Benefits of uPVC Windows
One of the important options that needs to be decided when choosing to install double glazing is the material with which the frames will be constructed. In recent years, the use of un-plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride or uPVC has grown hugely in popularity and is now one of the most recommended and most widely chosen materials used by the biggest double glazing companies. Below the advantages and disadvantages to using uPVC over its alternatives of aluminium, timber, hardwoods and softwoods is outlined and explained.
Cost
One of the factors considered will inevitably be the cost of the materials and this will probably influence decisions one way or the other. When it comes to pricings, however, uPVC is usually the cheapest material on offer after things like aluminium and timber. This is far from uPVC’s greatest attraction, but its relative cost effectiveness is certainly a bonus that makes a difference.
Maintenance
Another hugely appealing feature of uPVC is that it is remarkably low maintenance. Timber and woods generally require a re-paint every 5 years alongside occasional refilling jobs and patching due to their tendency to rot and flake. Aluminium is resilient, but still needs attention every now and then. On the other hand, uPVC never rots, flakes, rusts or fades. Apart from a quick wipe with a cloth to keep it clean, uPVC requires virtually no maintenance making it very convenient and time-saving.
Durability
Un-plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride is also the most durable of the materials available. Woods can rot and start to warp over time and aluminium can pick up rust whereas uPVC is strong, tough and resilient. It is highly unlikely uPVC will need to be changed and some companies even offer up to 10 year guarantees on uPVC double glazing.
Security
Due to its resilient and robustness, uPVC is very reliable and trustworthy when it comes to security. Their frames are constructed to the utmost hardness making it extremely difficult to break through or damage. Aluminium is similarly if not more secure, however, and is considered to be almost totally burglar-proof due to its strength. But uPVC is not far behind.
Insulation
Insulation is another feature of the uPVC material that surpasses woods and aluminium. uPVC was created to be a very competent insulator and provides the best heat and energy insulation available. It is a very good insulator compared to the alternative of aluminium and timber and this ability to keep heat in and sound out is largely responsible for its popularity.
Aesthetics
The major shortcoming of uPVC is undoubtedly its aesthetic value. In many people’s eyes, its simple, white plastic look is far from attractive and some consider uPVC frames to look unstylish or plain when compared to timber and aluminium. With some larger companies, different colours of uPVC are now available, but when replacing windows whilst trying to keep the character of the home, uPVC may not be ideal. In fact, for listed buildings and those within conservation areas, local planning councils would be likely to insist on timber or aluminium frames.