Despite the large strides made with uPVC in recent years, its shoddy reputation forged during the s has been a hard one to shake. Though primarily known for our work with hardwood windows and doors, modern developments made to the material mean we feel confident in offering uPVC windows and doors as a successful timber alternative for homeowners.
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To better halt the untrue and sometimes ill-informed misconceptions about uPVC, we thought it&#;d be helpful to address them head-on.
1. &#;They look cheap!&#;
This is simply not true. In fact, uPVC windows and doors can look however homeowners want them to. All units can be customised through adjustable colouring, glazing, and opening style so that you can enjoy luxury with low maintenance. This versatility is one of the many reasons why homeowners now choose to use uPVC when replacing their windows.
2. &#;They&#;re not very strong!&#;
If you&#;ve heard that uPVC isn&#;t very strong, we&#;re sorry to reveal that you&#;ve been misinformed. It&#;s actually engineered to be as sturdy and rigid as possible, to allow for effective installation of triple glazing into the units. Simply put, uPVC&#;s natural strength will never compromise the structural integrity of your home.
3. &#;uPVC isn&#;t good for the environment!&#;
uPVC is actually a very eco-friendly material. It&#;s completely recyclable which means that it can be broken down and used for other purposes when its natural lifespan comes to an end. And there&#;s no need to take down any trees. Once fitted, uPVC windows and doors are well-equipped to insulate the home too, meaning that less energy is needed to heat up the living space.
4. &#;uPVC windows will warp and crack!&#;
Though made from plastic, uPVC windows and uPVC doors are not susceptible to warping and cracking when subjected to heat. The frames come reinforced using galvanised iron, which means that they&#;ll always retain their shape and size.
5. &#;They don&#;t last very long!&#;
Wrong! uPVC windows and doors have an average lifespan of around 20 years, which, while not as long as timber or aluminium, can be extended to double that if quality materials are used. During this time they&#;ll continue performing and functioning as expected, holding fast against the sun harshness, rapid winds, and cold weather.
6. &#;They only come in White!&#;
uPVC windows and doors can be installed in a wide range of colours and finishes, helping to ensure that they can be customised to suit property styles both classical and contemporary. From classic styles like Chartwell Green and Cream to more authentic woodgrain foils like Rosewood and Irish Oak.
7. &#;uPVC causes condensation!&#;
Condensation is a problem that can occur in any frame material. Put simply, the tighter your home is sealed, the more likely it is that you&#;ll experience some kind of condensation build-up. Therefore, it&#;s best to incorporate ventilation features to allow air to flow through. Thankfully, most uPVC windows and doors do so naturally.
8. &#;It will turn yellow over time!&#;
Older uPVC windows and doors could turn yellow over long periods of time. Since then, modern manufacturing developments have improved, eradicating the possibility for uPVC frames and panels to discolour over time. Yellowing is an issue that&#;s simply not possible with most modern uPVC systems.
9. &#;They require a lot of care!&#;
This is one of the most baffling misconceptions we come across. uPVC is in no way high in maintenance. Their ability to be easily cleaned is actually one of uPVC&#;s biggest advantages, on the rare occasion that homeowners are needed to do. A vast improvement compared to the uPVC and timber of old (especially the latter whereby regular varnishing is required), modern uPVC windows and doors perfectly suit those wanting a &#;fit and forget&#; experience.
10. &#;They&#;re not as affordable as they used to be!&#;
While it&#;s true that uPVC might cost a little more than it did in say, the s, a lot of this is merely down to the natural inflation that has occurred in the British economy over time.
Despite this, the quality of uPVC windows and doors has improved greatly, they&#;re still the most affordable option and can even save you money thanks to multi-chambered profiles which serve to trap any present precious heat.
11. uPVC is Non-customisable!
A common misconception we often encounter is that uPVC windows and doors are non-customisable and only available in standard sizes and designs. This is far from the truth. Thanks to the versatility of uPVC, it is possible to have your windows and doors designed and manufactured to meet your unique requirements. Be it a distinct size for a period property, a unique shape for a design-led new build, or a specific style to match your home&#;s aesthetics, uPVC can be tailored perfectly.
