Whether you're building a new home or making over your exist ting home, fitting UPVC windows can transform your residence both in terms of style and functionality. These windows bring a rich array of advantages to any home - they're stylish, durable, eco-friendly, easy to clean and maintain and highly weather resistant. What's more, they can be very easy to install. Look for more fire rated windows.
UPVC (Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride, also known as PVC-U) is an attractive material available in a wide range of colours and finishes. You can opt for a plain bright white or choose from a number of photo effect wood-finishes to achieve the look you want for your windows.
It's also a highly durable material that will give you a lifetime of use. UPVC windows will handle anything the elements can throw at them whether sun, rain, snow or frost; and they won't discolour, warp, crack, peel, rust, corrode or tarnish.
It's also an eco-friendly material. For one thing, it can be recycled. There's also the matter of better insulation. As it's harder than wood, UPVC is better at retaining heat which makes for buildings which are more energy efficient.
These windows are easy to take care of, too. Just wash your window frames with soap and water every now and again and they'll keep looking spanking new for years and years. There's no need for painting or sealing as with wood.
Another big plus for UPVC windows is their ease of installation. Fitting windows was long an involved process the good news is that fitting UPVC windows is a breeze if you use an adjustable steel fixing strap.
These items are compatible with all window types and can handle all cavity widths. These straps come in sizes of 100-200 mm with a few firms offering sizes of 250mm to fit wider cavities.
This approach makes fitting UPVC windows a snap. The steel strap clips and locks onto the outer window frame. There's no need for screws or other fixings. Once the window is positioned in the aperture, the strap is just screwed to the interior blockwork to secure the window in position.
One consideration when dealing with UPVC windows is that of trickle vents. These are small openings integrated into window frames that allow natural ventilation when the windows are closed. In this way, they lower the generally humidity in your home.
Excessive humidity can cause a number of problems including condensation and growth of mould. Trickle vents also reduce the need for you to keep your windows open which could result in increased energy consumption, draughts and a higher risk of break ins. Trickle vents on windows are now compulsory on all new builds and extensions but not on replacement windows.
When fitting UPVC windows, you need to also consider the matter of the cavity fire barrier. The fact is that wall cavities are at risk for fire and installing barriers is a must.
When it comes to fitting windows into apertures whether new-build or replacement, there are a number of important considerations, especially if you're carrying out the work yourself.
Handling glass is dangerous so be sure to wear appropriate safety equipment.
As UPVC Windows are not designed to be load bearing, a lintel may be required above the window.
Next, a cavity fire barrier is essential. Cavities are hidden areas with the potential for fires to spread. What's more, building Regulations require cavity barriers to be used around wall openings and junctions.
You can use cavity fire barriers to stop the spread of fire in the cavity. Made from compressible mineral wool, fire rated cavity closers are not only environmentally friendly but also afford considerable fire protection
Using an adjustable steel fixing strap allows the rapid fitting of UPVC windows and can handle all types of window and cavity widths. It's the fast, convenient way to add new windows to your new or existing dwelling.
UPVC is truly the material of choice when it comes to modern windows, doors and other house components. To find the best deals for your home, visit the web sites of online vendors and choose the right windows for your home. Then get ready to find out how easy fitting UPVC windows can be.
