If you are planning on building or renovating your house, it’s only a matter of time before you have to make the decision of whether to buy single, double, or even triple glazed windows. However, double and tripled glazed windows cost more than single glazed windows. The question is: are they worth the extra cost?

We believe that providing you with all the information about uPVC window styles, manufacturers, and prices, will help you make the best decision for your home.

uPVC windows are the most commonly used double glazed windows in Canada, and their popularity in the construction industry has increased tremendously over the years. This should not come as a surprise if you consider their benefits, such as low-cost and easy maintenance. 

What Is uPVC Window?

uPVC is the material that the frame of the double glazed windows is made off. This material is based on plastic powder (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, uPVC), which is heated up and injected into a mould in order to form its shape. After it has cooled through different methods, the uPVC is cut and prepared to be assembled in a double glazed window together with the other components.

uPVC is not the only material that double glazed window frames are made of. They can also be made of timber and aluminium. All three materials come with different advantages and disadvantages, but overall, uPVC is the most used. Furthermore, double glazed windows can be produced in many different shapes with a variety of mechanisms (uPVC bay windows, for instance). 

How Do uPVC Windows Work?

What makes the uPVC double glazed windows so functional is the space between the two panes of glass that allow the air to be trapped, which creates the following benefits:

1. This air acts as insulation, thus it does not allow for cold or hot air to easily pass between the inside and outside of the house. 

2. It also prevents condensation from forming inside the house when it’s cold outside and warm inside. 

3. Furthermore, uPVC windows reduce noise pollution by minimising the amount of outside noise that can pass through the glass.

What Are the Advantages of uPVC Windows?

Did you know that owning a house with uPVC windows can increase the value of it? Not only that, but uPVC windows can help with noise reduction, energy saving, and much more, such as making roof window installation possible even on lighter roof structures.

To clearly outline the advantages and disadvantages of uPVC windows, we have listed them below.

1. Low Cost

Compared to the other materials that double glazed window frames can be made from, uPVC windows are the cheapest option. Although this is not even the best part of uPVC windows, it is still an important factor if you are worried about their cost effectiveness.

2. Low Maintenance

Another hugely attractive advantage of uPVC windows is that they require remarkably low maintenance. Other frame materials like timber and wood need to be repainted every 5 years, alongside some refilling and patching because they tend to rot and flake. This is not the case with uPVC window frames. They never flake, rot, rust or fade. All they need is the occasional cloth wipe.

3. Insulation

Insulation is another strong feature of uPVC windows. These windows were created to provide the most optimal heat and energy insulation. Being able to keep the sound and heat out of the house so effectively, is largely responsible for uPVC windows’ popularity.

4. Water Proof

The biggest problem that wood window frames have is the propensity to swell when the weather is damp. This can become dangerous because the glass can loosen up, and furthermore, it can become easier for an intruder to enter your home. Alternatively, uPVC frames are storm and weather proof, since the damp cannot enter through the surface of uPVC windows frames. Hence, they are non-corrosive and will not be eroded by bad weather.

5. Durability

From all the frame materials available for double glazed windows, uPVC is the most durable. Aluminium can pick up rust over time, and wood can rot and warp. uPVC, however, is resilient and though. Thus, you will not have to replace them for a very long time. Some companies even offer a guarantee of 10 years.

6. Security

uPVC is reliable when it comes to security, as well. The way the frame is constructed, it is difficult to break through or be damaged.

7. Style

Double glazed window companies are producing all types of windows to suit any home. You can have coloured uPVC windows in a range of design, styles, and sizes. There was a time when uPVC were only produced in white colour, but there have been many developments in recent years that lead to a wider variety being offered. You can choose from tilt and turn windows, casement, french windows, and even sash windows. Nevertheless, it is important to remember that the more openings a window have, the greater the cost.