uPVC (Un-plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride) windows and doors have become increasingly popular in the last 10 years or so throughout the UK because they are offer some key advantages over other more traditional materials like wood, including:

-Energy efficiency

-Security

-Cost

-Maintenance

-Energy Efficiency

uPVC windows and doors provide excellent insulation throughout the winter months and also help keep your house cooler in summer. This is due to them offering more effective thermal insulation than wood or timber whilst reflecting the heat of the summer sun, helping you stay comfortable all year round. This also helps to reduce the household’s energy costs considerably, which is a very welcome benefit for those feeling the effects of rising gas prices in the UK. And when you do eventually replace your uPVC windows, they can be easily recycled, making them an environmentally friendly product from start to finish.

Maintenance

Wood frames need regular maintenance in the form of painting, sanding and refilling. As a natural product, they also have a tendency to rot and decompose, especially when exposed to damp conditions for extended periods of time. Aluminum frames are very resilient in comparison, but they do have a tendency to rust over time. uPVC windows are, on the other hand, incredibly durable and easy to maintain. Being made from a plastic compound, they are far less prone to damage from the elements and can be cleaned quickly and easily with a damp cloth and some mild detergent.

Cost

As well as the ongoing energy savings arising from reduced heat loss, the initial outlay for uPVC windows can be much cheaper than you might think. In many cases they are now actually cheaper than wood or aluminum frames, mainly thanks to advances in manufacturing technology. This means that local, independent manufacturers companies can offer competitive pricing with the advantage of a more personal service over large companies.

Security

uPVC is now considered to be on a par with a rigid and sturdy aluminum frame in terms of security. Wood doesn’t even come close in comparison as they can be broken through or damaged with relative ease. A chain is only as strong as its weakest link though, so your windows’ security relies on the quality of the lock you use. Combining a uPVC frame with a sub-standard locking system will therefore not provide you with the full benefits that uPVC has to offer. For this reason you should ensure that you use a highly secure multi-point locking technology, such as that offered by Era-Vectis to maximise your properties defences against a break in.

Summary

The benefits of choosing uPVC over traditional materials like wood or aluminum for your homes windows and doors should be evident from this article. They offer a more cost effective option in the short and long-term, are environmentally friendly from start to finish and require little maintenance, making them perfect for those with a busy lifestyle. All you need to decide now is where to get your new uPVC windows and doors from!

Author Bio: REP Glass in Leeds manufacture, supply and install quality uPVC Windows, Doors and Conservatories.

Category: Home Management
Keywords: windows,doors,upvc,conservatories,leeds,west yorkshire