UPVC Windows: A Complete Guide for Homeowners
AAre you looking to upgrade your windows or replace the existing ones? Then, you must consider buying uPVC windows. These are a popular window option, offering numerous benefits. But precisely what are uPVC windows, their benefits, how to buy the right ones and what are the types of uPVC windows? Let’s answer all these questions in this comprehensive guide for homeowners.
What is uPVC Windows?
Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC) is a robust plastic material with widespread applications across windows and doors. Although it appears similar to PVC, it is different from the regular PVC. uPVC does not contain plasticizers. Hence, it is a more ensuring and sustainable window material. Speaking of uPVC windows, they come in various types and offer numerous benefits. While looking at the advantages later, let’s look at uPVC window types first. Some types include the following.
- Casement Windows: These are hinged on one side and open outward or inward, offering better ventilation and allowing more natural light inside the room. They suit most types of homes.
- Tilt and Turn Windows:These windows can open inward in two ways, tilting for ventilation or turning for full opening. These are easy to clean and provide diverse airflow control.
- Sliding Windows:These windows can open inward in two ways, tilting for ventilation or turning for full opening. These are easy to clean and provide diverse airflow control.
- Fixed Windows:These windows are fixed and allow maximum light inside. You can use these with other window types.
- Bay Windows: Bay windows comprise three or more windows projecting from the house’s exterior wall, creating a bay-like appearance inside the room.
- Combination Windows: As the name suggests, combination windows combine two or more types like fixed and casement or fixed and sliding. These offer more flexibility in terms of design and functionality.
Benefits of uPVC Windows
uPVC windows offer a range of benefits, making them ideal for different types of residential setups. Let’s look at some advantages of uPVC windows.
- Durability: uPVC is resistant to rust, rot, and corrosion. Hence, they endure diverse weather. They don’t peel, warp, or require repainting more often.
- Thermal Insulation: uPVC windows control interior cooling and heating conditions. These reduce heat gain during summers and on the other hand, prevent heat loss during the cold season. Thus, they can also curb electricity costs by up to 40 percent.
- Optimal Ventilation:uPVC windows with tilt and turn design open in both directions, enabling maximum ventilation. Accordingly, you can curtail the use of ventilation systems and drive energy savings in the long run.
- Maintenance Ease:These windows also do not require frequent or extensive maintenance. Cleaning them also is pretty straightforward. You can wipe the surface with a wet cloth and restore the original shine.
- Recyclability:uPVC windows are a sustainable choice. Unlike wooden windows, you can recycle them many times given their strength and endurance.
- Acoustic Properties:The windows also exhibit sound insulation properties. They have multi-point locking systems and precision-engineered seals that reduce gaps and prevent noise leakages.
How to Buy the Right uPVC Windows?
While selecting the correct uPVC windows, here are some crucial factors to consider.
- Security:Security is the foremost consideration. So, you must check that the window frame is reinforced with galvanized steel, windows with welded joints, profile thickness for a minimum of 2.5 mm, and a multi-point locking system.
- Designs and Styles: The window design and style also matter when selecting one. You must go through the various types of window designs and styles that match your home’s architecture, ventilation needs, lighting conditions, etc.
- Hardware:While choosing hardware, you must look for corrosion-resistant hinges, locks, and handles to ensure longevity and strength.
- Energy Ratings:These ratings define their energy efficiency. Accordingly, you should look for windows with high energy efficiency ratings of A or A+.
Tips to Maintain uPVC Windows
Maintaining uPVC windows is simple and quick. Here are some tips.
- Frame Cleaning:The frame should be cleaned every two to three months with a soft cloth or sponge with warm soapy water. You must avoid abrasive cleaners or pads that can scratch the window’s surface.
- Glass Care:Clean the glass with a mixture of water and vinegar for a flawless shine. Wipe the glass with a lint-free cloth to avoid damage to the glass.
- Lubrication: Lube the hinges, locks, and handles every six months to a year to ensure smooth and seamless operations.
- Drainage Hole Cleaning: Check the drainage holes at the frame’s bottom. Clear debris with a thin brush or small stick to prevent the buildup of water.
- Check and Replace Seals: Inspect the rubber seals periodically for wear, damage, or cracks. Replace the seals if required to ensure proper insulation.
Leverage Premium uPVC Windows with Winsquare!
Winsquare is one of the leading uPVC windows manufacturers in Maharashtra and comprehensive support system. Our manufacturing scope includes uPVC windows of various types to serve different residential designs and needs. Please connect with us at dhiraj@winsquare.in to learn more.