My Basket Shiplap cladding has become increasingly popular in recent years, particularly in the home renovation and design industry. Like many forms of composite cladding, it has some real benefits over traditional cladding – from versatility through to colour choice and being easy to maintain.
Regardless of what you need to use it for, this type of cladding is a simple and effective way to add a touch of rustic charm to any space, and it can be used in a variety of settings, both inside and outside of the home.
Saving you hassle on projects
One of the reasons shiplap cladding is so popular is that it is relatively inexpensive and easy to install. Unlike other types of cladding, such as brick or stone, shiplap can be purchased pre-cut and pre-finished, making it a quick and easy option for our customers. Additionally, it can be installed using basic tools, such as a saw and hammer, making it accessible to those with perhaps a more limited construction experience.
The natural wood grain effect is perfect for adding a sense of warmth and texture to a room or building and offers a range of practical benefits, including insulation and durability, as well as the ability to create a variety of different styles and designs.
Used in a variety of ways
Versatility is another great benefit of shiplap cladding. It can easily be used on internal walls or used create an inviting outdoor space. In a porch or patio or it can even be used to create an accent wall, a feature wall, or a complete wall covering to create a space that is tailored to their individual tastes and preferences. Additionally, our shiplap cladding ranges don’t need to be painted or stained, saving you a job!
Shiplap cladding is also a great economical option – it adds another layer of insulation to a space, which can help to reduce energy costs, and it is a durable and long-lasting option to save on maintenance and replacements
While often chosen for its wood grain effect, shiplap cladding can also be used to create modern and contemporary spaces when paired with sleek and minimalistic design elements. This ability to blend seamlessly with different styles is another reason why shiplap cladding is so popular.
With all these benefits, it’s no wonder that shiplap cladding is so popular among homeowners and designers alike.
See the full range of options at Edge Building Supplies
At Edge, we have large stocks of cladding, in many colours and finishes. We stock the Fortex Cladding range, HardiePlank Fibre Cement Cladding and other uPVC cladding ranges.
You’re very welcome to pop into any of our three branches and take a look at some samples and installations of our cladding ranges and view our colour and texture options.
Read more about our Cladding ranges here:
Why is Fortex Cladding a great option for my project?
Shiplap Cladding | A history and our products today
Cladding: what is it and why is it used?
The Cladding Trend Continues…
A Guide to Cladding
New trends in Cladding
HardiePlank Cladding
The Fortex Cladding Range
Shiplap Cladding
If you have any queries, or wish to get a quotation, pop us an email on [email protected] or give us a call on 0345021333 and one of our helpful team members will be able to assist you.
Installing PVC windows and doors in the home has numerous benefits, both short-term and long-term. Not only are these frames aesthetically pleasing and require minimal maintenance, but they are also highly durable and offer superior insulation performance compared to other materials such as hardwood, softwood and aluminium.
In this blog we will look at the benefits of PVC windows and doors in more detail to ensure we are arming you with all the information you need to help your clients decide on whether PCV is right for them and their property.
What is PVC?
Polyvinyl Chloride, or PVC for short, is a material used in the construction of window and door frames and has become increasingly popular over the last couple of decades due to their long-lasting nature, energy efficiency, cost effectiveness and easy installation.
PVC is a strong plastic composite that’s resistant to weathering, rot, and corrosion, making them an ideal choice for homes in areas that are subject to low temperatures.
What are the practical benefits of using PVC windows and doors?
PVC has higher insulation properties than other window materials such as wood or aluminium, which allows for better protection against heat loss in cooler climates. Technically advanced PVC windows can offer high A+14 energy efficiency ratings, meaning heat remains inside the property, therefore reducing energy bills and the carbon footprint of the homeowner.
When it comes to soundproofing, PVC materials have better noise reduction capabilities than other materials – making them perfect for those living in noisy neighbourhoods. This is particularly important if the property is on a main road and is subject to persistent traffic noise.
PVC windows have the benefit of being available in two different glazing options – double glazing, which contributes even further to improved thermal performance by trapping air between two panes of glass, and triple-glazing, which offers an additional pane of glass (and therefore two air pockets for ultra-insulation!)
