However, if you want leading security for your living space, then timber may have had its time. That's because modern uPVC and aluminium windows don't suffer from the drawbacks wooden windows still have. While you won't get the same authentic timber look, these windows are much more durable and long-lasting.
The casement window is considered the most secure type of window because, with no way to turn the crank from the outside, there's really no way an intruder could enter your home through the window if you're sure to close and lock it. No additional hardware is needed to make the casement window more secure.
uPVC windows are solid, impenetrable and virtually impossible to break into.
Wood Windows Are More Budget-Friendly In The Long Run
Wood is more energy efficient due to being naturally warm. When maintained, wood has a longer lifespan than uPVC. High-quality wood windows are more aesthetically pleasing which will drastically increase the value of your home compared with uPVC.
In general, if you're buying brand new windows, both uPVC and timber windows will give excellent energy efficiency and will look smart too. Year on year, window performance improves consistently.
UPVC does not contain any chemicals, rendering it a safe product for the environment. PVC is more porous and requires more maintenance over time, to remove surface stains. UPVC is a robust material and less porous, known for its thermal efficiency and durability. Not often used in window and door construction.
uPVC Should Last Between 20-35 Years.
Despite their robustness, uPVC windows and doors are prone to sagging and sashing due to their lightweight and also because they are structurally not as strong as aluminium windows. Too much heat can even result in the rupture of their frames.
Aluminium tends to be stronger than uPVC. That means that aluminium windows can have a slimmer appearance, and a larger glass surface area due to the strength of the frames. For this reason they're very popular with commercial and public buildings like schools, offices and government buildings.
Add a Sash Jammer to your uPVC Doors or Windows
Sash jammers are great extra security for any uPVC door or window, they are a cheap and quick way to improve your security.
One of the best ways to burglar-proof windows is to install polycarbonate safety shields, like DefenseLite, over your existing windows. Polycarbonate is 250 times stronger than glass and nearly impenetrable by would-be thieves.
In the past, double glazing windows were designed with a special beading on the exterior of the fixing to help hold the glass in place. This would create points of vulnerability in the windows that would make them easier for burglars to remove them, giving them access to your home and all your possessions.
A polycarbonate window is much more difficult to break through than a standard glass window. In fact, according to some estimates a polycarbonate window is over 200 times more resistant to impact! Compared to standard glass windows, they offer superior protection against burglaries and weather-related disasters.
You cannot install window air conditioners into casement windows due to the windows cranked outward. Air conditioners need windows which slide up and down to secure a window conditioner unit. Casement windows, in most cases, cannot have screens or storm windows.
Casement Windows
They are attractive, secure and tend to provide better energy efficiency than hung, slider and awning windows that are configured with standard glass and gas fills.
uPVC is naturally resistant to moisture, atmospheric pollutions, mould, and mildew. It does not rot, rust, blister, or flake, and is not affected by salt corrosion. This makes uPVC windows and doors a long lasting alternative to timber and aluminium frames.
Typically, a wood frame can last 10 to 20 years with regular upkeep — some professionals estimate they can even last 30 or more years — but if you neglect them, they can become damaged and warp, requiring premature replacement.
Maintenance: Wood requires more maintenance than vinyl or aluminum. Wood is more vulnerable to rot, termite infestation, and cracking or warping due to heat and moisture. Cracks and gaps in the wood can cause energy bills to rise.
The Upvc on the inner and outer frames is guaranteed from discolouration, but not from fading, for a period of ten years.
Typically lasting around 20 years, which can vary between 10-35 years depending on the quality and upkeep, if your uPVC windows were installed around 1999 it's likely that they could need replacing or at least repairing by now.
Newer coloured UPVC windows are usually manufactured solid, which is to say the colour permeates through the UPVC. This solid colour makes the windows highly resistant to fading. However, because they are coloured, noticeable fading will still occur over a period of fifteen to thirty years no matter their durability.
Although the initial installment cost of uPVC windows is higher than wooden windows, they are more cost-effective in the long run. Eco-friendly and easy to maintain, uPVC windows make an excellent choice for all homes.
Because of its high solid protection properties, UPVC soundproof windows and doors can help diminishes outside commotion by 80-95%.
Pros – uPVC doors are low maintenance and require no painting or staining. They are well insulated, more stable than timber and usually come with multipoint locking. Cons - Doors tend to have a 'narrow' appearance due to the thickness of the uPVC frame.