PVCu or uPVC has been used within construction for over 50 years as a key material that is heavily relied upon within the industry. The material is used because of its wide range of properties that make it great for use in residential and commercial buildings. Here, we will discuss the benefits of PVCu and why it is so widely used across building projects.

Why use PVCu?

PVCu (unplasticised Poly Vinyl Chloride) has been used in window and door manufacturing since the 1980’s due to its durability and strength. It is a great choice for use within construction as it also effectively protects and insulates buildings. Here are several reasons why it is used by tradespeople and manufacturing businesses:

Weather resistance

PVCu is used in the manufacture of windows and doors due to its impressive properties. It is a very strong material that can easily be modified and welded. Multi-chambered PVCu provides superb weather performance, which makes it great for long term use in fixture manufacturing and construction. It is impact-resistant and impervious to problems such as rust, rot and mould making it a low maintenance solution – a regular wipe over will keep it clean and looking fresh. Choosing PVCu windows and doors will help to safeguard the building against extreme weather conditions. The material is waterproof and when fabricated in conjunction with efficient components the PVCu windows and doors can achieve unbeatable weather ratings.

Windows and doors from Quickslide come in a range of configurations and are manufactured using a sculptured PVCu profile available in carefully selected range of finishes. The wood effect finish allows to design a solution that mimics the look and feel of a traditional casement window but with the added benefits of durability and thermal efficiency.

PVCu does not biologically decompose

PVCu is one of the most durable materials available and you can rest assured that it will retain its form for decades to come. The material will not warp, fade or peel, and unlike metals, PVCu is non-conductive. This means that the material will not transfer cold from the outside to the inside, which can contribute to a more consistent internal living temperature.

Easy to fabricate and install

The process to create PVCu fixtures is straightforward – by heating the material it can be welded and/or bent into a shaped window frame if required. The material is highly flexible and strong, which provides end users with several window configurations to choose from. Fixtures made of PVCu are lightweight and thereby easy to install.

PVCu is durable and adaptable

PVCu can be recycled by reshaping it at hot temperatures, creating less waste and putting less unnecessary strain on the environment. PVCu can be recycled several times before it loses its composure and structural integrity, which means that a single recycled fixture made from PVCu can offer hundreds of years’ worth of usage. PVCu is challenging the construction industry to waste less and recycle more, with less waste made from this material going to landfill before it has been exhausted of its function. Because of its reusability, PVCu became the first material to be independently awarded an A+ material sustainability rating by the Building Research Establishment.

In conclusion, PVCu is widely used and relied upon within construction and manufacturing, with many benefits and properties that will ensure it is continued to be utilised for years to come.