uPVC Windows
Complete Guide To Selection, Types And Installation Of uPVC Windows Used For Home Improvement DIY Projects
uPVC windows are considered one of the most preferred type of window that is widely used in various home improvement projects, modern homes and buildings. uPVC stands for unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, which is a rigid and highly durable strong material that is commonly used to construct window frames.
These windows offer many advantages as compared to traditional material used for windows such as wood, steel, and aluminum. uPVC is type of polymer based plastic material that is known for its durability, energy efficiency, weather resistant, light weight and low maintenance requirements. In this article, we will provide a detailed overview of uPVC windows, including their features, benefits, drawbacks, and maintenance tips.
uPVC windows have many unique features that make them a popular choice for homeowners and builders alike. Firstly, they are highly durable and long-lasting, as they are resistant to weathering, rotting, and corrosion. Further, they are energy-efficient and can help reduce heating and cooling costs by preventing heat loss in the winter and heat gain in the summer. They are also low maintenance and do not require regular painting or sealing, unlike traditional wooden windows.
These windows are now available in wide range of architectural styles, designs and colours which make them aesthetically pleasing as traditional wooden windows, and match the style of older or historic buildings. However, uPVC is not biodegradable and that is a limitation.
The uPVC material is a type of plastic material and therefore, in order to improve its structural strength, steel sections are used concealed inside the uPVC sections. The steel section reinforcement inside the window uPVC section helps to significantly impart strength to large size windows.
These windows are very easy to maintain and do not need any regular maintenance work such as painting and frequent lubrication. However, to ensure the longevity and smooth operations of uPVC windows, it is essential to keep the them clean.
Depending upon the type of window and fixtures, the maintenance might include regular cleaning and lubrication of the window tracks, as well as inspecting the sealant and weatherstripping for signs of wear and tear. Proper maintenance can help prevent issues such as air leakage, water infiltration, and reduced energy efficiency.
In summary, uPVC windows are a durable, energy-efficient, and low maintenance choice for modern homes and buildings. The leading brands of uPVC windows offer wide range of product types , design options, colours and other features. In the following sections of this article, we will provide a more in-depth look at the features, benefits, drawbacks, maintenance tips and different types of uPVC windows available in the market.
What Is uPVC Material?
uPVC stands for unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, which is a type of plastic material that is widely used for constructing doors, windows, pipes, and other building materials. Unlike traditional PVC, uPVC is not softened by the addition of plasticizers, which makes it more durable, long-lasting, and resistant to wear and tear.
uPVC is a popular material choice for building applications because it is lightweight, easy to work with, and has good insulating properties. It is also resistant to weathering, UV radiation, and chemical exposure, which makes it ideal for outdoor use. uPVC is available in a range of colors and finishes, and it can be easily recycled at the end of its life cycle, making it an environmentally friendly option.
uPVC Doors And Windows
Features Of uPVC Windows
uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) windows are popular choices for many homeowners, thanks to their durability, security, and low maintenance requirements. They are made from a rigid, plastic material that is resistant to rot, corrosion, and weathering. Some of the key features and benefits of UPVC windows are as under:
1. Durability
uPVC windows are known for their exceptional durability. They are resistant to various weather conditions and do not warp, rot, or corrode like traditional wooden doors. Here are some key factors that contribute to the durability of uPVC windows:
uPVC is a strong and rigid material that is resistant to impact, abrasion, and other forms of wear and tear. It does not rust, corrode, or degrade over time.
2. Low Maintenance
Low maintenance is another notable feature of uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) windows. Unlike traditional wooden windows that require regular painting or staining to maintain their appearance, uPVC windows do not require any painting or staining. The color and finish of the door are built into the material itself, which means they won’t fade or peel over time.
Further, uPVC windows are incredibly easy to clean and require only a damp cloth and mild detergent. They do not need any special cleaning products or treatments, making them a low-maintenance option.
These windows are highly resistant to stains and scratches, which means they will retain their appearance over time with minimal effort. uPVC windows have a long lifespan, typically lasting for up to 20 years or more with proper care and maintenance.
3. Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a key feature of uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) windows, and is one of the reasons why they are so popular among homeowners. Here are some reasons why uPVC windows are energy-efficient:
uPVC windows are excellent insulators, helping to keep your home warm in winter and cool in summer. They are designed to prevent heat from escaping in winter, and to keep heat out in summer, which can reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint.
Further, these windows are designed to withstand extreme weather conditions, including rain, wind, and sunlight. They are resistant to moisture and do not absorb water, which helps to maintain their insulation properties.
 Some uPVC windows are available with Low-E (low-emissivity) glass, which has a special coating that reflects heat back into your home, keeping it warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
These doors are fitted with seals and gaskets that help to prevent drafts and air leaks, which can contribute to energy loss. The doors are available in a range of energy ratings, which provide information about their insulation properties. The higher the energy rating, the more energy-efficient the door is.
4. Security
uPVC windows are made from a strong and durable material that is resistant to impact and damage. They are difficult to break or force open, which makes them a good choice for security-conscious homeowners.
Further, these windows are typically fitted with multi-point locking systems that provide additional security. These systems lock the windows at several points along the frame, making it much more difficult to force open.
If the windows includes glass panels, it is typically toughened to make it more resistant to impact and breakage. This can help to deter burglars and provide an additional layer of security.
These windows can be fitted with a range of security features, including anti-snap cylinders, security handles, and reinforced panels. These features can help to prevent forced entry and make the door even more secure.
5. Aesthetics And Elegance
uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) windows are available in a wide range of aesthetic designs, colors, and finishes, making them a versatile option for homeowners who want to achieve a specific look or style.Â
uPVC windows come in a variety of designs and styles, including panel doors, glazed doors, and composite doors. They can be customized with different glass options, decorative panels, and hardware, allowing you to create a unique and personalized look.
Further, these windows are available in a wide range of colors, including classic white, black, and wood grain finishes. Some manufacturers offer custom colors to match your specific design preferences.
These windows can be finished with a variety of textures and finishes, including smooth, matte, and high-gloss. This allows you to achieve a specific look or feel, depending on your preferences.
uPVC windows have a clean and modern look that can add elegance to any home. They are sleek and low-maintenance, making them a popular choice among homeowners who want a stylish and functional windows.
6. Noise Reduction
uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) windows have excellent noise reduction properties, making them an ideal choice for homeowners who want to reduce external noise pollution and create a quieter and more comfortable living environment.Â
These doors are designed to be excellent insulators, which means they can help to reduce noise by creating a barrier between your home and the outside world. They are designed to prevent heat from escaping in winter, and to keep heat out in summer, which can also help to reduce noise.
Further, these doors are typically designed with a multi-chamber profile, which helps to absorb sound and reduce noise pollution.
Further, uPVC windows are fitted with seals and gaskets that help to prevent drafts and air leaks, which can contribute to noise pollution. These seals and gaskets also help to create a tight seal around the window, reducing noise even further.
The windows can be fitted with double or triple glazed glass, which provides additional noise reduction properties. The extra layer of glass helps to absorb sound and create a quieter environment.
7. Eco-Friendly
uPVC windows are recyclable and can be repurposed into new products, making them an eco-friendly option. Overall, these windows offer a range of features that make them a popular choice for homeowners looking for a durable, low-maintenance, and energy-efficient door that provides excellent security and aesthetic appeal.
uPVC Doors And Windows
Top uPVC Windows Brands
The uPVC windows quality, lifespan and product finish depends upon many factors such as quality of the raw material, fixtures and fittings used, production technology, brand reputation and after sales service. Most reputed brands offer both uPVC doors as well as windows and other products used in the building industry.
  These brands offer a range of uPVC doors with different designs, styles, and features suitable for various residential and commercial applications. It’s always a good idea to research and compare the products and services offered by different brands before making a purchase decision.
Top uPVC Door Brands In Europe
Top uPVC Door Brands In India
- Fenesta
- YashPoly
- Koemmerling
- VEKA India
- Window Magic
- LG Hausys
- Rehau
- Aluplast India
- Encraft India
- Cora Windows
- Okotech