In terms of safety and security, PVC windows and doors are available with multiple lock systems that make it extremely difficult for intruders to enter the home. Furthermore, thanks to the strength and rigidity of the frames, they serve as an additional barrier against break-ins and provide extra peace of mind to homeowners.
Locks for PVC windows are available in a variety of types and colours, including white, black, chrome, gold and silver. There are also a range of hinge options: a standard hinge, and a series of fire escape (egress) hinges, which provide an increased clear opening area to escape through in the event of an emergency.
Ventilation is also a key benefit of PVC windows and doors, and allows additional airflow into the property without the need to open the window or door.
What about the aesthetics of PVC windows and doors?
PVC windows and doors are available in a variety of colours meaning homeowners can achieve the desired look for their home’s external appearance while still ensuring that they will benefit from all of the practical advantages of using PVC. With PVC, frames don’t require painting, staining, or sealing like timber does, nor will they fade in the same way as wood. There has been an increase in popularity for grey frames over recent years, and whichever colour homeowners choose, PVC windows and doors boast a sleek modern appearance that greatly enhances the aesthetics of any living space, whilst also giving the home extra curb appeal.
One of the biggest aesthetical benefits of PVC windows and doors is the range of styles they are available in. PVC offers a wealth of choice and can ensure the period and style of the house is complemented. Styles include tilt & turn, vertical sliding windows, sliding sash, flush sash, and casement windows. This range demonstrates their true versatility too.
Does UPVC really last longer than other window and door materials?
Yes, they really do!
PVC is strong and durable, and easy to install. Not only this, UPVC frames are renowned for being low maintenance and easy to clean, requiring minimal effort from the homeowner. Because PVC is a durable and robust material, it can withstand most outdoor elements. PVC glazing systems can be maintained simply and easily with a cloth or soft brush and warm water, alongside some mild detergent for stubborn marks and stains.
Regular cleaning of the windows and doors and checking them for any damage is also advisable; and spotting any issues and addressing them immediately with the appropriate repairs will help prolong their lifespan. Signs that UPVC windows need replacing usually include the windows becoming draughtier, excessive condensation gathering on the inside of the window, and any visible damage to the glass panes.
However, it’s important to note that well maintained UPVC windows and doors can last around 20 years and beyond, which far exceeds that of the timber or aluminium alternatives.
Choosing good quality PVC windows and doors
Choosing good glazing systems from a reputable supplier and ensuring they are fitted by a qualified tradesperson will of course mean windows and doors last for as long as possible.
Edge Building Products are leaders in building and glazing products and offer the broadest range of PVCu windows and doors on the market. Not only do we deliver our glazing systems directly to your site, but we are also available to answer any questions you or your clients may have.
We have trade counters in Chichester, Horsham and Croydon and are also available by emailing [email protected] or telephoning 0345 021333. We have a wealth of information and installation guides on our website too!
If you can’t find what you are looking for, please don’t hesitate to contact us.
Double glazing versus Triple glazing windows and doors – The Facts.
When considering replacing old single-paned windows and doors with new double or triple glazed units, homeowners often face a dilemma about which glazing type to choose. Along with frame type, gas fills and spacers, energy use and warranties, there is a lot to consider.
How should you guide your clients to choose the right glazing system, and how do the benefits of each one stack up?
In this blog, we will specifically look at the facts around both double and triple-glazing, so that homeowners are able to make an informed decision on the glazing system that is right for them.
Single glazing
Although single-glazed windows may still be found in old properties and those in need of renovation, single glazing is no longer permitted under new-build construction laws. The act, brought in during 2002 states that new windows must conform to standard energy efficiency ratings. Windows and doors are given a ‘U-factor’, also called a ‘U-value’, which is ‘the rate at which a window, door or skylight transmits non-solar heat flow’.*
Single glazing scores extremely poorly in this area. The lower the U-factor rating, the more energy-efficient the glazing system is.
How is double or triple glazing more energy efficient?
