The Problems With UPVC Windows – Should You Choose Wood?
19 November 2024
The debate between wood and UPVC windows has been going on for years, with people comparing the advantages and disadvantages of each material to make their decision. UPVC windows are often used for their low maintenance, however they lack the character and energy efficiency of wooden frames.
Wooden windows offer a classic aesthetic, better insulation and are more eco – friendly. To choose between wood and UPVC windows, you need to consider factors like style, the area in which you live, sustainability and maintenance requirements.
This guide will explore the problems with UPVC windows and why wood may be the best choice for you, ultimately answering the debate, wood vs UPVC windows.
Common Problems with UPVC Windows
Durability Issues in UPVC Windows
UPVC windows can become brittle over time, and are prone to discolouration when exposed to sunlight for long periods of time. Timber, however, can be maintained for decades with the right care, whereas UPVC’s structural integrity will decline, creating the need for replacement.
Environmental Concerns with UPVC
To produce UPVC, you need non-renewable materials which makes it less environmentally friendly than wood. It has limited recyclability, again making it a less sustainable choice than wooden windows. If you’re eco-conscious, wooden windows are definitely the choice for you.
Aesthetic Limitations of UPVC
UPVC windows usually lack the charm that matches up with period properties that have a classic aesthetic. Wooden windows however, give your home a timeless look that will increase the character of older properties, as well as meeting conservation area rules, where UPVC is often not permitted.
Wood vs UPVC Windows: A Comparison
Thermal Insulation: Wood vs UPVC Windows
Wood, as a natural material, offers far better insulation compared to UPVC, due to its dense composition, which helps it keep heat in more effectively in cold months, and keep your interior cold in warm months. Wooden windows, with added double glazing or triple glazing boosts energy efficiency, reducing the need for heating and air conditioning.
- Wood: Great insulator, can be paired with double or triple glazing for better performance.
- UPVC: Insulative, but less effective than wood.
Longevity: Comparing UPVC and Wood Windows
Wooden windows, when looked after properly, can outlive you, outlasting UPVC in most cases. While UPVC frames are durable, they can often become brittle and discoloured over time, when exposed to sunlight for long periods of time.
- Wood: Can last a lifetime with proper maintenance, can be repaired over time
- UPVC: Durable, but is prone to deterioration and discolouration, if it breaks, the whole thing needs replacing
Maintenance Considerations
UPVC windows may require less initial maintenance, as they don’t require painting or sealing. However, they are hard to repair and more often than not need full replacement. Wooden windows, depending on the material, may need painting or sealing every 6-10 years, but this ensures they last the test of time.
- Wood: Requires some upkeep (painting and sealing) but is repairable and restorable
- UPVC: Low maintenance, but limited options to repair if damaged
Problems with UPVC Sash Windows
Sash Window Functionality Issues
UPVC sash windows are often marketed as a low-maintenance option, however they are prone to various operational problems. Plastic frames can expand or contract when the temperature changes, which can cause sticking, jamming and misalignment. This can compromise the smooth sliding action that sash windows are often chosen for, leading to issues with opening, closing and locking the windows.
- Functional Problems: Prone to jamming and sticking when exposed to temperature change
- Longevity of Mechanisms: Sliding mechanisms can wear out faster in UPVC windows compared to wood
Security Concerns with UPVC Sash Windows
Compared to wooden sash windows, UPVC often doesn’t provide the same security as wood. While most modern UPVC windows do use modern locking systems, the plastic is still vulnerable to break ins, especially when it’s older. Also, the design of UPVC sash windows often doesn’t allow the use of heavy-duty, locking systems, which are better for security.
- Weakness: UPVC can be forced open a lot easier than solid wood
- Lock Integration: Heavy-duty locking options often can’t be used
Why Choose Wood Over UPVC Sash Windows?
Aesthetics and Style
Wooden sash windows give a timeless charm that can enhance the beauty of modern and period properties. Unlike UPVC, which looks out of place in traditional settings, wooden frames complement the historic architecture and add elegance and luxury to new builds. Wood allows for a variety of finishes and offers you more freedom in design.
- Natural Luxury: Complements both new and old designs
- Customisation: Paint, finishes, stains and varnishes to match any style.
Wood’s Insulating and Soundproofing Qualities
Wooden sash windows are not only great for energy efficiency, they are also great sound insulators, creating a quieter indoor environment, a great benefit for busy areas like London.
- Energy Efficiency: Keeps your interior comfortable across all seasons
- Great Sound Proofing: Reduces external noise, more so than UPVC
Cost Comparison: UPVC vs Wood Windows
Upfront and Long-Term Costs
The upfront cost of UPVC windows is likely to be lower than wooden windows, making it a budget-friendly option in terms of initial expenses. However, wooden windows will provide better value over time due to their durability and easy maintenance. In most cases, the lifespan of wood, along with its energy saving values will outweigh the lower initial cost of UPVC, making wood a better long-term investment.
- UPVC: Lower initial cost but can require replacement sooner
- Wood: Higher initial cost, but a better long term investment
Environmental Impact: UPVC vs Wood Windows
UPVC’s Carbon Footprint
UPVC windows require a high level of energy consumption and rely on non-renewable fossil fuels. Also, disposing of them results in landfill waste, harming the environment.
Sustainability of Wooden Windows
Todi & Boys wooden sash windows and wooden casement windows are a much more sustainable choice. We use timber from sustainable sources. Also, timber is renewable, biodegradable and can be recycled. The production process for wooden windows is a lot less harmful to the environment, as it produces less carbon emissions than UPVC.
- Renewable and Biodegradable
In summary, there are benefits to both UPVC and wooden windows, but if you’re looking for better value for money, less carbon footprint and a warmer and quieter home, then wooden windows are definitely for you.
Fore more information, or to enquire about wooden windows, contact us at Todi & Boys, we specialise in timber sash windows, timber casement windows and timber French doors in London and surrounding areas.
