Scratched, scuffed and damaged UPVC windows and doors are among the most common surface damage queries we receive. UPVC is the dominant material for windows and doors across UK housing — and while it’s weather-resistant and low maintenance, it’s surprisingly vulnerable to scratches, scuffs and impact marks. Professional surface repair offers a fast, cost-effective alternative to replacing the affected unit.
How UPVC Gets Damaged
UPVC damage most commonly occurs during moves and renovations — furniture being carried through doorways, ladders resting against window frames, builders brushing against door frames with tools or equipment. Keys and sharp objects leave scratches easily visible against the white or coloured UPVC surface. Dogs and cats can scratch at door frames. Deliveries and bin collections scuff door surrounds. Even cleaning with abrasive materials can leave fine scratches that appear as a dulled, hazy patch.
What Can Be Repaired?
The range of repairable UPVC damage includes surface scratches, key marks, impact scuffs, crayon and paint marks, and minor cracks and splits in the UPVC profile. Deeper gouges that have deformed the UPVC profile or where material has been displaced may require filling before colour matching. Very severe impact damage where the profile has cracked through may require section replacement rather than surface repair — a reputable technician will advise honestly on this.
White UPVC vs Coloured UPVC
White UPVC is the most common and most straightforward to repair — most UPVC is a similar standard white, though shades do vary between manufacturers and age. Coloured and foiled UPVC (grey, anthracite, green, black, woodgrain foil) presents a greater colour-matching challenge. Coloured UPVC is increasingly common as it has grown in popularity over the last decade; experienced technicians carry extensive colour libraries and can match most standard foil finishes. Very unusual custom colours may require more involved colour formulation.
The Repair Process
A technician will clean the damaged area, lightly key the surface, apply filler if required for deeper damage, then build up colour-matched coats of paint formulated for UPVC — this is important, as standard paint does not bond well to UPVC without the correct primer and preparation. The finish is blended at the edges to feather into the surrounding area, and a protective topcoat applied. Most UPVC repairs are completed within an hour.
Cost of UPVC Repair
UPVC door or window scratch repair typically costs £50–£150 depending on the size and complexity of the damage. This compares very favourably with the cost of a replacement window or door unit, which can run to hundreds or thousands of pounds including fitting. Where multiple windows or doors require attention in the same property, technicians usually apply a reduced rate for additional repairs.
Send us photos of your UPVC damage for a free repair quote →
