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Replacing windows - PVC windows

  • 22-03-2025 05:14PM
    #1
    deeperlearning
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 262 ✭✭


    We plan on replacing the windows in our 4-bed semi this coming Autumn.

    We are considering PVC windows.

    Are there any major issues to consider when choosing PVC?

    Should we consider Aluclad instead?

    Our supplier is a major company based in Cork.

    We would like to choose a dark grey colour for the windows. I prefer the look of those compared to the lighter silver grey.

    Would we be better off choosing a lighter colour due to possible fading?



Comments

  • #2
    encorton1
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7 ✭encorton1


    some differences between them, which you may take into consideration:

    • PVC will be cheaper than aluclad, so it can be a saving for you if you are looking to reduce costs.
    • PVC life span is about half that of aluclad (hence why it is cheaper as well).
    • PVC does not support large openings very well, so you may be limited in how big you can get your doors or opening windows.
    • PVC will have more visible weld lines post production which you may not like.
    • PVC is considerably easier to repair and maintain as well as find people willing to work on. Aluclad is a lot more niche.
    • Glass in PVC is accessed from the inside of the house, making replacement much more convenient. Glass in Aluclad is glued to the frame and is usually only accessible from the outside.

    Color degradation will happen in both products, so that should not stop you from choosing a color you want. Also, in some situations, the paint on the aluminium parts of the aluclad windows can fade quicker.



  • #3
    deeperlearning
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 262 ✭✭deeperlearning


    Thank you @encorton1. This is a very good summary.



  • #4
    hesker
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,569 ✭✭✭hesker


    Frames are wider on PVC which can make quite a difference with bow windows



  • #5
    deeperlearning
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 262 ✭✭deeperlearning


    Fortunately, I don't have bow windows. Hopefully, it won't look too bad.



  • #6
    monseiur
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 1,566 ✭✭✭monseiur


    The only issue with uPVC windows in general (including the Cork supplier with the province in it's name!) is that the locking mechanisms seem to rot in jig time. I guess most of the manufacturers get their ironmongery from the same suppliers - probably imported from China.



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  • #7
    encorton1
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 7 ✭encorton1


    https://www.boards.ie/discussion/comment/123294291#Comment_123294291

    It’s pure lottery with that company, but they are very cheap and people fall for it.



  • #8
    deeperlearning
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 262 ✭✭deeperlearning


    Thank you.



  • #9
    Nigzcurran
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 3,506 ✭✭✭Nigzcurran


    I have uPVC windows installed from Munster joinery about 17 years now and they are in superb condition so it really is hit and miss with them. The front door wasn't the greatest quality and was replaced with a composite door but they get a hard life and I wouldn't expect them to last as long as the windows

    Time is contagious, everyone is getting old.



  • #10
    27cyrix
    Registered Users, Registered Users 2 Posts: 132 ✭✭27cyrix


    Out of topic.

    Have you try to get quote from NI and UK based company?

    The quotes I got from Irish company for uPVC windows are double the quote I got from NI/UK.

    For uPVC in most cases, they all use the same uPVC profile to assemble the window.



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