One important factor in the now well established position of uPVC windows in Europe and the US, has been their recognised ease of maintenance.

uPVC windows do not rot, warp, peel or chip. Over their service life, you won’t need to repaint or re-seal the frames, significantly reducing maintenance and your time. They require only an occasional wipe down for appearance purposes and are easily cleaned with water and detergent.

Windows are intended to be exposed to the elements, including wind, rain and UV light and so, like other materials, uPVC window frames are designed to withstand the weather and remain durable. In Europe and the US, across a range of climates, they have a proven 40 year expected life span, over which time, some limited, superficial changes can occur, such as a loss of gloss on the surface finish of the frame.

In Australia, quality uPVC profiles use a special formulation designed for the high UV experienced here and in some other parts of the world. Quality uPVC profiles should not discolour under exposure to the Australian summer sun. To provide greater confidence to consumers about the durability of uPVC windows in Australian conditions, the uPVC Windows Alliance members are developing an Industry Code of Practice with stringent testing requirements for weather resistance and colour retention.

Typical uPVC frames are white or light coloured. However, a wide range of colours or a timber-look can be provided by the addition of durable laminated foils to the profile. These foils are also available in high UV-resistant formulations and usually have manufacturers’ warranties as to their life spans.

Image with thanks to profine - KÖMMERLING