12. uPVC isn&#;t suitable for period properties
Some people believe that uPVC isn&#;t appropriate for period properties due to its modern appearance. In reality, uPVC can be styled to mimic traditional materials like wood, allowing it to blend seamlessly with the aesthetic of period properties while providing the benefits of modern insulation and security.
Quality uPVC solutions from Reddish Joinery
We hope we&#;ve managed to clear up just some of the most prominent misconceptions about uPVC, reinforcing our belief that windows and doors engineered in the material are a solid choice when wanting to improve your home.
For more information on our selection of uPVC windows and doors, why not get in touch? You can contact Reddish Joinery either via on 696 or send us an online message today.
uPVC doors are a popular choice for homeowners across the UK due to their affordability, durability, and energy efficiency.
In this guide, we&#;ll explore the key features, styles, and benefits of uPVC doors to help you decide if they&#;re the right fit for your home.
Whether you&#;re upgrading your front door, installing patio doors, or considering modern uPVC options with customizable door furniture such as handles, knockers, and letterboxes, this article has everything you need.
What are uPVC Doors?
uPVC doors, also known as unplasticized polyvinyl chloride doors, are crafted from a strong and durable form of plastic. These doors have become a popular choice for homeowners due to their low maintenance and naturally weatherproof finish. Unlike wooden doors, uPVC doors do not warp, rot, or rust, making them an excellent long-term investment.
They are also energy-efficient, helping to keep your home warm and reducing energy bills. Available in a wide range of styles, from modern to traditional, uPVC doors can be customised to match your home&#;s aesthetic perfectly.
Why Choose uPVC Doors?
Low Maintenance and Long-Lasting
One of the primary advantages of uPVC doors is their low maintenance. Unlike wooden doors, uPVC requires only a quick wash to keep them looking new. They are naturally weatherproof, offering resistance to warping, rotting, and rusting.
Energy Efficiency
uPVC doors are thermally efficient, helping to reduce heat loss from your home. This not only keeps your property warmer in winter but also lowers your energy bills. For even better insulation, opt for uPVC doors with double glazing.
Security and Safety
Modern uPVC doors are equipped with strong frames, reinforced panels, and advanced locking systems, making them an excellent choice for home security. Options like safety glass add an extra layer of protection.
Affordable and Customisable
Compared to other materials like composite doors, uPVC doors are cost-effective. They are available in a wide range of colours, styles, and finishes, including the popular anthracite grey, to suit both modern and traditional homes.
Types of uPVC Doors
uPVC Front Doors
Perfect for enhancing your home&#;s curb appeal, uPVC front doors are available in a variety of styles and colours. They combine aesthetic appeal with robust security features.
uPVC Back Doors
uPVC back doors are ideal for kitchens, utility rooms, and rear entrances. Sealed units play a crucial role in ensuring the durability and water resistance of these doors. They are durable, secure, and easy to maintain.
Patio Doors
For homes with a garden or patio, uPVC patio doors provide a seamless connection between indoor and outdoor spaces. They maximise natural light and are available in sliding or French styles.
Composite Doors vs uPVC Doors
If you&#;re debating between composite doors and uPVC doors, the main differences lie in the material, cost, and durability. Composite doors offer a premium finish but come at a higher price, whereas uPVC doors are budget-friendly and require less maintenance.
uPVC Door Materials and Construction
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uPVC doors are constructed using a combination of high-quality materials designed to offer durability and performance. The core material, uPVC, is a strong and durable form of plastic that resists warping and cracking. To enhance the door&#;s strength and stability, steel reinforcements are integrated into the design.
