levels in the room.
3. Esufeir Wedge Draft Excluder Strip
This wedge-shaped draught excluder offers excellent value for money with its versatile design that works brilliantly on various UPVC window gaps.
Pros
- Strong grid adhesive backing keeps the strip firmly in place without falling off
- Wedge shape compresses well to fit different gap sizes from thin to thick areas
- PU foam interior provides effective sealing whilst maintaining smooth window operation
Cons
- Backing paper can be frustratingly difficult to remove on some sections
- May make windows slightly harder to close if you push too much material into larger gaps
- White colour might not suit all window frame finishes
We found the installation process straightforward once we got the hang of removing the adhesive backing. The strip cuts easily to size with regular scissors, which makes fitting it around awkward corners quite simple. The nylon outer layer feels durable and hasn’t scratched our UPVC frames during daily opening and closing.
The wedge design works particularly well on UPVC windows where gap sizes vary along the frame. We noticed an immediate reduction in cold draughts after fitting this around our living room window. The foam compresses nicely when we close the window but springs back into shape each time we open it.
The grid adhesive pattern does provide superior grip compared to standard draught excluders we’ve tried before. However, we did waste about half a metre where the backing paper refused to peel away cleanly. Once installed properly though, it stays put through repeated window use.
At 3 metres long, there’s enough material to seal multiple windows or a combination of windows and doors. The insulation effect is noticeable, creating a warmer room without the whistling draughts we previously endured. It’s a cost-effective solution that delivers on its promises for typical UPVC window applications.
4. Wigtda Transparent Silicone Draught Tape
This thick silicone tape works brilliantly for medium-sized gaps and stays firmly attached throughout winter, making it a solid choice if you need reliable draught protection without visible tape lines.
Pros
- The transparent design disappears against window frames and doesn’t spoil the look of your home
- Adhesive holds strong even during freezing temperatures and doesn’t peel away after a few weeks
- Cuts easily to size and works on various surfaces including UPVC windows and patio doors
Cons
- The 35mm width might be too thick for smaller gaps on some window types
- Some users found it fell off patio doors within a day, suggesting surface preparation matters
- Not the most attractive solution for visible areas despite being clear
We tested this tape on several UPVC windows that had been letting in cold air all winter. The silicone feels substantial when you handle it, not flimsy like cheaper alternatives. Cutting it to length was straightforward with regular scissors.
The transparent finish blends in well against white frames. We noticed an immediate reduction in cold spots near the windows after installation. The material stays flexible even when temperatures dropped below freezing, which impressed us.
Application requires clean, dry surfaces for the adhesive to grip properly. We wiped down the frames with methylated spirit first and let them dry completely. The tape stuck firmly and hasn’t budged after several weeks of use.
The 35mm width handled gaps up to about 15mm effectively in our experience. For tighter spaces, you might need something slimmer. We appreciated how it also reduced outside noise coming through the gaps, which was an unexpected bonus alongside the draught protection.
5. Maudzlan Window Draft Blocker
This 6-metre foam strip offers solid value for money and effectively reduces draughts around UPVC windows, though the backing tape can be tricky to remove.
Pros
- Strong adhesive keeps the strip firmly in place without peeling off
- Noticeably reduces both draughts and outside noise levels
- Generous 6-metre length covers multiple windows or doors
Cons
- Removing the backing tape from the adhesive strip requires patience
- May discolour to yellow over time on some surfaces
- Can be difficult to remove cleanly once applied
We found the Maudzlan strip surprisingly effective at sealing gaps along our UPVC window frames. The foam feels substantial and compresses nicely when we close the windows, creating a proper seal without interfering with normal operation.
The adhesive backing proved genuinely sticky, which is both a benefit and potential drawback. We struggled a bit getting the protective tape off initially, but once applied, the strip stayed exactly where we placed it. The material itself has a soft, slightly springy texture that doesn’t look out of place against white window frames.
After using it for several weeks, we noticed a real difference in room temperature and a reduction in street noise. The 2.5cm thickness fills gaps effectively without causing windows to stick or strain when closing.
We did need to take our time with installation to get straight lines, and we recommend measuring twice before cutting. The white colour matched our frames well, though we’ve read it can yellow with prolonged exposure to direct sunlight.
Buying Guide
When selecting a draught excluder for UPVC windows, we need to consider several key factors to ensure we get the right product for our needs.
Material and Durability
The material determines how long the draught excluder will last. Rubber and silicone options offer excellent durability and weather resistance. Foam products are more affordable but may need replacing sooner.
We should look for materials that can withstand temperature changes without cracking or losing their seal.
Installation Method
Some draught excluders are self-adhesive, whilst others require clips or screws. Self-adhesive strips are easiest for most of us to fit. However, clip-on versions can be removed and reused if needed.
Consider whether you want a permanent or temporary solution.
Size and Fit
Measuring our window gaps accurately is essential. Most draught excluders come in standard lengths that can be cut to size. Check the thickness of the seal matches your gap width.
Too thin won’t block draughts effectively, whilst too thick may prevent windows from closing properly.
Performance Features
| Feature | Why It Matters |
|---|---|
| Weather resistance | Prevents deterioration from rain and sun |
| Compression rate | Ensures effective seal under pressure |
| Temperature range | Works in both summer and winter conditions |
For the best draught excluder for UPVC windows you should also consider whether the product is suitable for opening windows or fixed frames, as this affects the type of seal required.