Advantages of UPVC
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, is outlined and explained.
Value For Money
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.
Low Maintenance
Another hugely appealing feature of uPVC is that it is remarkably low maintenance. 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. 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/Sound Proofing
Insulation is another feature of the uPVC material that surpasses 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 this ability to keep heat in and sound out is largely responsible for its popularity.
Rot resistant
Upvc is rot resistant. This is a massive advantage because rot can be a big inconvenicence. Upvc is also resistant to corrosion.
Thermal comfort
Upvc is non-conductive, unlike metals. This means its use in window frames doesn’t transfer heat. So, it contributes to a more consistent internal temperature for the building. If you combine double glazing and Upvc window frames it will make for some very efficient windows.
Recyclable
Upvc is recyclable. It can be recycled up to ten times. In places they have been commonly used for the last thirty years, such as Europe, they can be recycled at the end of their life. However, there are very little end of life Upvc windows and doors available at the moment for recycling in Australia, Australian industry programmes are committed to stopping Upvc from going in landfills and putting it back into new products.
Customisable
Most Upvc windows, doors and fascia’s come in white. Although recent developments have meant that homeowners are not limited to one colour anymore. They have many options of styles, shapes and imitation effects for example wood grain. Upvc products can now be tailored to your desired specifications. This means doors and windows will fit perfectly into your property.
Ventilation
If it is Upvc windows they can come in many different window style configurations providing efficient ventilation systems with effective airflow into a room. An effective type is called tilt and turn. This is a two-window arrangement which can open in 2 separate directions providing draft free ventilation. When it is the tilted position inwards how air can escape through the side and top openings while turning the window open fully. This can quickly ventilate the atmosphere of an entire room. This is useful for refreshing or cleaning.