There are many factors to consider when choosing replacement windows for your Swansea home. Whether you live in a contemporary or traditional house, whether you are in a conservation area or on a busy road and even the amount of sunlight you get will all impact your choice of replacement window style.
UPVC
UPVC is an excellent choice for homeowners seeking both form and function from their fenestration solution. The durable material has low maintenance requirements and is compatible with a variety of design styles. It also provides a range of benefits, including high insulation, noise-cancellation and weather resistance.
uPVC (Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride) is a cost-effective building material used to replace painted wood frames, sills and guttering in new buildings and in replacement double-glazed windows in older homes. It is also a popular alternative to cast iron in drainage and water pipe systems.
Unlike PVC, which is flexible and contains toxins, uPVC does not contain plasticizers, making it stronger and less porous. It also resists rot, mildew and corrosion. UPVC windows and doors provide a thermal barrier that reduces energy bills by cutting heat loss during winter and heat gain during summer. Moreover, it can keep you safe from termites, which can destroy wooden windows and doors. It is fire-resistant and complies with international standards.
Aluminium
Aluminium is stronger than uPVC windows and allows the frames to be slimmer. This gives a sleeker appearance and lets more light into your home. Aluminium windows can also be finished in a wide variety of colours and finishes. This allows you to find the perfect match for your house. You can visit a showroom in Swansea to see the different options available.
These windows are energy efficient, too. They can prevent cold air from entering your home and warm air from escaping it, which helps reduce your energy bills. The aluminium frames have a polyamide thermal break, which helps to retain heat in the winter and cool air in the summer.
Customers can choose from more than 150 RAL colour options for their new aluminium windows. Depending on the style of their home, they can choose matt finishes, metallic shades or texture coatings for the frame. They can also add handles and hinges that are colour matched.
Wood
Wooden windows offer a classic beauty that can’t be beat, especially for period cottages and conversions. They are also highly energy-efficient, with robust glazing that helps to protect furnishings from sunlight and prevent draughts. They also maximise natural light in your home, making it more comfortable and brighter.
While many people think that oak, sash or mahogany are the best choices for window frames, Wallace says that strength isn’t always the most important factor when choosing a durable material for your windows and doors. Rather, it’s the “personality” of different types of wood that makes them suitable for windows.
For example, pine is inexpensive and works well in most environments. It’s a stable, durable material that doesn’t require regular painting or treating. It can withstand extreme temperatures and abrasions, so it’s ideal for use in windows. It can also be laminated with uPVC, which increases its strength and durability. This reduces expansion and contraction, which is a common problem with solid timber windows.
Composite
Composite is a mix of many different materials, such as plastics, straw and glue. It’s used in a wide range of applications, such as window frames and door panels. Some composites are even made from wood and aluminium, which gives them excellent energy efficiency.
Composites are also better at resisting weather conditions than vinyl. They are also more durable and easier to clean. They are also recyclable, which makes them a great choice for environmentally conscious homeowners.
Timber and aluminium composite windows are a popular option for those looking for a more natural look. They offer modern PVCU performance with the warmth and beauty of traditional timber. They also provide superior thermal insulation and security. These windows are available in a variety of styles, including flush casement and tilt-and-turn. You can also choose from a number of colours and textures. A premium composite will typically cost more than a basic model, but the difference in quality is worth it.windows swansea