Why is there a draught coming from my VELUX window?

A VELUX roof window should help bring daylight and ventilation into a room without making the space feel cold or uncomfortable. If you can feel a draught around the window, it is worth checking what is causing it.

Some draughts are linked to normal ventilation settings. Others can be caused by worn seals, poor closure, age, movement, damaged parts or a window that is no longer performing as it should. AR Windows can advise whether your window needs maintenance, repair or replacement.

Is it definitely a draught?

The first step is working out whether cold air is actually coming through the roof window or whether the glass and surrounding area simply feel cold. Roof windows are exposed to outside temperatures, so the area around them may feel cooler during winter.

It may be a draught if:

• you can feel moving air around the frame
• the room feels colder near the window
• the issue is worse in windy weather
• the window does not seem to close tightly
• there is noise or whistling around the window
• curtains or blinds move slightly near the opening

If the issue is only a cold surface rather than moving air, the cause may be different. Condensation, glazing performance and room ventilation may also need considering.

Common causes of a draughty VELUX window

A draught can come from several places. The most common causes involve seals, operation, age, ventilation or the way the window closes.

Common causes include:

• worn or flattened seals
• a window that is not closing properly
• loose or worn hinges
• handle or locking problems
• age-related movement or wear
• poor alignment
• ventilation settings being misunderstood
• general deterioration in an older roof window

The right solution depends on whether the issue is minor and serviceable or part of a wider problem with the window.

Could it be the ventilation flap?

Some VELUX windows have ventilation features that allow airflow even when the window is closed. This can be helpful for fresh air, but it can also be mistaken for an unwanted draught.

If the cold air seems to be coming from the top section of the window, check whether the ventilation flap or setting is open. Only do this if the window is safe and easy to reach.

When can maintenance help?

If the window is generally in good condition, maintenance may help improve operation and identify why the draught is happening. Sometimes a window becomes draughty because it is no longer closing as cleanly as it should.

Maintenance may help if:

• the window still opens and closes reasonably well
• the draught is mild or recent
• the window has not been serviced for some time
• there are no obvious leaks or major damage
• the issue may be linked to operation or alignment

You can learn more about VELUX maintenance and planned servicing through AR Windows.

When is a repair more likely?

A repair may be needed if the draught is caused by worn components, damaged seals, poor closure, loose mechanisms or parts that are no longer working properly.

Repair may be needed if:

• the window does not close properly
• the handle or lock feels loose
• the window is stiff as well as draughty
• the seals look worn, damaged or flattened
• there is whistling or movement in windy weather
• the problem keeps coming back

AR Windows can advise on VELUX repairs and whether a targeted repair is likely to be suitable.

When should a draughty VELUX window be replaced?

If the window is old, worn, inefficient or has several problems at once, replacement may be the better long-term option. Repairing one part of a failing window may not solve the wider issue.

Replacement may be worth considering if:

• the window is old and repeatedly causing problems
• the glazing has failed or misted
• the frame, seals or mechanisms are badly worn
• the window is draughty as well as leaking or stiff
• repair costs are becoming poor value
• you want better comfort, reliability and appearance

For older or inefficient roof windows, a full replacement roof window can sometimes offer better value than ongoing repairs.

Can draughts lead to condensation?

Draughts, poor sealing, cold surfaces and ventilation issues can all affect how a room feels and how moisture behaves. In some cases, a draughty or ageing roof window may also be associated with condensation or misting concerns.

If you are seeing moisture as well as feeling cold air, it is worth noting when it appears and whether it can be wiped from the inside surface of the glass.

What should you send before asking for advice?

Clear information can help AR Windows understand whether the draught may be linked to operation, seals, ventilation or age.

Helpful information includes:

• photos of the full VELUX window from inside the room
• close-up photos of seals, handles or visible problem areas
• a photo of the VELUX product code if safe to access
• whether the draught is worse in wind, rain or cold weather
• whether the window opens and closes properly
• whether there are leaks, misting or stiffness as well
• the approximate age of the window if known
• access details if the window is high or difficult to reach

Do not climb, lean out or force a stuck window to take photos. Send what you can safely access.

Final thoughts

A draught from a VELUX window should not be ignored, especially if it is recurring or making the room uncomfortable. The cause may be simple, but it may also point to worn seals, poor closure, age-related wear or a repair issue.

AR Windows can help you understand whether your roof window needs maintenance, repair, servicing through an Annual Service Contract or replacement.