Why uPVC Is the Easiest Reglaze
uPVC frames use a clip-in bead system that makes sealed unit replacement straightforward. No putty, no pinning, no drying time. Remove the beads with a stiff putty knife or dedicated bead removal tool, lift out the old unit, clean the rebate, set toe-and-heel packers, place the new unit, and snap the beads back in. An experienced fitter completes a standard window in 15-25 minutes.
Common Unit Thicknesses for uPVC
20mm (4-12-4) — Older uPVC systems, typically pre-1995. Slim rebate frames. Still widely encountered in social housing and older installations.
24mm (4-16-4) — The most common domestic configuration. Fits virtually all standard uPVC frames from 1995 onward.
28mm (4-20-4) — Increasingly standard in newer frame systems. Better acoustic and thermal performance due to wider cavity.
32mm — Triple glazed units or enhanced double glazed with thick panes. Requires a deeper rebate — check before ordering.
36mm — Premium triple glazed specifications. Only fits deep-rebate commercial or modern high-performance uPVC systems.
Upgrading Old uPVC Glass
The single biggest opportunity in uPVC reglazing is specification upgrading. Most uPVC windows installed before 2010 contain basic clear glass with air fill — a U-value of approximately 2.8 W/m²K. The frame itself can accept a much better unit:
Low-E softcoat + argon fill in the same 24mm thickness delivers 1.1 W/m²K — a 61% reduction in heat loss with zero frame modification. The customer gets warmer rooms, lower energy bills, and reduced condensation. Your cost difference per unit is modest; the customer's benefit is dramatic.
Gasket and Packer Replacement
While the glass is out, inspect the glazing gaskets (rubber seals that sit between the glass and frame). Degraded gaskets cause rattling, draughts, and water ingress. Replace them — they're cheap and easy to fit while the beads are off. Toe-and-heel packers should also be checked and replaced if crushed or missing. Proper packing ensures the unit weight is distributed correctly and the window operates smoothly.

