An Introduction to uPVC Windows
Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride Windows – or uPVC windows – are a type of window made of rigid plastic.They have become increasingly popular in the construction industry as a cost-effective, durable, and energy-efficient window for domestic houses. They also cost less than their wooden or aluminium alternatives and provide good ventilation and airflow without letting heat escape your home.You can find out more about uPVC windows here.In this blog, we will cover the top benefits of uPVC Windows for domestic homeowners.uPVC Windows are Energy Efficient
One of the most important benefits of uPVC windows is their high energy efficiency rating. The British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) grades windows from an A++ to G, with A++ being the most energy efficient.This rating is based on three core factors:- Thermal Transmittance – also known as the “U value”, this measures how effectively your windows retain heat. The lower the U value, the more efficient your windows are.
- Solar – How well your windows capture heat. This will be a number between 0 and 1 and the higher the number, the more solar-efficient your window is.
- Air Leakage – the “L factor” evaluates how much air escapes and enters the room through your window. The lower the factor, the more airtight your window is.
For a window to be classified as “energy saving”, it needs a minimum grading of a C.
uPVC is an insulating material with low thermal conductivity, making it an energy-efficient choice for your windows. At Highland Homestyle, we are delighted to install uPVC windows with an A+ Rating.Our most advanced windows have been designed to provide optimum insulation and have been fitted with Low E Coatings, warm edge spacer bars, and an inert “Argon Gas” filling between the panes.The more energy efficient your windows are, the lower your energy bills will be as less heat will escape from your house.According to the Energy Saving Trust, by installing A-rated double-glazing windows to a semi-detached gas-heated property that was previously single-glazed, you could save around £120 per year.One of our recent clients in Perthshire is saving £700 a year on their energy bills since installing our most advanced A+-rated uPVC windows.The energy efficiency of uPVC windows ultimately makes your home a more comfortable environment. It is very frustrating to keep cranking up the heating, only for it to escape. With uPVC windows, you will have fewer draughts and cold spots, but you can also easily keep your home ventilated and cool as the weather heats up.uPVC Windows are Durable and Low-Maintenance
uPVC is a UV-stable material that resists discolouration from ultraviolet radiation. As a result, uPVC windows are incredibly robust and can withstand even the most extreme weather conditions. Unlike their wooden and aluminium alternatives, uPVC windows are also moisture-resistant and unlikely to get damp or become corrosive over time. They are also pollution-resistant and don’t allow condensation to build up. This means they will not rot, warp, or decay, and help maintain the structural integrity of your property.uPVC windows have also been designed to be low maintenance. Due to the material used, the finish will not chip or flake away and won’t need to be repainted.The only maintenance required for uPVC windows is a simple cleaning, using a damp cloth, soap, and water to wipe them down.You can find out everything you need to know about maintaining uPVC windows in this blog post.uPVC Windows Reduce Noise
uPVC windows are also known for providing improved sound insulation in your home. As they are airtight, they help reduce external noise from travelling inside.At Highland Homestyle, we install uPVC windows that will reduce outside noise by up to 35 decibels.
This will reduce traffic noises if you live on a busy street or block out any conversations your neighbours have as they walk past your home!uPVC Windows are Highly Secure
uPVC windows are considered some of the most secure on the market for domestic homes. Firstly, uPVC windows are double-glazing, and so have an additional panel of glass that is difficult to break through.uPVC windows are also made using an advanced multi-point locking system. When the handle is turned, several bolts are engaged, which makes the window much more secure than those with single locks.They are also far more difficult to ignite than their wooden counterparts, so they aren’t considered a fire hazard.uPVC Windows are Aesthetically Pleasing
uPVC windows are available in a wide variety of styles, and so can be easily personalised to fit the style of your house.At Highland Homestyle, we fit the following kinds of uPVC windows in domestic homes:- Casement Windows
- Flush Casement Windows
- Tilt & Turn Windows
- Vertical Sliding Sash Windows
All of these windows can be finished in different colours and glass styles. The result will be sleek and modern windows that improve your curb appeal.You can also choose to fit uPVC windows that replicate the look of wooden frames, without the disadvantages of rot, damp, and warping that the traditional frames can bring.uPVC Windows are Environmentally Friendly
Finally, uPVC windows help you to reduce your carbon footprint.Alongside reducing your energy consumption, uPVC is a non-toxic material that can be recycled multiple times at the end of its lifespan.uPVC windows are designed to last, with a lifespan of between 25 and 30 years. As a result, they don’t need to be regularly replaced, which again has a more positive impact on the planet.Conclusion
We hope that this blog has helped you understand the wealth of benefits provided by uPVC windows. uPVC windows are one of the most energy-efficient, environmentally friendly, and customisable solutions on the market for domestic homeowners. They help you maintain a comfortable temperature in your home year-round and reduce your energy bills.Not only that, but they are more durable and less maintenance than wooden or aluminium options, and provide better security and noise reduction.If you are interested in finding out more about installing uPVC windows in your home, we would be delighted to help.Find out more about uPVC windows here, or get in touch and a member of our experienced team will pay a complimentary visit to your home to go through your options.
One of the most important benefits of uPVC windows is their high energy efficiency rating. The British Fenestration Rating Council (BFRC) grades windows from an A++ to G, with A++ being the most energy efficient.This rating is based on three core factors:
uPVC is a UV-stable material that resists discolouration from ultraviolet radiation. As a result, uPVC windows are incredibly robust and can withstand even the most extreme weather conditions. Unlike their wooden and aluminium alternatives, uPVC windows are also moisture-resistant and unlikely to get damp or become corrosive over time. They are also pollution-resistant and don’t allow condensation to build up. This means they will not rot, warp, or decay, and help maintain the structural integrity of your property.uPVC windows have also been designed to be low maintenance. Due to the material used, the finish will not chip or flake away and won’t need to be repainted.The only maintenance required for uPVC windows is a simple cleaning, using a damp cloth, soap, and water to wipe them down.You can find out everything you need to know about maintaining uPVC windows in this blog post.
uPVC windows are considered some of the most secure on the market for domestic homes. Firstly, uPVC windows are double-glazing, and so have an additional panel of glass that is difficult to break through.uPVC windows are also made using an advanced multi-point locking system. When the handle is turned, several bolts are engaged, which makes the window much more secure than those with single locks.They are also far more difficult to ignite than their wooden counterparts, so they aren’t considered a fire hazard.
uPVC windows are available in a wide variety of styles, and so can be easily personalised to fit the style of your house.At Highland Homestyle, we fit the following kinds of uPVC windows in domestic homes:
