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As we look hopefully towards a warm spring, news outlets are quick to remind us that February 2024 saw the most rainfall and was the warmest in England and Wales since records began in 1836. In this topical climate, it is almost impossible to detach business interests from environmental concerns. We ask a lot from the materials we build with. They must be functional, durable, easy to work with, and low maintenance. Are they environmentally friendly as well? This blog will explore the environmental impact of uPVC windows and what can be done to reduce the carbon footprint of essential construction materials.
Difference between PVC and uPVC materials.
Conversations about the environmental impact of uPVC materials can be misleading. There are plenty of online articles that will discuss at length the greenwashing of construction suppliers. However, many of these articles will not differentiate between PVC and uPVC products. Not only does this undermine the environmental efforts of uPVC suppliers, but it also limits discussions on the environmental change possible in the construction industry.
PVC stands for Poly Vinyl Chloride. The principal environmental concern of this product is the presence of chloride. Chloride is not a renewable product as it is produced through industry treatment. Greenpeace is highly critical of the production of PVC products as the production of chlorine increases the environmental pollutants of local districts. Lots of common household and commercial items are produced using PVC plastic, such as plastic water bottles, cutlery, food bags, and clingfilm. As we know, these plasticised products are sometimes difficult to recycle at home. Many companies are making a conscious effort to reduce their consumption of PVC plastics by swapping single-use items and packaging to paper or bamboo-based products.
uPVC, however, identifies the product as being non-plasticised. This means that the material is sturdy and rigid, perfect for moulding into roofline and window trims. Although uPVC is still a Poly Vinyl Chloride product, its rigid structure makes it considerably easier to recycle than plasticised products, such as disposable shopping bags. uPVC building products also have a much longer lifespan than household PVC plastic does. For example, many window manufacturers offer a 10-year guarantee against the warp or discolouring of their windows from the point of installation. However, uPVC windows will remain functional long after these warranties have expired, with most having a typical lifespan of 20-35 years or more.
Why choose uPVC windows?
Maintenance and appearance
uPVC window products are a firm favourite for a lot of builders. Available in a vast range of colours and finishes, uPVC window products can seamlessly blend into a multitude of builds, from new build estates to property renovations. Unlike timber window products, uPVC windows are resistant to weathering and are low maintenance. They do not require regular treatments and will not rot away with all the wet weather we have been experiencing. uPVC windows simply require a wipe down every few months to keep them looking fresh. If you love the look of traditional timber windows, consider a uPVC window in a flush casement or sliding sash style to maintain the period features of your home without compromising durability.
Saving energy
Lots of us are looking for ways to reduce our heating costs. We want to be cosy at home, and our windows could be the key to keeping the warmth in. Therefore, while shopping for new uPVC windows, energy efficiency should be at the top of your requirements. By building or renovating your home using highly energy efficient products, you will be reducing the carbon footprint of your household. Here at Edge Building Products, we offer windows that are up to a fantastic A++ WER (Window Energy Ratings), but what does this mean for you? When the sun does shine on those chilly winter mornings or glorious summer afternoons, this heat will be radiating into your home, and then, rather than escaping through the glass, it will be reflected into the room. The weathertight seals also prevent any unpleasant drafts from entering your property, with the added benefit of improving the noise reduction of the windows. All of these features will increase the ambient temperature of your home without needing to adjust the thermostat. On that note, A++ energy efficiency will also save you money.
By keeping the heat produced by your radiators trapped within your home, it is estimated that you could save 14kWh per m2 each year compared to a standard A+ rated window. This saves you enough energy to do a 2kg load of washing every other day for a year!
Improved production techniques
However, we know that production methods are also important when picking an environmentally clean product. uPVC windows supplied by Edge BP are high-quality, energy efficient and 100% lead-free. This reduces the pollutants caused by the product process of uPVC windows and therefore reduces the carbon footprint of new uPVC windows. uPVC products, as they are non-plasticised, are also recyclable. The uPVC window products supplied by Edge BP, for example, are 100% recyclable. This means that as houses are being renovated and older uPVC products are removed, these items can be recycled to produce new uPVC products for future builds. uPVC windows will not naturally decompose, making them a durable and reliable product, so it is important to purchase from suppliers who are actively investing in recycling older uPVC to reduce waste going to landfills. If you are completing your own home renovation, be sure to contact a local waste management service to ensure any scrap uPVC is responsibly recycled.
Final thoughts:
While it can be difficult to juggle to demands of a home renovation – aesthetically beautiful, easy to maintain, and energy efficient -uPVC windows are an easy way to fulfil these important objectives while staying environmentally conscious.
uPVC windows improve the energy efficiency of homes by letting the warmth of the sun in and blocking any cold draughts from outside. Easy to clean and maintain, uPVC windows are durable and can withstand even the wettest of months. By purchasing uPVC windows that are 100% recyclable, you can rest easy knowing that by the end of their lifespan, your windows can be recycled and turned into new products.
Click here to check out our great range of uPVC window products.