uPVC versus traditional materials: what are the benefits?

When considering any kind of building or maintenance work on your home, it is extremely important to do some background research into the different types of materials available on the market which will best fit your requirements. In this article, we discuss the main pros and cons of UPVC and traditional materials, so you can decide which option is right for you. Within the last 20 years, developments in manufacturing have prompted an increase in the popularity of a stylish and effective alternative material called uPVC – a plastic material widely used in the building industry for doors, windows and conservatory installations. It is often used as a substitute for painted wood, mainly when fitting double-glazing in new buildings or to replace older single-glazed windows. This material has almost entirely replaced the use of cast iron for plumbing and drainage used for waste pipes, drain pipes and gutters. Aesthetic Benefits A popular choice for its aesthetic attributes, timber is a sophisticated style with design features that can create a traditional or contemporary feel, fitting in with both old homes and modern buildings. A wooden finish won’t fade or discolour and can be updated easily with a fresh coat of paint or stain, whether you are redecorating the interior or simply fancy a change. uPVC and timber are both easy to repair and maintain, however, wood can be freshened up whenever you want – it only requires a quick wipe down and a coat of the correct paint to prolong life. Although changing the style with a lick of paint is not an option on UPVC material, as the popularity of uPVC has grown, the range of available colours has progressed significantly from the traditional white. Not only are there many different colours available in UPVC now, it is also possible to have a variety of finishes, such as a wood grain look resembling more of a traditional appearance. Environmental Benefits Environmentally, timber is a natural insulating material with an increased thermal efficiency over uPVC. It is the only truly sustainable building material, emitting less carbon dioxide in the manufacturing process than its manmade rivals. Unlike uPVC, timber is carbon neutral, fully recyclable and biodegradable, and has been publicly endorsed by Greenpeace as the greenest choice of window materials. A main advantage of uPVC doors is that they are much stronger than traditional wooden doors due to the way they are constructed. They have a core of galvanised steel which makes them extremely hard to break down, providing greater security than traditional wooden doors. Most uPVC doors are also anti-crowbar so they cannot be forced open. uPVC doors maintain their original shape despite varied weather conditions, making it an extremely durable material. This highlights the major problem of warping when using wooden materials. In a largely damp climate such as the UK, the wood is exposed to damp conditions and, in the process, may swell and change shape. With over 34 years’ experience in providing double-glazing, Victory Windows specialise in first rate uPVC windows, doors and conservatory installations at highly competitive prices throughout Coventry and the nearby areas. Our experienced team are with you from start to finish, offering professional advice to help you choose the perfect design and fit to meet your requirements. So for further information, don’t hesitate to call our friendly team at Victory Windows today.

For more information on uPVC versus traditional materials: what are the benefits? talk to Victory Windows International Ltd