UPVC Windows - Double Glazing Links

UPVC Window

UPVC windows are the current ‘must-have’ in the world of double-glazing. UPVC stands for ‘Unplasticised’ (i.e. rigid) Poly Vinyl Chloride. It’s a versatile material ideally suited for constructing both factory-sealed window units and secondary glazing supports and typically comes with a 10 year guarantee.

UPCV is also known as PVC-U and has quickly become the ‘wonder’ substance that double-glazing salesmen have been dreaming of for years. Modern manufacturing processes have reduced costs and demand has gone through the roof. In fact, UPVC windows have proved so popular that they are now fitted as standard.

UPVC windows are easy-to-clean and will not fade or discolour. They are robust and hardwearing (unlike wooden or aluminium windows) and need very little maintenance once in place. Most UPVC windows come in plain white, although they are also available in a variety of wood finishes, such as oak and mahogany.

Many second-generation homeowners are now stripping out their tired old windows and replacing them with gleaming new UPVC units. The current boom in all things DIY-related has encouraged some foolhardy souls to have a go at replacing their windows themselves; something that isn’t recommended. Instead contact one of the established double glazing suppliers (such as Everest and Zenith) and let them take the strain.

UPVC’s other main selling point is that it boasts excellent insulation properties, which means substantially lower heating bills during the long winter months. Salesmen will also be keen to tell you that UPVC is both non-toxic and recyclable, which should quash any lingering environmental concerns. What they won’t tell you is that UPVC is cheap to manufacture and that competition is so stiff that there is plenty of room to negotiate a good price.

The only blot on UPVC’s otherwise untarnished landscape is that local authorities aren’t keen on the stuff. In most conservation areas UPVC is a taboo subject and it’s easy to see why. UPVC windows might add finesse to a suburban-semi, but they will half the value of a Georgian townhouse.

 

 

 

© The Pink Fridge Online Magazine 2008 - Double Glazing

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