UPVC – the sustainable material homeowners have been waiting for

While modern technologies make it more cost-effective to control the heat or the cold indoors, the energy cost is increasing (as are the penalties for using fossil fuel). Also, the most advanced heating or cooling technologies are less effective if heat transfer between the interior and exterior is not well controlled. In short, well insulated homes stay warmer in winter and cooler in summer, making for a more comfortable environment and reducing energy costs. Insulation also reduces fire risk.

The US Department of Energy says that approximately 30% of a home’s heating energy is lost through windows, while 76% of sunlight enters to become heat in summer. This also depends on the quality of the doors and windows. So, the way a home is designed, and the materials used have been shown to have a significant impact on the climate comfort for residents.

Studies by REHAU show that window construction significantly reduces energy consumption. This impact is enhanced when other forms of insulation are used, such as wall and ceiling insulation. Depending on the glazing type, peak energy use in Durban and Johannesburg was shown to be reduced by 23-76%, and in Cape Town by 47-60%.

uPVC has long been the preferred material for energy-efficient windows and doors in Europe, America, and Asia. New uPVC technology is making uPVC window and door frames cheaper, overriding what was previously a disincentive. uPVC’s insulating properties are one reason it is such a good material for door and window frames. Frames made from this material are also fully watertight and minimise drafts – huge factors for day-to-day comfort.

Non-conductivity also plays a role in an often-neglected area: noise reduction. Well-constructed windows can significantly reduce noise from the outside, which affects the well-being of inhabitants especially in noisy neighbourhoods. 

Sustainability is increasingly important, including recycling at the end of a building’s life. to uPVC is fully recyclable into new frames, which aligns with the drive towards a circular economy.