Trickle vents are essential parts of windows that reduce condensation and help keep your home well ventilated. With careful planning, you can easily retrofit your uPVC windows for trickle vents.
In this blog, we’ll explore how you can easily install trickle vents within your uPVC windows.
Tools needed to fit trickle vents
- Duct or masking tape.
- A screwdriver.
- A highspeed drill bit.
- A ruler or measuring tape.
- A pencil or marker.
How to fit trickle vents for uPVC windows
Here are a few simple steps you should follow when installing trickle vents for windows:
1. Measure and mark your drilling points
You will need to identify the ideal location on your uPVC window frames for your trickle vents (this is usually at the top). Once located you will need to measure and mark the central point for each trickle vent. You will need to do this on both the inside and outside of your window frame.
2. Prepare for drilling
It’s recommended not to just start drilling into your window frame. Instead, you should add a small bit of duct tape to your drill bit to mark your desired depth before drilling. This will prevent you from drilling too far or damaging the window frame.
3. Start drilling
When drilling you should:
- Use a high-speed metal drill bit that’s suitable for uPVC.
- At each marked point, drill a pilot hole from the inside of the frame. Make sure this is perpendicular to the frame.
- Repeat this for the outside of the window frame. The pilot holes should meet.
4. Smooth and clean the holes
Use sandpaper or a soft cloth to remove burrs or rough edges around the holes. The holes must also be cleaned before the trickle vents are installed.
5. Fit the trickle vents
- Align your trickle vents with the holes.
- Trickle vents should come with their own screws. Screw these through the holes in the trickle vents and into the uPVC frame.
- Tighten your screws to keep the vents in place.
- Re-check the alignment of your trickle vents.
6. Test and adjust if needed
To check whether your trickle vents are fitted properly you should open and close them. When doing this you should double check that you’re happy with the amount of airflow coming through the vents. If you’re dissatisfied you can readjust the screws.
If you’re looking for brand new uPVC windows, Framemaster has you covered. We have a range of uPVC windows in different colours and are here to help you find the right ones. Get in touch with us today to get a free quote.
FAQs
What are trickle vents?
Trickle vents are collapsible air passages at the top of windows or external doors that allow fresh air to come into your home. They prevent excess humidity by allowing it to escape your home.
An update in building regulations of 2022 now means that all new windows need to be fitted with trickle vents as standard.
Do I need trickle vents?
Due to modern homes having much better air tightness compared to older homes, it’s important that they have trickle vents. Without them the air quality at home would be extremely poor, which is linked to an increase in the chances of stroke, heart issues and lung disease.
Many new build homes have mechanical ventilation with heat recovery (MVHR) implemented which offers continuous ventilation while retaining the warmth in your home. When these are installed homes do not need trickle vents.
