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uPVC vs. Other Window Materials: Which One is Right for You? Jun 21, 2024 By Fenesta

Choosing the right window frames is crucial for ensuring that these essential fixtures perform well for a long time to come. Window frames can be made using a variety of materials, each with its own set of advantages and disadvantages, and choosing the right materials for windows for homes should depend on several aspects. In recent years, uPVC has emerged as one of the most preferred materials for windows, owing to the many benefits offered by the material.

What Is uPVC?

Unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, more commonly known as uPVC, is a kind of rigid plastic that is made without using plasticisers. uPVC is highly durable and requires very little maintenance, which is why it finds application across the construction industry for manufacturing windows, doors, and pipes. uPVC is formulated using the unplasticized polyvinyl chloride polymer, leveraging the flexibility of PVC to create a special blend. As a material for manufacturing window frames, uPVC offers unmatched quality and several advantages, like energy efficiency, durability, and design flexibility. As pigments are integrated right into the profile, uPVC window frames do not flake, fade, warp, or require frequent painting. The installation of uPVC windows is also extremely easy, carried out by professionals, without disrupting your daily routine.

Also Read: How to Choose the Best uPVC Window Manufacturer

Benefits Offered by uPVC

uPVC window frames have been gaining a lot of popularity and widespread acceptance because of the many advantages they offer.

Energy Efficiency

uPVC windows are known for their energy efficiency. These frames create an effective thermal barrier, which helps minimise any heat transfer between the outdoors and indoors.

Durability

The uPVC blend does not corrode, rust, warp, or rot over time, it is resistant to moisture and pests, and it can stand strong under harsh weather conditions as well, when you opt for uPVC window installation, durability is assured.

Less Maintenance Requirements

uPVC windows have very less maintenance requirements. There is no need to repaint or seal the windows regularly, nor do they fade or flake over time. All you need to do is clean them with a mild soap solution and a soft cloth.

Sound Insulation

When the uPVC window profile is combined with double- or triple-glazed glass, it can significantly reduce the amount of external noises that filter inside when the window is closed.

Benefits Offered by Wood

Timeless Style

As a framing material, wood has stood the test of time, bringing timeless appeal to any place.

Easy Maintenance

A new timber window can last for around 50-100 years with minimal maintenance. These windows just need to be refreshed every 8-10 years, based on the weather they are exposed to.

Low Carbon Footprint

Wood happens to be a renewable and sustainable source. It is also a natural insulator thanks to its high carbon storage capacity, which helps reduce the environmental impact of the space.

Aesthetics

Wooden window frames can be painted or stained with ease to keep up with the latest design trends. This ensures that the windows always look fresh.

Benefits Offered by Vinyl

Energy Efficiency

Vinyl delivers outstanding thermal performance, which makes it a desirable framing material. The thermal properties of vinyl help prevent heat loss.

Durability

Apart from its environmental sustainability, vinyl window profiles are more resistant to impact, discolouration, and moisture, ensuring that the window frames do not warp, crack, or blister.

Affordability

As compared to almost all other popular framing materials, vinyl is the most cost-effective option.

Low Maintenance

Vinyl requires very little maintenance, which mostly amounts to occasionally cleaning and dusting the window and window frames.

Benefits Offered by Aluminium

Strength and Durability

Aluminium can withstand extreme weather without discolouration or warping. It is also resistant to rust, decay, and corrosion.

Energy Efficiency

Aluminium windows can help reduce electricity consumption by ensuring excellent insulation and preventing heat loss.

Aesthetics

The sleek and modern appearance of aluminium windows can effortlessly enhance the overall aesthetic quotient of any space.

Eco-Friendly

Aluminium is 100% recyclable and a highly sustainable material. Additionally, the energy that is required to produce aluminium window frames is much less than the energy used to produce windows with other kinds of framing materials.

uPVC Vs Other Materials

uPVC Vs Wood

Wooden windows have a timeless appeal, and their natural aesthetics can effortlessly enhance the charm of any space. However, wooden window frames require regular maintenance, painting, sealing, and moisture-proofing. On the other hand, uPVC is resistant to rot, pests, and weathering. Further, it also offers thermal and sound insulation. Plus, you can also install your uPVC windows with mesh for protection against insects.

uPVC Vs Vinyl

PVC or vinyl windows are quite similar to uPVC windows, with both materials offering excellent durability, energy efficiency, and having low maintenance requirements. However, overall, uPVC is generally considered to be of a higher quality, as it is structurally stronger, which makes it more resistant to impact, thereby providing enhanced security. uPVC windows are also better at insulating the indoors against outside noises and they are not prone to discolouration. While vinyl windows tend to have a lower upfront cost, with the superior long-term performance offered by uPVC window frames, they turn out to be the better choice in the long run.

uPVC Vs Aluminium

Aluminium and uPVC window frames are both known for their durability and energy efficiency. Additionally, aluminium windows are also known for their sleek and contemporary appearance and minimal sight lines. Aluminium windows are also sturdy yet lightweight, and they have high impact resistance. When it comes to choosing between uPVC and aluminium windows for homes, the choice can be made based on individual preferences, budgets, etc. For example, aluminium window frames are significantly thinner than uPVC frames, which can be more aesthetically pleasing for some people, while others may want the finish and colour flexibility that comes with uPVC window frames.

Also Read: 5 Things to Know About Aluminium

When comparing windows made using uPVC profiles to windows made using other materials, it is easy to see that uPVC emerges as the clear winner. Its many benefits and the properties of the material make it one of the best choices for homes and offices. At Fenesta, you can explore a wide portfolio of high-performance uPVC windows that are available in a range of styles and designs. These world-class windows have strong insulation properties and can withstand extreme tropical climates. Fenesta also offers comprehensive end-to-end service, which includes everything from selecting the right window design, site survey, and custom manufacturing to delivery and installation of the window.