uPVC Renovations

The term uPVC is known as Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride, and this is a low-maintenance material used as a substitute that is mainly used for window frames, sills, installing double glazing in new property builds, replacing time worn single glazed windows and doors, it also has many other uses for fascia and sidings or weatherboarding. uPVC is the same material that has almost today replaced the use of cast iron that is mainly used for plumbing and drainage which is used for waste and drain pipes, guttering and downpipes, these products are normally referred as “Roofline” in the home improvement industry

uPVC, PVC-U or PVCu is there a difference?

It can be confusing when looking up uPVC and seeing it written in different formats, and in theory there is no difference between these spellings and it really doesn’t matter where the letter “U” is whether it is capitalised or not.       The term PVC-U is the most common in Europe where as in the UK it is known as uPVC and this is best to describe the material due to the noun is place before the adjective (in this instant the noun is PVC). When it comes uPVC and PVC with no letter “U” there is a difference, PVC is the term for Poly Vinyl Chloride which is a synthetic plastic and there are two types rigid and flexible, both of these have to be softened beforehand in order to be manufactured in to a variety of products such like clothing and bags, the letter “U” in PVC-U or uPVC in the UK stands for un-plasticised meaning it has not been softened during the manufacturing process and is therefore rigid and appropriate for different products like Windows and Doors

Is it a good option to have uPVC?

It is good to know for homeowners that uPVC is basically a cheaper alternative option to have instead of expensive hardwood timber aluminium products which makes it a very popular material due to its durability and low-cost effective option. uPVC has amazing strength, versality and has very low maintenance which comes from being manufactured using vinyl polymer that is bound to chlorine atoms, with windows and door frames not being plastic it means this can work well with steel and homeowners won’t have ongoing costs occurring. It must be noted that currently all uPVC windows and doors must be energy rated to conform with Building Regulations, if you are looking for energy efficiency then uPVC is the choice to take, as energy rated uPVC doors and windows are thermally efficient and they have very low thermal conductivity due to the materials used in the manufacturing process, this will stop heat from escaping the property compared to some other building materials

Some of the of the other key benefits of using uPVC are;

• uPVC is Customisable– with uPVC products being manufactured and tailored to any desired specifications, this means that windows and doors will out fit your property perfectly
• Great for Security– uPVC exceeds expectations due to its ultra-light but sturdy frame and used in conjunction with multiple locking combinations and with double glazing pane of glass it makes it a great security product to have to stop any intruder from gaining entry to your property
• Very Eco Friendly– The normal life span of uPVC can range between 25 to 80 years and is made from mostly recyclable material to sustain a minimal but long term impact on the environment.
• Property Insulation– With uPVC being energy efficient, the materials used in the manufacturing process will impact the warmth and window energy rating of your property saving you money in the long term.
• uPVC has very low maintenance– Doors and Windows being made from uPVC can last for a long time without any sign of weathering, the only upkeep that is needed would be to wipe down and clean with soapy water which prevents any staining and removes dirt and grim.
• It’s very Durable– uPVC material is very tough which means the frames are able to cope against the elements and is not affected by any type of rot or corrosion which can be advantageous for properties that will be located near the coast where high salt content can be problematic.
• Great for ventilation– Windows and Doors can come in various style configurations which provides for an efficient ventilation system with effective airflow throughout the property
• Weather Resistant– With most exterior materials weathering is a common problem on properties, but with uPVC weathering is not a problem at all as it doesn’t react with water or air and is not susceptible to the natural elements
• Soundproofing usage– uPVC can also work as soundproofing alongside with double glazed window panels it helps decrease the amount of background noise that can pass in to your property
• uPVC is Fire Retardant– UK Building regulations state and require all units for windows and doors must be made from materials that are fire rated to prevent external fire from spreading, uPVC is also a material that required by UK Building regulations to be Fire Retardant meaning it will keep