Double-glazed and tripe-glazed windows have lower U-factor ratings due to the two or three panes of glass that are separated by an air gap or gas called ‘argon’. This gap, which is roughly 16mm in thickness, is completely sealed and helps to considerably reduce heat loss in a room, whilst also increasing sound insulation and therefore blocking out external noise.
Energy efficient glazing also reduces the build-up of condensation which can have long-term effects on the home and health of its occupants. With both double and triple-glazed windows, condensation is reduced as it cannot form between the panes of glass due to a component called ‘desiccant’ being used, which absorbs excess moisture.
Glazing systems are manufactured in different sizes, styles, materials and with various types of frames. Types of double-glazed and tripe-glazed windows include tilt & turn, which are often chosen for upper floor windows due to their security benefits, vertical sliding windows, sliding sash, flush sash and casement windows.
There is also the material of the frame for the homeowner to consider. uPVC is a popular choice due to its easy maintenance and the variety of colours available, but other options include hardwood and softwood, aluminium, and composite.
What are the major differences between double and triple glazing?
Unsurprisingly the major difference between double and triple-glazed windows is that the latter contains three individual panes of glass instead of two. Naturally, because there are 3 panes of glass and 2 ‘pockets’ of air between them, rather than 1, triple glazing offers additional heat insulation benefits over double-glazing and allows more efficient trapping of heat inside the property.
This results in reduced energy costs in addition to improved comfort, as temperatures will remain consistent across all rooms regardless of external weather conditions. This is an important consideration for homeowners with the current energy cost crisis.
Given the extra layer of insulation provided by triple glazing, there will be greater noise reduction compared to double glazing due to sound waves being trapped within the three panes instead of two.
Whilst both double and triple-glazed windows have considerably greater insulation benefits than single glazing, it does also mean that the heat of the sun is kept out, and therefore a house will not see the benefit of the natural warmth of the sun. In a country like the UK, which doesn’t typically see extremely hot weather conditions, this is less of an issue.
It’s also important to note that triple-glazed windows add an increase in security. Naturally, the extra pane of glass increases strength and will be much tougher to break through.
Triple-glazed windows do tend to be more costly than their double-glazed counterparts due to increased material costs, and so it’s important to weigh up the cost saving benefits of added insulation versus the financial outlay of the windows.
This increase in material means that environmental impact is also a consideration for both double and triple-glazed windows. Whilst undoubtedly, triple-glazing will be more energy efficient and reduce the homeowners carbon footprint, it will use more material in the manufacturing process, and it therefore comes with its own environmental cost.
In summary, it’s important for homeowners to carefully consider all these elements when choosing between double and triple-glazing. The decision will depend largely on individual preferences and circumstances, given that both offer distinct advantages.
At Edge Building Products we supply an extensive range of uPVC windows, bi-fold and patio doors, including all major styles, designs and finishing options. In addition, we also offer the only uPVC window specifically designed for triple glazing. A unique ‘flatter’ glazing bead accommodates a thicker glazed unit which can achieve U-values as low as 0.9 wm2k. We also offer a range of handle, hinge, and ventilation options.
Our PVC Window and Door Brochure is a great source of information if you are looking for more information on glazing options, you can read this online here.
For more information on our uPVC windows or any of the glazing system accessories we sell, please do contact us at [email protected] or telephone 0345 021 333.
With trade counters in Chichester, Horsham and Croydon, we have the broadest range of low maintenance building and glazing products in the market, and we are available to answer any questions in person or via email or telephone.
*Department for Energy
Common questions about uPVC Windows and Doors
We supply a vast range of uPVC Windows and Doors at Edge, and we get a lot of questions about their thermal efficiency, appearance, and many other factors.
We’ve taken the most frequently asked questions to make sure you have the answers you need!
Should I install UPVC Windows and Doors?
uPVC windows can literally be installed in any type of building. They are incredibly easy to keep clean and are also a very cost–effective, energy-saving solution. So, yes – you should install them!
What is double-glazed glass?
