The argument goes on as to whether or not UPVC windows or replacement windows are eco-friendly. The process required to make PVC is highly toxic and this, in turn, creates toxic by-products. In addition to this, it is highlighted that the biggest problem regarding UPVC windows is their disposal at the end of their useful life, which seems to range between 10 and 30 years. Some say that PVC is very easy to recycle, but others contradict this, pointing out that, in practice, very few PVC windows are recycled due to the difficulty of separating the components. Nor can it be incinerated due to its composition.

UPVC windows fade! Some turn yellow and while this is bad enough, others turn pink! There are several reasons given for this discoloration problem, but without going into too much unnecessary detail about the cause, the remedies are few. You can paint the windows, but isn’t the lack of need for painting one of the main reasons you wanted UPVC windows in the first place?

Bad weather or extreme severe weather conditions can cause cracking, expansion or warping in your PVC double glazed windows.

PVC windows are not that flexible in design or execution, this can hinder the creative artist in you when you are designing your rooms!

PVC windows are simply not as easy on the eyes as traditional windows. Again, this is a statement that is hotly disputed by the PVC fan club. In many cases, the argument depends on the type of building the windows go into. If they are being inserted into a modern new build structure that allows for the wider and bulkier window frame that PVC windows provide out of necessity, then they will look good. However, if you’re putting them in your turn of the century (19th century to 20th century), attractive brick row house, they might not fit so brilliantly.

Once you have installed UPVC windows, they cannot be easily removed if they need to be repaired. By this we do not mean simply changing a pane of glass, but rather structural repairs. This can make it more expensive to maintain, compared to a traditional window, that a regular carpenter or handyman will attempt.

So there you have it: something to think about if you’re thinking of tossing those wooden windows into the woodpile and investing in some shiny new PVC ones.