What is uPVC?
uPVC is an extremely hard wearing and energy efficient form of polyvinyl chloride. It is most commonly used to manufacture essential parts of the home like doors and window frames. It’s easy to mould, super strong and can be finished in a wide variety of colours and styles. In many cases manufacturers finish uPVC to look like wood, meaning that the material can be used without detracting from the aesthetics of a home’s frontage.
What are the benefits of choosing uPVC?
Many home owners are choosing to install uPVC doors because the material is extremely strong, hardwearing and resilient to everyday wear and tear. In addition uPVC doors are a great option in terms of security because most are fitted with up to the minute locking systems which makes them extremely difficult to break into. They are also easily able to withstand attempts at forced entry as they are extremely difficult to kick through.
In terms of energy efficiency uPVC doors are one of the best door choices available. uPVC doors create a tight seal around the door frame making it impossible for draughts to find their way into a home. Conversely, they also keep heat in the home more efficiently than alternatives like wood.
When it comes to design uPVC doors offer a wide range of choices. Although uPVC doors usually come in white, it is possible to finish them in different colours or to make them look like wood. Some companies offer a service allowing you to design your own door and choose things like window finishes, handles and letter box design.
The main drawback of uPVC doors is that they are not particularly environmentally friendly. The manufacturing process involves the use of harsh chemicals and old doors do not bio degrade. However, it is possible to recycle uPVC doors and many companies who sell uPVC products are beginning to offer recycling services too.
What are the benefits of choosing wood?
The two main reasons homeowners choose wood as opposed to uPVC is due to aesthetics and price. Over the last two decades the national obsession with creating beautiful homes has grown exponentially and many home owners turn their noses up at the thought of using PVC window frames or doors in a character home. In addition, wooden doors are less expensive than uPVC. However, in most cases the quality of a door is reflected in the price and when you take into consideration the life of the door and the security and efficiency a door offers, uPVC is generally a better choice.
Another reason why people choose wood is that they believe it is a more environmentally friendly choice and in many ways, it is. Most wooden doors that are sold within the UK are now manufactured using sustainable wood sources. In addition wooden doors are easier to recycle than uPVC and cause less damage to the environment in the manufacturing process.
However, this is slightly counteracted by the energy efficiency of wooden doors as they are not as good as uPVC when it comes to keeping the cold out and keeping the heat in.
What should I choose for my home?
The choice you make for your home mostly depends on personal preference. If you have a character home and you can’t stand the thought of using uPVC then wood is the best choice for you, but if you want to choose a door that is highly durable, secure and energy efficient then go for a uPVC door.
