Why uPVC is the perfect choice for kiwi homes

UPVC is a popular joinery choice for windows and doors in Europe and North America. For its aesthetically stylish look and its superior durability, uPVC has become the global standard of joinery around the globe. It’s also low maintenance, sustainably produced and lasts for decades.

It’s only a matter of time before New Zealanders catch on to the benefits of uPVC. 

What is UPVC? 

UPVC or unplasticized polyvinyl chloride, is a durable form of plastic joinery that enhances thermal efficiency in your home. UPVC provides a secure foundation for double or triple glazed windows and doors. Despite being made from plastic, it doesn’t contain BPA or phthalates and is one of the most sustainable joinery options on the market.   

UPVC is slightly more expensive than other joinery on the market, but the difference in upfront cost is negligable when compared to the energy savings achieved through uPVCs superior thermal insulation. When it comes to benefits it outperforms all other materials including double glazed aluminium windows and doors – a popular joinery choice in New Zealand. Here are just some of the reasons more Kiwi homeowners are investing in uPVC.  

Benefits of UPVC Windows and Doors 

1. uPVC windows and doors are extremely cost-effective 

UPVC windows and doors are more expensive than other joinery on the market. But it's not just the upfront cost of joinery that counts. UPVC is the most thermally efficient joinery on the market. With almost zero heat transfer between indoors and out, your home will stay warmer in the winter, cooler in the summer, and you’ll use less energy heating and cooling your home day to day.  

2. uPVC windows and doors are low maintenance 

UPVC windows and doors are very low maintenance. Their durable plastic frames make them ideal for using in coastal areas as the plastic will not rust, corrode or warp even after a decade in the sun. Cleaning your uPVC frames is simple. You can wash your frames with dish soap, water and a micro-fibre cloth. More importantly, you don’t need to clean your uPVC frames very often. A little maintenance every six months will keep them in perfect condition.  

3. uPVC windows and doors are highly durable  

UPVC are the strongest frames on the market and won’t rot, warp or corrode the way aluminium or timber framing can over time. Their steel reinforced frames are also made to withstand New Zealand’s harsh conditions from excessive sun to strong winds and driving rain and coastal winds. The durability of uPVC makes them a great choice for homeowners looking for added protection from cyclones, storms or bad weather. UPVC also comes in a wide range of colours that don’t need to be repainted every five years. Once installed, you can rest assured that your home will benefit from an added layer of protection. 

4. uPVC windows and doors are energy-efficient 

When it comes to energy efficiency, uPVC windows and doors have the highest thermal rating of timber or aluminium and can help households save money on their energy bills. This is because it takes less energy to heat your home to a comfortable standard. And once your home is heated, it takes less energy to keep it warm. With uPVC your home will trap heat easier and prevent heat from escaping when the temperature drops. Many households find they use their heating less or can set it to a lower temperature after uPVC is installed in their home.  

5. uPVC can last for generations 

UPVC can last for generations thanks to its durable materials. What’s even better is that it’s one of the most sustainable options on the market. Fenestra uPVC is crafted from recycled materials and old frames can be broken down and recycled into new frames.