Chalky, grey, streaked uPVC fascias, soffits and window frames are one of the most common complaints we hear on doorsteps across the North East, and the first question is almost always the same: is it worth restoring, or should I just pay for new? uPVC restoration cost sits a long way below full replacement, and in most cases a proper clean and reseal brings the plastic back close to its original white.
This guide sets out what restoration actually costs, what you get for the money compared with ripping out and replacing, and where a clean genuinely can't save the material and new uPVC is the honest answer.
Typical uPVC restoration cost
For an average semi-detached house, professional uPVC restoration (fascias, soffits, gutters and window frames) typically runs from around £150-£350, depending on how much uPVC there is and how bad the oxidation and algae staining have become. A larger detached property with extensive fascia and soffit boards can run higher, particularly if cherry picker access is needed on a two-storey gable end.
That price usually includes a soft wash or hand clean with the right chemicals to lift oxidation film, algae and general grime, followed by a UV-protective seal or restorer product on the fascias and window frames to slow the greying down. Compare that with full uPVC fascia, soffit and window replacement, which commonly starts around £2,000-£4,000+ for a typical semi and climbs steeply for bay windows, dormers or a full house re-window.
Why uPVC goes grey and chalky in the first place
uPVC is UV-stable but not UV-proof. Years of sunlight break down the surface layer of the plastic, a process called oxidation, which leaves a fine chalky powder on the surface (you'll see it as a white residue on a cloth if you wipe it). Add in algae growth on north-facing or shaded elevations, plus general road grime and airborne pollution, and white uPVC installed ten or fifteen years ago can look almost grey.
The good news is that oxidation is mostly cosmetic. It doesn't compromise the structural performance of the frame or fascia board, which is why a restoration clean, rather than replacement, resolves the appearance problem for a fraction of the cost.
When restoration works well
If the uPVC is dirty, algae-streaked or chalky but structurally sound, hardware still operates, no warping, and no deep yellowing that's gone beyond surface level, a professional clean and restorer treatment typically restores 80-95% of the original appearance. This is the sweet spot for restoration and it's what most fascias, soffits and window frames in this region actually need.
We'd always recommend a proper soft wash rather than aggressive pressure washing or scrubbing with abrasive pads. High pressure can etch the surface, drive water behind trims and joints, and actually accelerate future dirt pickup because a roughened surface holds grime more readily.
When you genuinely need to replace instead
Restoration won't fix cracked or warped boards, failed double glazing units (that misty look between panes), rotten timber behind the uPVC trim, or deep yellowing where the plastic itself has degraded rather than just picked up surface film. If a fascia board is bowing away from the roofline or window frames won't seal properly, that's a joinery and glazing job, not a cleaning one.
A decent contractor should tell you honestly at the quote stage if what you're describing sounds like a replacement issue rather than a cleaning one, rather than take the job and hand back a wash that doesn't fix the underlying problem.
Frequently asked questions
Related guides
Get Your Free Quote!
Enter your details below and one of our experts will be in touch to discuss the work needed and give you your free no-obligation quote.