PVC is a construction material that is both sturdy and lightweight simultaneously, which is why it is popularly used in windows and doors. Because of plasticizers, it now has a greater range of motion and is less rigid. If no plasticizers are added, it is referred to as “rigid PVC,” which is short for “Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride,” or uPVC.
PVC, which stands for polyvinyl chloride, and uPVC, which stands for unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, are the two categories that vinyl falls into. Vinyl is a chemical substance that may seep into your paint.
Both PVC and uPVC are categories of the same material. Because of their versatility, both materials find employment in the building industry for windows and doors. PVC, on the other hand, is only acceptable for use in siding and fences. uPVC, on the other hand, is an excellent material for use in window and door frames.
Because of their adaptability and versatility, they are often used in the construction industry. This is because they can be formed into any shape. Nevertheless, they each do something unique.
What is PVC?
PVC includes compounds that are hazardous to human health and should be avoided. As a result of phthalates and BPA, PVC has a greater propensity to get discolored and therefore requires specialized maintenance over time to eliminate surface stains.
Because it is difficult to get PVC, it is not a material that is regularly used in window construction in either Europe or the United States.
When heated, PVC gives out fumes that are harmful to humans. These things may cause harm to your health. PVC releases gas when subjected to high temperatures.
The most notable drawback of PVC is the potential for this gas to ill our bodies.
What is uPVC?
PVC does not include any phthalates or BPA in its production. In addition to being an excellent option, it has fewer negative effects on the natural world.
uPVC is a very long-lasting and robust material, making it well-suited for the installation of windows owing to its high thermal efficiency and resistance to fading. uPVC has several benefits, including that it is less porous than other materials, which lowers the required amount of upkeep.
Additionally, its lifetime is quite lengthy and may last several years. In addition, uPVC is a stiff material; it does not bend in any way, it is an exceptionally resistant substance, and finally, it is a material that can be recycled.
What is the Difference Between PVC & uPVC?
The fact that some of them are coated with plasticizers differentiates them from one another: Plasticizers are present in PVC. However, they are not present in uPVC. PVC has become pliable and flexible with the addition of plasticizers, making it an excellent material for toys, wiring, and even clothes. Because uPVC is a rigid and inflexible material, it is most often used for making window frames and water pipes.
On the other hand, PVC has been shown to contain chemicals, namely BPA and phthalates, while uPVC does not. PVC is a porous flexible material that is less durable than uPVC, which is a material that does not need any maintenance. However, a restricted range of colour options is available for both PVC and uPVC.
PVC in windows
Some businesses call their windows “PVC,” an abbreviation for polyvinyl chloride.
In most instances, metal and wooden window frames are being phased out in favor of uPVC window frames due to uPVC’s superior performance in terms of energy efficiency. In addition, uPVC may be fashioned into a door frame or included in conservatory construction.
Benefits of Having PVC Windows
In recent years, there has been a discernible rise in the number of window sales that include PVC. This is because they come with various benefits, like offering energy efficiency. We have highlighted a few more below:
#1. Poly vinyl windows have a low impact on the environment
Despite the widespread perception to the contrary, the manufacturing of PVC windows does not harm the surrounding ecosystem. Since the manufacture of PVC does not result in the emission of any poisonous compounds, this material is far less harmful to the environment than other materials, such as aluminum.
The quantity of plastic used to produce these windows is little compared to the number of years of service you will receive because they are so long-lasting. In addition to that, they readily conform to the regulations for energy efficiency.
#2. Windows made of PVC are very effective insulators
Our houses benefit greatly from the increased acoustic, and thermal insulation PVC windows provide. Because of this, you won’t be troubled by loud sounds outside your house, and shifts will less influence the ambiance of your home in the temperature that occurs outside.
If you effectively insulate your house, you won’t need to spend money or use resources to heat or cool it. The advantages of your new windows will become apparent month after month in the decreased cost of your gas and electric bills.
#3. Robust compared to wood windows
All the windows made from PVC are far more durable than wood windows. When it comes to protecting your house, this is a significant benefit since it means that your windows will be better able to deter prospective intruders and lessen the possibility of accidents. The impact of weather on regular PVC is lesser compared to wood windows.
#4. Maintenance-free
PVC windows are guaranteed to survive for at least half a century. Because they have such a long lifetime, you won’t need to paint them or do regular maintenance. PVC windows, however, need nothing more than an occasional dusting and wipe down, just like any other piece of furniture.
#5. Easy to clean
Cleaning wooden windows require the use of solutions that have been specifically formulated to avoid causing harm to the material. Aluminum follows the same pattern. On the other hand, PVC windows need a moist cloth, water, and some kind of detergent or soap to be cleaned properly. You do not need to purchase any specialized goods.
#6. They are adaptable replacement windows
Even though white is the most common color for these windows, you can buy them in many other colors. You may also get PVC windows with a wood or brick finish, allowing you to blend them with a wide variety of design aesthetics.
