The Pros and Cons of Double-Glazed UPVC Windows & Doors
Double-glazed, uPVC windows are a relatively new trend to sweep Australia. PVC windows were first used in Europe in 1940, by the late 1960’s it had established an important market share. Since the 1970’s uPVC has increasingly dominated the US market, now it is the most commonly used window framing material in the U.S.
In Australia uPVC windows were introduced in the mid 1980’s, however they still hold a relatively small market share. Windows are the weakest link in the insulation of the home. With rising energy prices, we can’t ignore this option any longer.
Knowledge about their availability and applications have only started growing as the Australian Government, as well as private builders and developers have spread their awareness. When you hear about what they are useful for, you might wonder why it hasn’t arrived on our shores earlier. There are good reasons for this. In this article, the benefits and drawbacks of double-glazed, uPVC windows will be covered and you will have a greater understanding of whether they are right for you or not.
Double-glazed, uPVC windows have a few key benefits. Along with roofing insulation and pink batts in walls, they are a key source of insulation for the house. What this means is that they can be used to keep heat in during winter and prevent heat from coming into the house in summer. A follow on benefit of this is that you will pay less for your electricity bills in the extreme months. If you don’t have to turn on the air conditioner or the central heating as long, that’s money saved and money earned.
Here are a few more key benefits to add:
uPVC insulated window frames are specifically designed to incorporate insulated double glazing.
uPVC needs virtually no maintenance and has a long life span, will not rust or rot or be effected by termites.
uPVC is engineered to handle severe weather.
uPVC has 57% salt content so is ideal in coastal areas.
Fusion welded construction eliminates drafts and water leaks.
Various glass combinations, combined with the uPVC frame significantly reduce outside noise.
It sounds like double-glazed, uPVC windows are something that should become a regular option when it comes to building a new home. There are some drawbacks for these windows that are preventing them from becoming more widely accepted, though they are nothing to do with the quality of the windows themselves it is usually initial cost, however Affordable Double Glazing have also reduced this cost barrier significantly.
One possible drawback is that you actually do need to completely replace the window in order to have a uPVC double glazed window, however this is hardly a drawback as you get completely new windows that will last a lifetime.
Retro fitting glass is possible in some cases, however it is only a short term patch job which still leaves you with old windows. The energy saving statistics doesn’t even come close to what can be achieved with a full removal and replacement. Affordable Double Glazing only removes and replace, or install into new constructions, we don’t do retrofitting of just glass on its own, and we need to replace the complete frame.
You may or may not want to still have double-glazed, uPVC windows installed now. It’s OK to be undecided. Visit http://www.adg.net.au to learn more about these special windows, how we can help you install them and how we can match it up nicely with your current decor.
To arrange your FREE no obligation quotation please contact us on 1800 822 207.
