PVC VS UPVC Window: What are Differences?

As we all know, the selection of the windows involves many factors. And, the material is one of the important factors, because it relates to the features and lifespan of the windows. The PVC and uPVC are one of the hottest topics in the window industry. Most people wonder what their differences are. In this post, the author will give a full comparison between them.

PVC stands for Polyvinyl Chloride. It's a synthetic plastic polymer made from vinyl chloride monomers through a chemical process called polymerization. PVC is initially used in vinyl records. Then, after years, PVC is widely seen in various industries, because it has perfect mechanical properties.

uPVC stands for Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride. It's a modified and more specialized form of PVC, where the "unplasticized" aspect refers to the absence of plasticizers in its composition. This plasticizers is a chemical item that makes the uPVC more flexible.

Upvc Window

Although a pvc window and a uPVC window are similar, they are significantly different in several aspects, including material, features, surface, color, etc. In this section, a chart will be listed and the differences between them will be shown.
 

	PVC Window	uPVC Window
Differences	Contains various chemical compounds (plasticisers) that are harmful to the environment and can lead to health hazards	No plasticisers or any other dangerous substances
	Flexible	Rigid (stiff)
	Porous surface that require more maintenance to remove any stains	Low maintenance due to the smooth surface
	Only available in white colour	Available in a wide range of colours
	No customisation available	Customisable (can look like other materials – eg. wood)
	Low production cost	Extremely low production cost
	Average durability	Highly durable
	Not recyclable	100% recyclable

Materials

PVC contains various chemical compounds, known as plasticisers, which can pose environmental risks and health hazards. These substances, while enhancing flexibility, can have adverse effects. On the other hand, uPVC stands out as a safer alternative since it does not contain any harmful plasticisers or dangerous substances, making it environmentally friendly and safer for use.

Flexibility and Surface Maintenance

PVC is known for its flexibility but has a porous surface that tends to require more maintenance to remove stains and dirt. In contrast, uPVC boasts a rigid, stiff structure with a smooth surface that demands minimal maintenance. The absence of pores makes cleaning a breeze, enhancing its appeal for various applications.

Color Options and Customization

One limitation of PVC is its availability primarily in white color, restricting customization options. Conversely, uPVC offers a broader spectrum of color choices, enabling users to select from a wide range of colors to suit specific aesthetic preferences. Moreover, uPVC is highly customizable and capable of resembling other materials such as wood, providing versatility in design applications.

Production Cost and Durability

While both PVC and uPVC are cost-effective materials, uPVC stands out with an even lower production cost. Additionally, uPVC surpasses PVC in terms of durability. Its rigid structure and resistance to environmental factors contribute to its exceptional durability, making it an ideal choice for long-term applications where longevity is a priority.

Recyclability

An important environmental aspect is the recyclability of materials. PVC, unfortunately, is not easily recyclable due to its composition and the presence of harmful additives. On the contrary, uPVC scores high in sustainability, being 100% recyclable. Its eco-friendly nature aligns with modern environmental concerns, making it a preferred choice for those prioritizing sustainability.

Conclusion

Finally, PVC and upv windows are not the some products. Thus, the author hopes you can not be fooled by some window manufacturers after finishing this post. Some window manufacturers would mislead you that the PVC is the uPVC windows to get more profit. The author hopes this post can be a reference for you during the purchasing of the windows.