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uPVC or unplasticised Poly Vinyl Chloride is type of plastic containing chlorine. It is called ‘rigid vinyl’. uPVC windows and doors are fitted as standard in many construction projects in the USA and the UK. It is the material of choice because it stands up to bad weather much better than traditional timber frames and it is cheap. This article will look at the pros and cons of installing uPVC windows.

The Pros

• uPVC is a lightweight material that is easy to install.
• uPVC windows don’t swell and crack in wet, hot and dry weather extremes. It is easy to maintain and it is easy to clean.
• uPVC window frames come in all colors including photo realistic wood finish.
• uPVC sash, bay and French window styles are all available. Because uPVC frames come in all styles and shades they can be made to fit into any architectural situation so as to blend with the overall look of the building.
• uPVC doesn’t shrink or swell in extreme weather so is suitable as a window frame material to hold double, triple or insulated glazing. Glazing prevents thermal loss so it helps to reduce your energy bills. In some situations having uPVC double glazing can save you up to 20% on your heating bills.
• uPVC windows are much harder for burglars to force open. Unlike timber frame windows that are often easy to pry open.
• uPVC windows can last up to 30 years. Unlike wood frame windows they don’t need repairing and repainting every two years.

The Cons

• uPVC windows and doors have been banned from public building constructions in some states in America and in some parts of Europe because in the event of a fire the uPVC gives off highly toxic dioxins when it combusts.
• Chlorine is a very dangerous chemical to use in commercial manufacturing processes. There have been several cases of health problems associated with people who live near or work in factories making PVC products.
• uPVC is difficult and expensive to recycle. Much of the disused uPVC in the world goes to landfills where it leeches chlorine and other poisons into the ground. Also landfill fires are common occurrences. If burnt, uPVC produces a thick, noxious, polluting gas.
• Timber frames although high maintenance can outlast uPVC if they are regularly repaired and repainted.
• It is very hard to beat the beauty of wood. It just looks and feels right. Wood is timeless in its appeal.

The arguments are strong on both sides. Timber frames require us to chop down trees and place a strain on the environment. At the same time, uPVC pollutes when it is made and when it is discarded. One thing you can do before buying uPVC windows is to ask the dealer how uPVC is disposed of in your area. Perhaps the company have a recycling program. On the other hand if you opt for timber window frames ask if the wood is from a sustainable forestry project.