What About UPVC Windows?
There’s nothing unusual in you having been contemplating a replacement of your present windows with uPVC ones. The idea crosses the mind of almost everybody, but most of us remain stuck with that question, “Must I do it”.
It’s difficult to answer this question with a simple yes or no, especially when we are aware that it will be a major home improvement project and costs quite high. The only way to get an answer to this question is to make an assessment of your present windows with regard to their energy efficiency, security and safety.
One major reason for loss of heat from your room is having ill-fitted inefficient windows. You certainly are spending money for generating heat in your room. So, it’s not heat that you are losing but it is money being thrown out of the window! Increased awareness about energy conservation is prompting most of the people to take remedial measures for conserving heat.
Quality uPVC windows are considered to be safer than conventional windows. Usually, these windows have built in multi-locking system within the framework, thus making it difficult to force them open. Further, these windows come with string glazing, making more noise when getting broken. That certainly deters intruders.
Of course windows allow outside air to enter and provide freshness. But, how about the entry of intruders? You can’t allow that. They need to be secured. Often we interpret security from outside elements. But what happens in case of an emergency? Would you window function to enable you escape under certain situations? Even children and the elderly should be able to open the window without much effort. Now, wooden windows are unable to retain their shape for long as wood tends to get warped up or swollen because climatic conditions. It’s almost impossible to close such windows tightly to prevent loss of heat. Even, uneven application of paint hinders their easy and proper operation. All these points must be kept in view while thinking of replacing windows.
Here’s how you could carry an analysis of your present windows:
*How long have they been around? Perhaps they are more than twenty years old, or may be more even.
*Examine them closely to check if they are already warped or rotten. They could have excessive coats of paints.
*Is it convenient to open or close these windows? At times they would leave a few gaps in closed mode. Now, that’s not good for retaining heat. These small gaps allow outside air to come in and let go inside air.
*Are they double-glazed? Single glazed windows allow loss of heat.
*Look for condensed water vapors on your window or its internal sill. You may find them in the early hours of the morning. Presence of such vapors is a sure indication of improper or insufficient insulation.
Replacement of existing windows with uPVC is an expensive affair. But, being energy efficient they help cutting down on your power bills, makes them a very viable option and they would have paid or themselves in the long run. Another encouraging factor is the better level of safety and security provided by them. You’ll have better peace of mind.