Different Types of UPVC Windows
What are uPVC Windows?
uPVC stands for un-plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride which is a chemical mixture of carbon, chlorine and hydrogen. uPVC windows are growing in popularity around the world and come in various colors and styles to suit different properties. There are many advantages of installing uPVC windows such as security, insulation, durable and affordable. In this article, we’ll look at benefits and the different types of uPVC windows.
Benefits of uPVC Windows
Energy Efficiency
uPVC windows are very good insulators helping home owners save on their energy bills. Stay warm in winter and cool in summer with uPVC. They look like painted timber but since no trees are used in the manufacturing process, they have relatively less impact on the environment. uPVC is also recyclable and comes with an excellent warranty of 30 years or even lifetime for some brands.
Minimal Maintenance
Wooden window frames require the most maintenance with painting and sanding. Aluminum comes next as they start rusting after a while. uPVC, on the other hand, is not softened by plasticizer chemicals, and is ideal for manufacturing windows because of its properties that prevent rotting and weathering. It is a tough material that requires minimal maintenance and provides good security as the material can’t be easily broken through. They are very affordable compared to aluminum or timber and come in various colors and textures. Cleaning is simple as a wet cloth will suffice.
Besides these advantages, they are cost effective than the other alternatives and are much safer to use and install. Next, we’ll look at the different types of uPVC windows available in the market.
Wide Varieties of uPVC Windows
Fixed Windows
Best for spaces that require no ventilation as there are no openings in fixed windows.
Casement Windows
Unlike sash windows that you can open by sliding the windows up or down, casement windows have hinged openings and they open outwards. Casements are preferred in places where the sash types are difficult to reach.
Scaped Windows
These styles run across the length of the wall. Comparatively expensive but suits in areas with beautiful scenery like country houses.
Sliding Windows
These windows glide from one side to the other with the disadvantage being they are difficult to insulate.
Awning Windows
Having one or more sash types, awning windows swing outwards. These types are good in areas where ample light is required.
Bay and Bow Windows
Bay windows are a popular and stylish option. They are glazed on three sides to catch the light from different angles and some have sash type openings. They are used where there are alcoves just like bow windows with the latter being less angular. Oriel windows are similar to these types but they carry a bracket underneath for support.
Palladian Windows
They are arch shaped at the top. Palladian styles have a double hung single wide window with narrow windows on either side.
Single and Double Hung Windows
Single hung styles open at the bottom but are fixed at the top while double hung windows open at the top. The latter is suitable for houses with small children.
Hopper Windows
The hopper style is actually casement with hinges at the top and bottom. Used in basements for extra ventilation, they don’t go well with window blinds.
Picture Windows
A single large pane window that sits like a painting or portrait. It does not open but let’s in plenty of light.
Rotating Windows
These can opened from the sides or the top or bottom with the biggest advantage being able to clean better than most other types.
Jenny McCarthy is a freelance blogger who writes on home improvements. Jenny enjoys playing tennis.