You can select from various opening kinds (casement, tilt, sliding, etc.), which means that they are flexible enough to accommodate all of your requirements and let in an abundance of natural light.
There are, without a doubt, a few drawbacks to this. They often come at a large premium compared to wooden windows, particularly if you choose double or triple glazing in your structure.
Myths About PVC
People often need clarification about which windows to choose these days, not just because there is a shortage of information but also because this is even more problematic because there is occasionally inaccurate or unclear information.
The choice between aluminum windows, wooden windows, and PVC windows often confuses people. We concluded that the best way to put an end to all of the misunderstandings and provide an explanation of the most widespread fallacies around PVC windows was to do it ourselves.
#1. Cellular PVC windows are too costly to purchase
The cost of cellular PVC windows is determined by a variety of different elements, including the number of chambers, the profiles that are selected, and the accessories that are selected.
Every year, cutting-edge technologies make it possible for manufacturing to become more efficient and cost-effective. In addition, PVC is the substance that is derived from making doors and windows, and the production procedure for this product is less laborious or pricey than that of its competitors.
Additionally, cellular PVC windows offer energy efficiency and retain warm air inside a building. You might see a decrease in your monthly energy costs of up to fifty percent when winter arrives.
#2. PVC windows have a lower lifespan than other window materials
The British Research Establishment (BRE) has determined that PVC windows have a minimum reference service life (RSL) of 35 years and need minor maintenance. Windows made of PVC’s first generation, which is now 50 years old, continue to work admirably well after this time has passed.
#3. Every PVC window has a conventional rectangular shape and comes in a standard white color
Although this is the most typical shape and color of contemporary PVC windows, it is by no means the only option available. There is a wide variety of other options available.
You are no longer limited to white PVC doors and windows due to technological advances. Instead, you may have doors and windows in colors that complement the color palette of your newly designed house and any shade with an imitation woodgrain appearance. Both the sides
It may be necessary to modify your window to make it fit. There are moments when you have a choice. Due to the extreme flexibility of the materials used in PVC, you can experiment with the shape you want, whether round, arch, or something else entirely, when you place an order.
#4. PVC windows are environmentally harmful and should be avoided
Although uPVC is a synthetic plastic polymer, it is nevertheless a much more secure and environmentally friendly material for making doors and windows than its alternatives. During the production process, chemical compositions are included to thwart the release of any potentially harmful chemicals.
In addition to having a long lifespan, several fire and safety studies have proved that when uPVC is set ablaze, it produces less toxic smoke than other materials, such as wood.
Additionally, PVC windows can be recycled up to one hundred times, reducing the heat you use and making them one of the most environmentally friendly options you can bring into your house.
#5. Over time, PVC profiles will become a yellowish color
PVC has a lengthy and eventful history that may be broken down into various phases. For example, the first profile was made in the 1960s, and a few flows occurred during the initial production stage. One of these flows was the development of yellow on the profiles.
To our good fortune, and of course, in recognition of the efforts of the engineers and technicians, a unique microelement is now being included in every one of the PVC profiles, which will ensure that they remain unaltered for the duration of their useful lives.
#6. Aluminum windows are superior to other materials
The majority of individuals throughout the globe choose PVC windows (48 percent), followed by aluminum profiles (25 percent) and hardwood profiles (27 percent).
To manufacture uPVC, there must be zero pores or spaces for air to pass through between the window and the wall. Aluminum, being a metal, is an excellent heat conductor; as a result, it offers a low thermal insulation level and a high thermal conductivity.
Corrosion, which appears as a white powdery covering on the metal, may be readily caused by aluminum profiles, which rust rapidly.
Over time, these profiles will get damaged and broken, necessitating more regular repairs.
#7. Windows made of PVC need to be regularly maintained
PVC windows do not require any maintenance, but they need to be cleaned, and the accessories and hardware need to be checked and maintained. Despite this, PVC windows are incredibly low maintenance, and the cost to replace or relook at PVC profiles is significantly less than the cost of replacing or relooking profiles made of other materials.
A helpful hint for cleaning PVC windows is to use plain soapy water. They need to be swept twice a month to remove any dust and potential filth, and they will look as good as new.
Final Thoughts
In the early 1980s, the market for windows and doors was swiftly dominated by PVC products due to the material’s stiffness and longevity. Customers were aware of the benefits of this dependable and minimal maintenance PVC window. PVC window frames will not discolor, decay, or distort like wooden ones. In addition to this, old windows do not need to be repainted every few years.
Insulation against heat loss and outside noise is provided very well by PVCu windows, which also help to reduce outside noise to a minimum.
The passage of time has increased the level of sophistication of PVC windows. A vast selection of designs is available, which give the impression of traditional wooden or metal windows yet come equipped with all of the benefits of this contemporary material.
