Weather in Australia is well known to be extreme. We have hot summers and cool winters. As temperatures fluctuate, replacing your windows with uPVC can provide energy savings and quality insulation, among other things.
If you’ve been contemplating uPVC windows in Sydney, here is what you need to know about them.
uPVC, or Unplasticised Polyvinyl Chloride, is a durable building material that typically replaces painted wooden window frames.
Manufacturers first heat the uPVC material to a specific temperature then inject the product into a mould. From here, the uPVC is cooled, cut, and assembled. Due to its lack of chemical content, uPVC retains its strength throughout its lifetime and can serve multiple purposes.
When applied to window structures, uPVC improves thermal efficiency, enhances your home’s energy-saving properties, and prevents warping.
uPVC has recently become popular building material for window frames for the following reasons.
Unlike their traditional counterparts, uPVC windows require little maintenance in cleaning. Simply wash with soapy water a few times a year and for any stubborn stains a heavy-duty remover can be used.
Otherwise, uPVC windows won’t require repainting, varnishing, or sanding. Even amid harsh weather, uPVC windows don’t show any signs of rot.
Because they are not made from timber, uPVC windows are immune to termite infestations and damage caused by other insects.
In water and sewer pipes, uPVC is known to withstand lifespans of up to a century. Compared to aluminium and wooden windows, uPVC can withstand extreme weather conditions and have impressive ultraviolet resistance—you won’t have to worry about how they perform under the Australian sun.
Other elements uPVC windows are resistant to are:
Your uPVC windows can sustain decades without chipping or drying out.
Because they are resistant to UV rays, uPVC windows can also keep your furniture from fading—no more worrying about keeping your valuables away from direct sunlight.
If you’ve ever experienced the wrath of an unforgiving Aussie summer, you can rest assured that a uPVC window’s non-conducive characteristics help to keep heat out of your home.
Unlike other heat-resistant materials, uPVC does not absorb and transfer outdoor temperatures. Thus, you can expect cool and consistent internal temperatures. By reducing condensation, you won’t have to worry about vapour settling on your walls and causing bubbles or leaks.
If you’re a fan of high energy efficiency, you might opt for uPVC double-glazed windows in Sydney. Double-glazed windows use two sheets of insulated panels, which provides a better barrier against outside elements.
Not only do uPVC windows insulate heat—but they also insulate noise. Installing noise reduction windows in Sydney can reduce surrounding noise by up to 40 decibels or over 70%.
Most uPVC windows come in a tilt and turn mechanism, which creates optimal, draft-free ventilation. When windows tilt inwards, they allow hot air to escape from the top and funnel cool air in through its sides.
When turned fully open, your windows will easily allow cool drafts in. This configuration also makes for more efficient cleaning.
Australian bushfires are often devastating and don’t spare residential areas. If you reside in a region rife with fire hazards, uPVC windows can help protect your home. They will even withstand areas zoned as Bushfire Attack Level 29kw/m2 or BAL29.
Note that uPVC windows are proven to withstand up to BAL40 to put things into perspective. Homeowners in windier areas can customise these windows to a maximum non-cyclonic and cyclonic rating of N5 C4.
Unlike metal and wood alternatives, uPVC is a material that is easy to recycle. Depending on the material’s quality, users can recycle uPVC windows up to ten times, even after 40 to 80 years.
Industry programs can repurpose this recyclable material into floor tiles, plumbing fixtures, pipes and fittings, and much more. Local initiatives have been working to keep end-of-life uPVC windows out of landfills by collecting off-cuts from various fabrications.
Furthermore, uPVC windows are safe and entirely non-toxic. The product is highly regulated to ensure complete safety for your household.
uPVC windows are not just safe in that they can keep your property from overheating and provide excellent fire resistance—they are also secure. Thanks to highly customisable multi-locking systems, you can keep your home or office fully protected against intruders.
Depending on your needs, you can customise your locking system to secure multiple points around a window’s sash and frame. Most uPVC windows can support up to ten different locking points. Homeowners can also opt to reinforce their windows with toughened safety or laminated glass.
Compared to aluminium or wood windows, uPVC materials go for roughly 20% to 30% cheaper. Considering their ability to keep your home well insulated and ventilated, they can also increase or maintain your property’s value in the long run.
As indicated by the above benefits, uPVC windows are highly customisable and can easily suit your specific needs. Buyers can choose between sash, casement, bay, and tilt and turn mechanisms that serve
These windows also come in a wide variety of styles, colours, and finishes. When shopping for a uPVC window replacement, you are likely to be spoiled for choice.
Ultimately, there is no denying the investment value in uPVC windows for your residential or commercial property. This increasingly popular material offers a wide variety of benefits at cost-effective prices.
For uPVC windows in Sydney that don’t disappoint, contact us at Mint Window and Door Solutions to find out more about the products we offer. With us, you can enjoy energy savings almost immediately—and do it in style.
Posted in uPVC