Plastic/UPVC windows at a glance
One type of material for windows that is popularly used in modern homes and buildings is PVC. PVC, or polyvinyl chloride, is the result of a combination of different types of chemicals, plasticizers, and pigments. This combination makes PVC material strong yet lightweight and easy to assemble with components from different materials.
PVC material that is not equipped with plasticizers is called UPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride). UPVC is solid, durable, water and fire resistant. This material is then developed into a frame or frame for double glazed windows, sliding glass windows, and ordinary glass windows. Those who live in areas with high noise levels can sleep better, because UPVC window frames are also able to muffle loud sounds from areas outside the house. UPVC frames are also able to retain heat and help maintain warm temperatures in the house. These properties make UPVC an ideal building material, especially for homes in cold areas.
Advantages and disadvantages of Plastic/UPVC windows
Are you looking for the best material for home window frames? The explanation of the advantages and disadvantages of UPVC window frames below can be your reference material.
Excess:
1. Compared to wooden window frames, UPVC window frames are more economical in terms of price. It can be an effective solution for those who are building or renovating a house on a tight budget. For comparison, the current price of UPVC window frames is IDR 215 thousand per meter (not including glass), while the price of wooden window frames is IDR 300 thousand per meter.
2. UPVC window sills will not rust, rot, or warp due to age or weather. Homeowners can save on maintenance or repainting costs. These frames are available in a variety of color choices, from wood tones to solid colors such as blue, red, and dark green.
3. UPVC material cannot be degraded by natural processes, but it can be recycled. By using UPVC material, we don't have to feel guilty because we use wood from the forest whose area is decreasing.
4. There are various choices of glass according to thickness for UPVC window frames. The simple shape of the UPVC window is perfect for a minimalist style house or a modern style house.
5. UPVC window frames do not need to be replaced unless the condition is really unfit for use. Replacing UPVC window frames will not be difficult, because this type of frame is quite easy to install.
Deficiency:
1. Although durable, UPVC window frames last up to 15 years at most. This type of frame which is white can fade and yellowish due to exposure to the weather. As a result, the appearance of the house becomes less attractive.
2. UPVC window sills do not last long against fire. In the event of a fire, the vinyl content will release toxic fumes into the surroundings.
3. The appearance of UPVC window frames is not as attractive as wooden window frames which can reveal natural fibers. This causes this type of frame to be less suitable for classic houses, colonial styles, and rustic styles.
4. PVC window sill parts are not sold separately, so it will be quite difficult if the window knob is lost or damaged.
5. Although easy to install, does not mean that UPVC window frames are easy to remove. Dismantling these frames requires special skills by experts in the field of UPVC window repair.
How to install Plastic/UPVC window frames
If the homeowner is sure that he wants to replace his old windows with UPVC windows, here are the things he needs to know before carrying out any demolition or installation work:
1. Checking
Homeowners need to ensure that the room and the area around the windows are in a suitable condition for the demolition and installation of UPVC windows. It is worth checking whether the windows are adjacent to telephone cables, television antenna cables, etc. The walls around the windows must be solid and not hollow.
Then the homeowner can determine the style, shape of the knob, and the size of the UPVC window frame before ordering or buying it. Before dismantling the old window, it is necessary to measure the size of the window opening. The size of the new window frame must be 10 mm smaller in both length and width than the size of the window opening.
In order for the process of disassembling and installing windows to run smoothly, all furniture and electronic devices around the windows must be removed.
2. Dismantling old window frames
Re-checking the size of the new window frame needs to be done to find out whether the size is the same as the size of the old window frame. Carefully disassemble the old window sill. Try not to break down many parts of the wall so that later there are not many parts that must be patched.
If the old window frame is a glass window, remove the glass before moving the old window frame elsewhere. Workers or homeowners should wear construction gloves before performing this work to prevent their hands from scratching the corners or edges of the glass.
3. Installing new UPVC window sills
Remove the cover of the UPVC window frame and install the screws on the base of the frame. Selection of the right type of screw needs to be done so that the screw does not pierce the frame too deep. Cover the bottom edge of the frame and the edge of the frame with cement to prevent moisture. Run the thread straight between the two sides of the window opening. Then install a new UPVC window frame in the window hole. Make sure that the position of the frame is completely straight and parallel to the thread.
After the cement layer has dried, these parts are drilled precisely at the points where the jamb screws will be installed. Drilling is also carried out on the window sills. Then tighten the screws so that the frame appears to stick to the cement layer, but try not to tighten the screws on the right and left of the frame. The screws at the top and bottom of the frame must be really tight, so that the frame does not come off if at any time the house is hit by a storm. The edges of the screw holes should be covered with silicone to prevent moisture. Remove any remaining brick or cement dust adhering to the frame and the area around it.
4. After the UPVC window frame is firmly in place, the glass is ready to be installed on the frame.
5. Finishing.
After the new window is finished, the glass surface will need to be cleaned. Sealant or silicone glue needs to be applied in the area between the wooden window frame and the wall.
Another alternative that you can choose is wooden windows or skylights, if you have a flat roof (not corrugated like tile). If you are not sure what window is suitable for your home, contact our experts directly.
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