PVC-U has many, many benefits which are much publicised, along with a few that aren't quite so well known.

Did you know, for example, that a PVC-U window frame can be recycled about ten times? That's a window with around a 400 year lifespan! The main advantage associated with PVC-U is the fact that it is such a versatile product and unlike the blockish old-fashioned “plastic windows” of the 1960s, today's frames could easily be confused with beautifully painted or varnished timber.

VEKA plc is an industry leader in PVC-U design innovations and to qualify to join Network VEKA, companies must use quality VEKA products. Committed to customer satisfaction, VEKA developed the sought-after Matrix Fully Sculptured System in 2004. Soft, delicately bevelled and beautifully understated - this type of frame brings out the best in any home.

PVC-U is extremely low maintenance, requiring only a very occasional wipe with warm soapy water. It is also incredibly energy efficient, replacing your old fashioned timber frames with PVC-U and double glazing can significantly increase the energy efficiency of your home, saving you a lot of money on your heating bills AND helping save the planet!

Unlike timber, your PVC-U home improvements will never need to be repainted, they will not swell and stick and they won't rot, warp or crack. VEKA's luxurious white-on-white windows offer all the good looks of clean, newly painted wood frames - with none of the upkeep problems.Along with thermal and sound insulation, PVC-U windows and doors also offer much improved security, providing a formidable barrier against intruders.

In new-build projects, PVC-U currently accounts for over 80% of all installations, and this figure is even higher in the replacement windows market. More and more people are realising the many varying benefits of this strong and durable, sustainable material. Even way back in 1986, VEKA could see the advantages of using PVC-U technology over other timber or metal products.

As an industry-leading manufacturer, VEKA now supplies Network VEKA with technically advanced PVC-U window systems which offer a host of benefits, including:

Minimal maintenance - No sanding, painting and varnishing, just an occasional wipe over with warm soapy water and a spot of oil on the hinges where needed.

Stylish good looks - PVC-U Fully sculptured and bevelled windows are virtually indistinguishable from the finest soft and hardwood timber frames, but entirely resistant to splitting, warping and insect attack.
 
Impact and weather resistance - Impact-modified PVC-U profiles can withstand the worst that the British weather can throw at them
 
Strength and rigidity - All VEKA windows offer exceptional strength and rigidity thanks to their innovative multi-chamber design.

Security – Security features are built into VEKA's windows at the design stage, rather than bolted on as an afterthought.
   
Energy efficiency – VEKA's was the first window system in the UK to be granted an ‘A’ on the BFRC rating system. By 2016 every new domestic property in the UK will need to have ‘A’ Rated windows, the highest level of energy efficiency.

Thermal properties – PVC-U is a poor heat conductor, making it ideal for double glazed or triple glazed window surrounds. Very little heat is lost through the frame itself.

Sound reduction – The installation of PVC-U double glazed or triple glazed windows will dramatically reduce the volume noise generated by traffic, aircraft or noisy neighbours.

Condensation – Quality PVC-U windows help to eliminate the cold bridge which can lead to condensation problems.
 
Longevity – Second generation PVC-U windows from VEKA will continue to look good and perform flawlessly for decades.

Fire safety – PVC is non-toxic and meets all international health and safety regulations. It is inherently difficult to ignite and stops burning as soon as the source of heat is removed.

Value adding - High quality PVC-U windows are likely to add substantial value to your home. They will improve visual appearance, security, energy efficiency and provide effective thermal and sound insulation.

Environmental factors – VEKA was the world’s first window systems company to recognise the importance of recycling PVC-U windows.

In 1993, VEKA designed and built a technologically advanced recycling facility in Behringham Germany, capable of recycling any old PVC-U frames and turning them into, amongst other things, new PVC-U windows. VEKA has also now opened recycling plants in France and the UK.