UPVC, un-plasticized polyvinyl chloride is a type of plastic that is used to make the frames of doubled glazed windows. Double glazing of course refers to the pane construction; two panes of glass separated by an air gap which is filled with either air or an inert gas such as argon. In many cases people select double glazed UPVC windows in Edinburgh as replacements for older, single glass pane units.
UPVC double glazed windows offer a number of advantages; the first is the cost, windows made using UPVC are usually less expensive than other framing materials. Another benefit is the fact that they require next to no maintenance; the material, being plastic does not rot, peel or flake nor do these windows ever need repainting. All that is needed to keep these windows looking as good as the day they were installed is to keep the glass clean and wipe the frame with a damp cloth.
UPVC windows in Edinburgh are also extremely durable. The frames will not bend or warp; this is not necessarily the case with other frame materials. The material is also difficult to break so when coupled with double glazed glass units the assembly make breaking into the home more difficult. Two panes of glass are twice as hard to break through as a single pane and with a frame which is tough; a burglar is often defeated and moves on.
Double glazed UPVC windows are also beneficial in reducing heat loss which translates into lower energy costs. The reason is simple, the space between the panes of glass is an excellent insulator and UPVC material does not transmit heat or cold well, the combination of the two make this window perhaps the most energy efficient window available.
Although UPVC windows do have a number of advantages, they are not with their disadvantages. Although it is rarely an issue, windows made from these sections are not easy to dismantle therefore repair is very difficult. There are also concerns about the manufacturing of the windows having an adverse effect on the environment. To make the frames for double glazed UPVC windows in Edinburgh it can take considerably more energy; up to eight times as much, as it takes to make a comparable wooden frame window. In addition to this the material is not biodegradable and can be difficult to recycle because of the number of chemicals used in the manufacture of the plastic.
Since its establishment in 1981, the Window Advice Centre has become the source of unbiased information on UPVC windows in Edinburgh. The centre takes pride in guiding consumers who are considering UPVC windows for their homes.