Double glazing is basically two panes of glass sealed together, with a gas-filled cavity between them. Standard units are about 28mm thick, with the actual glass panes at 4mm thick.
Are double-glazed windows good for the environment?
Yes, double-glazed windows are good at preventing heat loss, which both energy-saving and cost-effective! Double-glazed windows are said to be able to reduce carbon dioxide emissions by 680kg per year!
How long does it take to install double-glazed windows?
Installing uPVC double-glazed windows doesn’t take long if you know what you’re doing. We recommend getting a professional window fitter in if you don’t have the experience yourself. Take a look at our PVC installation guide for more details.
Are double-glazed windows vacuum sealed?
No, the cavity between the two window panes is filled with a noble gas, mostly Argon. This prevents the heat from indoors escaping so rapidly, improving thermal efficiency.
What is double-glazing beading?
Beading is the part of the window frame which holds the glass. It’s usually a strip which snaps into the window frame over the glass.
What is the U value of a double-glazed unit?
U values differ depending on the specification of the unit. However, a standard 28mm double-glazed unit is around 1.2w/m²K.
What are the advantages of uPVC windows and doors?
- Low maintenance – easily cleaned or touched up.
- Safe and secure – high-quality locking systems are available to protect your property.
- Soundproof – cancelling out external noise and providing acoustic insulation.
- Weatherproof – protecting property interiors from rain, hail, and other severe weather.
- Great value for money – PVC is cheaper than aluminium or wooden windows.
- Versatile – almost limitless opportunities in styling and performance, suited to any property!
What are the common patterns and types of uPVC windows?
Some of the trends in uPVC windows over the last few years are:
- Grey and black shades
- Matt or woodgrain finishes (for modern or traditional properties).
- Flush casement sashes, these are very popular due to their seamless, classic design – they look perfect in almost every style, whether traditional or modern.
- Sliding sash windows are also very popular in more traditional style projects, these are also great for air flow in rooms.
Why are my double-glazed windows covered in condensation?
If your glass units are misty or have condensation within the panes, this means the seal has broken and the unit is ‘blown’.
Can blown double-glazed glass units be repaired?
We recommend that you replace any blown units (glass units that have mist or condensation inside the pane) as this means the unit seal is broken – there is no effective way to fix this issue.
Are uPVC windows and doors easy to break into?
PVC doors are fitted with high-quality locking mechanisms, as standard – making them a secure option to install in your home. Take a look at our specification guide for more details on the locking systems.
What makes uPVC doors so popular?
One of the reasons why uPVC doors are so popular is because they are very low maintenance. There are a lot of styles you can achieve with uPVC windows too, which is another reason why they are often preferred – Sash windows, French casements, flush sash and standard casements are just some of the styles that look perfect in PVC profile.
Plastic windows provide durable weatherproof protection that can be relied upon for many years after installation and are cheaper than timber or aluminium windows too.
If you have more questions or require a quotation – reach out to one of our helpful team members in the Bespoke Department, [email protected] 0345 021 3333. You are very welcome to visit our window showroom in Chichester too!
At Edge, we work with so many great brands in order to provide you with an array of quality, low-maintenance product choices for your projects. In this blog, we’ll visit each brand and tell you more about them.
Keep an eye on this page, as we’ll update it whenever we bring new brands on board!
Liniar
Liniar building products are well known for their market-leading innovative extrusion of PVC profiles. Ever since the company’s doors opened, they have been expanding horizons; from waste reduction to increased product ranges, Liniar building supplies have taken massive steps to optimise their products and services.
Edge Building products have had a longstanding alliance with Liniar, using their PVC profiles in many of our product ranges. We are proud to be ambassadors for Liniar, who are renowned for high-quality products that deliver unrivalled durability with a focus on innovation and sustainability.
Edge supplies Liniar’s windows and doors, window trims, garden fencing and conservatory roofs.
Swish
Swish Building Supplies are one of the most well-known UK manufacturers of cellular PVC roofline products, internal and external cladding products, fascias and bargeboards. With over 40 years trading, the company are a leading voice in plastic production and technology.