Additionally, uPVC doors often feature double glazing, which provides excellent thermal insulation and soundproofing, making your home more comfortable and energy-efficient. Safety glass is another critical component, designed to shatter safely upon impact, adding an extra layer of security to your home.
uPVC Door Installation and Fitting
Measuring and Fitting
Accurate measuring and fitting are crucial for ensuring that your uPVC door provides a secure and weather-tight seal. The door must fit snugly into the frame, with a gap of no more than 10mm to prevent drafts and water ingress. A drainage cill is also essential to channel water away from the door, protecting your home from potential water damage.
Professional Installation
While DIY installation is an option, hiring a professional installer is highly recommended. A professional brings the necessary skills and experience to ensure that your uPVC door is fitted correctly and securely. They can also provide a guarantee for their work, giving you peace of mind. Additionally, a professional can advise on the best type of door for your property and offer tips on maintaining and caring for your new door, ensuring it remains in top condition for years to come.
Comparison Table: uPVC Door Types
Door Type
Key Features
Best For
uPVC Front Doors
Thermally efficient, secure, stylish
Main entrance to enhance curb appeal
uPVC Back Doors
Durable, low maintenance
Kitchens and utility areas
Patio Doors
Sliding or French styles, light max
Gardens and patios
Composite Doors
Premium finish, high durability
Main doors with a luxurious feel
Frequently Asked Questions about uPVC Doors
How much should a new uPVC door cost installed?
The cost of a new uPVC door, including installation, typically ranges from £600 to £1,200. This price varies based on factors such as size, design, glazing options, and additional features. For instance, a basic uPVC front door may start around £600, while more elaborate designs with decorative glazing can approach £1,200.
Can you replace a uPVC door without replacing the frame?
Yes, it's possible to replace a uPVC door without changing the existing frame, provided the frame is in good condition and compatible with the new door. However, ensuring a proper fit is crucial to maintain security and energy efficiency. Consulting with a professional installer is recommended to assess the suitability of the existing frame.
How much should a new front door cost installed?
The cost of installing a new front door in the UK varies depending on the material and design. On average:
uPVC Front Doors: £600 to £1,200
Composite Front Doors: £1,100 to £1,400
Wooden Front Doors: £550 to £1,800
These prices include installation and can vary based on customisations and regional labour rates.
What is a major disadvantage of using uPVC material for doors?
A significant disadvantage of uPVC doors is their limited aesthetic flexibility. While they are durable and low-maintenance, uPVC doors may not offer the same premium feel or design versatility as materials like wood or composite. Over time, uPVC can also discolour, especially when exposed to harsh sunlight.
Is a composite door better than uPVC?
Composite doors are generally considered superior to uPVC doors in terms of durability, security, and aesthetic appeal. They are constructed from multiple materials, offering enhanced strength and insulation. However, composite doors are more expensive than uPVC doors. The choice depends on individual preferences, budget, and specific requirements.
Which brand PVC door is best?
Several reputable brands offer high-quality PVC doors. The best choice depends on factors like budget, design preferences, and specific needs. It's advisable to research and consult with local suppliers to find a brand that aligns with your requirements.
Which uPVC brand is good?
Leading uPVC brands in the UK include Harrington Windows, Eurocell, VEKA, and Rehau. These manufacturers are known for producing durable, energy-efficient, and aesthetically pleasing uPVC doors and windows. Choosing a reputable brand ensures quality and longevity.
Do uPVC doors look cheap?
Modern uPVC doors have evolved significantly and can mimic the appearance of traditional materials like wood. While some basic models may have a plastic look, many uPVC doors are designed with woodgrain finishes and decorative elements that enhance their aesthetic appeal. Selecting a high-quality uPVC door can provide a stylish and cost-effective solution.
How to choose a uPVC door?
When selecting a uPVC door, consider the following factors:
Design and Style: Ensure the door complements your home's architecture.
Security Features: Look for multi-point locking systems and reinforced frames.
Energy Efficiency: Opt for doors with high energy ratings to reduce heat loss.
Accreditation: Choose doors that meet industry standards and certifications.
Warranty: A comprehensive warranty indicates confidence in the product's quality.
Consulting with a professional installer can also provide valuable insights tailored to your specific needs.
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