UPVC Windows
If you’re considering getting a new window, or even a new door, it may be time for you to look at UPVC, as you'll find the benefits worth it.
What is a UPVC window?
UPVC windows were designed as an alternative to wooden ones, in the same way that UPVC doors were intended to replace old wood doors.
It is made from plastic that has been “unplasticised”!
A UPVC window starts life off as a resin. When additives are combined, this resin becomes polyvinyl chloride – or PVC for short. One of these included additives is a plasticiser, which gives PVC its flexibility.
However, when this plasticiser is NOT added, the material is unplasticised – as so we have “Unplasticised PVC”, a.k.a. UPVC (also known as PVCU). This allows the final product to be rigid.
The UPVC profile is shaped by means of extrusion - casting and stretching the mixture into shape while it is molten - and then the mixture is cooled down to become rigid and tough. Finally, sections of this profile are joined together to create a window of the right size.
It is an alternative to timber frame windows
UPVC was intended as a cheap replacement to traditional timber, and with time has been adapted to address the needs for better insulation and resilience against the ever-changing British weather.
Why should I get UPVC windows?
More than just a replacement to wood, UPVC provides several benefits that make these windows a better investment for you and your home.
Better energy efficiency
Each window uses a multi-chambered profile, which helps to decrease heat loss, as the passage of heat from indoors to the outside is restricted. Double and triple glazing also contribute to keeping more heat inside your home due to the multiple panes performing the same function. Each opening window is fitted with co-extruded gaskets to seal out draught. With the cold kept out and more heat kept in, you can expect cosier winters, with less energy – and hence less money – wasted.
Lower maintenance requirements
UPVC windows have a low-maintenance surface that is both uv- and weather-resistant, withstanding the elements rain or shine. They don’t need to be painted or varnished as wood does, which if unprotected can warp and deteriorate from prolonged exposure to these same elements.
Drainage included
Each UPVC window includes drainage holes (also known as weep holes). These cause water from rain or cleaning to seep out of the window, instead of building up. Wooden windows without these drainage holes can decay over time if they are allowed to absorb water.
They match replacement UPVC doors
They have the same profile as our UPVC doors, making them the perfect match. This also includes the same finishes and options for backing glass. Additionally, most finishes for UPVC are also available for composite, so you can easily compliment the frame of a new composite front or back door.
What types of UPVC windows are available?
To take the place of wooden windows, we offer a variety of types for UPVC.
Fixed
Pure and simple, a window that remains in a fixed position and has no means of opening. Toughened glass ensures that no intruders can smash through.
Casement
Hinged to open like a door, you can order a casement to open vertically or horizontally. It can be opened for ventilation and closed when needed. A casement window can also include fixed elements.
Top hopper
An example of a casement with a fixed section. The top section opens vertically while the bottom remains fixed.
French windows
Two windows fitted within a frame. They’re very much like french doors – one is a master (the lead window) with engaging locks, while the other is a slave (secondary) with a flying mullion and lock keeps. This choice provides maximum ventilation.
Reversible
While it appears similar to a casement, the reversible window can rotate vertically 180°. This makes it easier to clean, and with outward brackets it does not intrude into the room space. As with casements, a reversible window can have fixed sections.
Tilt and Turn
A window that can open both vertically (tilt) and horizontally (turn). After the window is in its neutral (unopened) position, pulling the handle while turned at certain angles can determine which way it will open:
- ↑ Up facing – lets the window be opened horizontally for easy cleaning
- → Halfway – lets it open vertically (downward) for ventilation
- ↓ Down facing – secures it closed
Sliding sash
Designed in the spirit of traditional homes, it consists of two sashes (separate glazed sections) that can slide vertically, and each can be tilted for easy cleaning. The separate opening sashes allow you to ventilate your home as you see fit. Sash lifts on the bottom sash and pole eyes on the top make it easy to move each one as required. When not in use, both sashes can be secured with a key when closed.
Additionally, sliding windows have the option for sash horns or to have these omitted. In the past, these were used to strengthen the frame, but with the advance of technology windows have become more robust, and are more for decorative purposes nowadays.
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Fixed |
Casement |
Reversible |
Tilt & Turn |
Sliding Sash |
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Motion |
no |
45° approx. vertical swing -or- 90° approx. horizontal swing |
45° approx. vertical swing |
90° approx. horizontal swing |
2x vertical slide |
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Tilt |
no |
no |
180° vertical tilt |
15° approx. vertical tilt |
2x 45° approx. vertical tilt |
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Co-ex gaskets |
no |
yes |
yes |
yes |
no |
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Locked by key |
no |
yes |
yes |
yes |
yes |
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Colours |
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White |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
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Chartwell Green |
✔ |
✔ |
no |
✔ |
✔ |
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Anthracite Grey |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
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Black |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
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Rosewood |
✔ |
✔ |
no |
✔ |
✔ |
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Oak |
✔ |
✔ |
no |
✔ |
✔ |
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Irish Oak |
✔ |
✔ |
no |
✔ |
✔ |
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Hardware |
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Chrome |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
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Gold |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
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Graphite Silver |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
no |
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Antique Black |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
no |
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White |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
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Black |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
✔ |
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What are my options?
Customising your new UPVC window is as simple as with our doors.
Choose some of the same options as UPVC doors
Some of the options for our UPVC doors are also available for windows
Backing glass
For privacy or decoration, choose from a wide range of designs. You can even compliment the backing glass with that of your door.
Decorative glass
As an alternative to plain glass, you can have something more decorative, such as the classical Box and Diamond Leads, or the refined Edwardian and Georgian Bars (in White, Rosewood or Oak).
The same range of colours
Just like our doors, UPVC windows come in recognisable finishes, from white to rosewood, and the modern anthracite grey to name some.
Hardware finishes
The same standard hardware finishes for our UPVC doors are available for windows too – white, black, gold and chrome.
Cills
Cills can be included for additional drainage and aesthetics, in the same selection of sizes as for UPVC front or back doors – 85mm, 150mm and 185mm. They also come in the same range of finishes as the doors and their frames.
You can join two or more windows
If you have a large space and want to break it up, and want to mix opening and static windows, it is possible to do so.
Different types can be joined
As mentioned, you can have an opening top hopper and fixed bottom glass, or even frame a large window between two smaller casements.
For bay or bow windows
You can join multiple windows to create bay or bow windows, and again combine fixed and opening types.
What alternatives are there to UPVC windows?
There are some instances where you may prefer or require an alternative to windows.
Side panels and toplights
Affixed directly to a door frame, side panels and toplights provide natural light, and include options for backing glass and decorative Box or Diamond Lead. Alternatively, solid panelling can be used should more privacy be required.
Flag windows are shorter versions of side panels, essentially windows joined directly to the door frame.
Fully glazed or half glazed doors
Fully glazed and half glazed door styles enable a great degree of natural sunlight to enter the home. Again, backing glass options and a variety of glass designs are available with these doors.
French doors or patio doors for balconies
If you have a balcony, you could make use of french doors, or even sliding patio doors if the space permits. French and patio doors include a highly secure locking system and the same toughened safety glass as our windows.
I want to place an order
Good! Here’s how you can do so.
Send us a message
Either by selecting the blue tab on the right, or by visit the Contact Us page.
Give us a call
Speak to one of our Sales Team – freephone 0800 910 1122.
Order a door too!
Why not order your new door? When you place an order, our Sales Team will be in touch to discuss your requirements.