THE DIFFERENCE BETWEEN TIMBER, ALUMINIUM AND UPVC FRAMES
So, you’ve decided to make a start on your uPVC and double glazing journey? This is an exciting venture, but it can also be overwhelming! One of the biggest decisions you’ll make is choosing the framing material. Double glazed windows insulate your home, provide noise reduction, reduce energy bills and more; but they are directly affected by the quality and longevity of your frames. If your window frame has cracks, loosens or deteriorates you won’t be able to reap the benefits to the same degree, and replacements can be costly. As you might already be aware, most double glazing companies offer uPVC, timber or aluminum framing; three very different materials. In this article we will break down the most common double glazing framing materials, and compare the benefits and shortfalls! Read on to find out more.
What Is uPVC?
To begin, let’s look into what uPVC is. uPVC is a double glazing framing material that has grown in popularity over recent years. Thanks to its durability, uPVC offers a long-lasting frame for double glazed windows and doors. uPVC is also BPA-free, and recyclable! Across Australia, both builders and designers are starting to see the benefits of using uPVC for building purposes, from window frames and doors to cladding.
The Benefits Of uPVC Frames
There are many reasons why uPVC is the superior double glazing framing choice! Not only is uPVC water and air tight, it also improves the insulating and noise reduction properties of double glazed windows. uPVC framing offers extra security, easy maintenance and reduced energy bills! This may sound too good to be true, but the durability and accessibility of uPVC means long term benefits for you.
Let’s dive a bit deeper. The way uPVC keeps air from entering or escaping your home improves the insulating properties of your windows and decreases the need for cooling in summer, and heating in winter. What does this mean for you? Smaller energy bills year round! It also means you are saving energy, therefore saving the environment – a sustainable choice for any home or build.
uPVC doesn’t require touch ups or maintenance, just a wipe down with soapy water every now and then! This saves you time, and money, in the short and long term. As uPVC doesn’t flex or bend overtime, your home is safer than ever; combined with the two panes of glass, uPVC double glazed windows are a real deterrent for potential break ins!
It is also important to note that when looking at purchasing uPVC, Australian made quality is necessary! uPVC manufactured for a different climate, like that in Europe, may not withstand Australian conditions. Thermotek Windows & Doors manufacture uPVC in Melbourne; uPVC made for Australians, by Australians.
The Reality Of Timber Frames
In short, timber frames are less durable and often end up as a poor investment. While timber is often a popular choice, it’s worth looking into the life cycle of timber frames. The benefits of timber revolve around its availability, and how easy it is to shape into complex designs. These benefits are short lived, as timber is intrinsically fragile. If you opt for timber frames, you’ll be subject to high maintenance, as well as a product that is susceptible to rotting and warping.
Before making the choice to invest in timber frames for your double glazed windows, look into a wood-look uPVC alternative. All the aesthetics of timber, with the benefits of uPVC. uPVC is incomparable to timber, as uPVC lasts longer with less maintenance. At Thermotek, we have uPVC available in a number ofstyles and colours, with many customers choosing a wood look to suit the needs of their home! Contact us for more information on wood look uPVC.
The Reality Of Aluminium Frames
Aluminium is the other popular window frame choice. Often higher quality than timber, aluminum comes with its own positives and negatives. Aluminium is light yet strong, and can be easily extruded into any shape for window parts, no matter how complex. It is also available in a number of finishes, with certain finishes increasing the durability.
However, there are disadvantages to aluminium. Salt water lessens the lifespan of aluminium, with filiform corrosion often affecting the exposed joints. Aluminium is highly conductive, and can affect the insulation of your windows. In colder climates, condensation of moisture or even frost can occur on the window frames inside your home.
Australian Made uPVC Double Glazed Windows
Whether you are renovating, or building, you need windows that will last. The Australian climate is demanding, and ever changing, and your windows need to be able to sustain over time. Double glazed windows, including the uPVC framing, manufactured overseas may not have the necessary durability. Be sure to do the right research, and find a company who makes their products in Australia to ensure years of benefits!
Thermotek Windows & Doors
At Thermotek, we offer quality uPVC frames for all budgets and builds. Our double glazed windows are enhanced by uPVC framing, and offer years of benefits. All our windows and frames are manufactured in Australia, for Australian’s. We pride ourselves on the quality of our products, and believe in the sustainability and durability of uPVC. Interested in a quote? Visit our website to start your double glazing journey today!
Our double glazed, uPVC windows are available in a number of different styles. No matter the needs, or aesthetic, of your build or renovation, our windows can blend right in or make a statement.
If you have any questions, our friendly staff are here to help! Contact us today, or visit our website, to see everything we have on offer. We look forward to helping you through your double glazing journey.