Wooden windows vs uPVC Common myths.
Wooden windows vs uPVC Common myths.
Windows – and the way we dress them – is a fundamental part of how our home looks and feels.
But more often than not, we overlook the type of windows to choose, which ones will add the most value and how best to maintain them.
It’s a task that should involve careful research, after all, your windows are viewed both inside and out.
So, are you currently thinking about replacing your windows? And how much do you actually know about all the options available to you?
MYTH: If you want double-glazing, you have to have uPVC windows
TRUTH: People often assume that double-glazed windows have to have uPVC frames. Believing wrongly that wood window frames are only for single glazed windows. This couldn’t be further from the truth. So you can still have beautiful double glazed wood windows that are energy efficient and will keep your home warm and draught-free.
MYTH: Wood will rot quickly, whereas uPVC windows will last the test of time and won’t discolour
TRUTH: Plastic degrades, whereas wooden windows have an estimated service life of around 60 years. That’s twice the life of uPVC windows. Plastic windows can become discoloured and brittle as a result of exposure to the sun and unlike wood framed windows, they can’t be repaired. In fact, once you maintain and repaint wood windows, their lifespan starts all over again. There’s plenty of evidence to suggest that well-maintained, good quality timber windows can last a century or more.
MYTH: uPVC adds value to your property
TRUTH: If you have a period home or a home in a conservation area, ugly uPVC windows could actually devalue it by as much as £20,000!
A national survey of estate agents by English Heritage found the unsympathetic replacement of windows and doors – particularly plastic and uPVC – to be the single biggest threat to property values in conservation areas. Separate research also suggests uPVC windows can decrease a house’s value and often dissuades prospective buyers from making an offer.
MYTH: Wood windows are simply too expensive, I can’t afford them
TRUTH: Because wood windows can last up to 60 years and can be maintained and re-painted. Unlike plastic windows, they actually work out less expensive over their lifespan.
Due to timber’s inherent strength, triple-glazing is more cost-effective with wood windows than with other materials.
And don’t forget the value that beautiful wood windows can add to your house, particularly if you’re considering selling. Wood windows are a worthwhile investment.
MYTH: Redecorating wood windows is hard work
TRUTH: Wooden windows come ready-painted from the factory to save you time.
They won’t need redecorating for 8-10 years. And even then, it’s an easy job – just light sand down, wipe clean and one or two top coats.
You won’t need to re-paint the tricky bits as it’s only the faces of the windows that get weathered.
MYTH: You need to strip your windows completely to change the colour
TRUTH: With wooden windows, if you want to change the colour to complement a new design scheme, you can (unlike PVC-u).
All you have to do is sand them down with fine sandpaper and repaint – simple!
MYTH: Wooden windows aren’t energy efficient, so it’s hard to save on bills
TRUTH: Wood has a very low thermal conductivity, which means it is a good insulator.
But the energy efficiency of a window actually has little to do with the frame material and is mostly affected by the specification of the glazing unit,
so well-designed windows have similar thermal efficiencies across the board, whatever material the frames are made from.
Wooden windows vs uPVC
Source: Olivia Heath – House Beautiful UK