Swish has worked with us for many years, supplying fascias, soffits, decorative roofline products, drainage, internal cladding, external cladding, window boards and trims.
Origin
Origin was established in 2002 and manufacture premium quality aluminium windows, doors, bifold doors and front doors in bespoke sizes and configurations.
Edge Building Products became one of Origin’s partners in 2021, we are trained in product knowledge and installation (although we only supply Origin products, we can recommend Origin-trained installers).
We always find that the Origin products are flawless, and unique in their superior quality. If you would like to come and see them for yourself, we have samples in our Chichester Showroom
Britmet
Britmet Lightweight Roofing is a family-run business, and is the largest UK manufacturer of lightweight roofing products. They have been supplying the market since 1976 with an expanding variety of lightweight roofing products.
Edge stocks Britmet’s Liteslate tile, which was established in 2019, and is an innovative synthetic slate roofing tile made from 90% recycled polymers, polypropylene & limestone, with all the qualities you can expect from a traditional slate tile. Liteslate presents an authentic finish with riven edges, with traditional colour choices and incredible durability.
Brett Martin
Brett Martin has over 60 years of experience in the processes of manufacturing plastic. With many divisions and a wide range of industries to serve, they work as a great team to support their customers all over the world. Edge has a great history with Brett Martin, having purchased from the brand for many years.
The Brett Martin Cast Iron Style Guttering Range is one of our favourite product ranges – it’s highly realistic and very durable, making it a perfect option for replacement guttering on traditional properties.
Orac Décor
We’ve worked alongside Orac Décor to provide our customers with classy interior and exterior cornice and coving choices that add the finishing touch to homes and rooms.
Orac are a high-quality brand that specialise in decorative wall coverings made from high-quality polyurethane that allows for intricate details and groves.
James Hardie
The ultimate alternative to wood, Hardie plank cladding is made from resilient, maintenance-free fibre cement. Their products provide all of the benefits of a stylish wooden façade with none of the hassle.
Made from natural materials, this products provides strength, durability and protection without compromise. It is also available in a wide range of colours to give your project the perfect finish.
Freefoam (fortex cladding)
Freefoam is one of the leading manufacturers of a wide range of advanced PVC-U fascia and soffit products. They also produce gutter systems, external cladding and interior panelling systems for the building industry on a multinational scale.
Edge Building products has been a supplier of the popular Fortex cladding range by Freefoam since 2017. Ever since we began to supply this range, the demand for Fortex has increased, with customers commenting often on the many benefits that this product line brings to their projects.
Zest
Our Zest range consists of high-quality, low-maintenance wall panels for bathrooms and wet rooms. We’ve been working with the brand, to make your bathroom projects simpler, for years – and there are always new designs and styles to explore.
Residence Collection
Residence 9 windows and doors are authentically designed to replicate traditional flush exteriors typically found on 19th Century heritage properties.
Their collections bring an impressive combination of design, innovation, and technological advancement. The R9 window and door system outperforms many other systems with a 9-chamber design, a 100mm front to back frame, 28mm double or 44mm triple glazing options with 3 bead aesthetics (decorative, square or staff), the ability to achieve A++ WER or 0.74 U-Value, and dedicated door sashes for outward and inward opening options.
Timco
Timco is one of the most trusted manufacturers of screws, fasteners, nails, adhesives, and other tools for the building industry. They run a family business with great, supportive values that, coupled with excellent products and service for over nearly 50 years, have created the trusted brand that they are today.
Soudal
Soudal is the biggest independent (EU) manufacturer of sealants, adhesives and foams for both trade and end users.
Soudal manufactures silicones and other sealants, polyurethane foams (pufoams), adhesives, hybrid polymers, technical aerosols and chemical building products. This extensive range of products means they provide solutions for many industries, workplaces and projects.
So we stock a wide range of their products to ensure you have what you need for your project!
More information
If you have any queries about the brands we work with, we’d be more than happy to help you. If you require a quotation just pop us an email to [email protected] or give us a call on 0345 021 3333.
You can also come and see some of our brands installed in our window and door showroom in our Chichester branch!