Buying and Specifying PVC-U Windows

Specifying for a project

Many specifications encountered contain redundant requirements. For instance, there is no need for any specification to repeat the requirements contained within product standards such as BS 7412. The Windows Group have produced a model specification, which is designed to allow a specification writer to ensure that all necessary aspects are included without repetition or confusion. Where classes of performance are available, this document attempts to give guidance as to the appropriate class to be selected without costly over-specification.

By adhering to the guidance in this document, any chance of mistakes caused by confusion, or misleading information, will be minimised. It can also lessen costs by reducing over-specification whilst helping to make more accurate comparisons between potential suppliers.

BPF Windows Group Factsheet 1 - Model Specification

If you would like to speak to a BPF Windows Group member who could advise
you on the specification of your windows and doors, then please click here

Hopefully the information provided above will help you to make the right decisions throughout the specification process.

Further information can be found in the BPF Windows Group Factsheet 2: Specifying for a project.

Want to learn the history of windows? Click here.

Buying a Window For Your Home

Once you have decided to improve your home by having new windows and/or doors fitted you will be faced with a number of very important choices, all of which would have a significant impact on your satisfaction with the final outcome.

We hope that by reading through the information supplied below and taking a little time to do some research you will get the windows and doors you want with the minimum amount of fuss.

The points listed below should all be considered one-by-one, as they can all impact on the look and durability of the windows/doors you have fitted:

What are the benefits of PVC-U windows and doors? PVC-U windows have been installed in this country for over 50 years with great success. The Building Research Establishment (BRE) gave them a Reference Service Life (a way of comparing the life of building products based on their inherent properties, the care taken with their use and maintenance) of at least 35 years. Properly used and maintained, PVC-U windows can be expected to last much longer. Should components fail, PVC-U windows are designed to have replaceable parts.
What design should be chosen? Sympathetic design is important to the aesthetic appearance of a home. Many different styles and types of operation are available from most PVC-U systems and, in conservation areas and in listed buildings, planning permission may be required. The BPF have produced two documents to help you through the process.
How secure will the windows and doors be? In modern times, security has become more important to deter opportunistic burglars while still retaining the useability of the windows and doors. It is important to ask window installers whether they are aware of PAS 24, which is the national standard for measuring burglary resistance and Part Q of the Building Regulations, Security in Dwellings, with which they have to comply by law.
What is the best glazing option? Building Regulations specify a minimal thermal performance of windows and doors, but buyers may choose to go beyond the minimum performance. Various different technologies exist to improve the performance of the whole window or door. One way of assessing that performance is through Window Energy Ratings and Door Energy Ratings. The British Fenestration Ratings Council www.bfrc.org is the principle provider of Certificates for the thermal performance using the well-known A++ to G rainbow symbol. Installers should have the information readily available for buyers
Choosing an installer Replacement windows are governed by Building Regulations. Installers MUST comply with the law. They might be members of a Competent Persons Scheme, which are Government-approved, tightly controlled schemes where installers are regularly checked to ensure that they comply with the law. The largest of these schemes is Fensa www.fensa.org.uk The alternative is to use Local Authority Building Control although this may be more expensive. Such schemes only apply to the legal requirements and not the overall quality. For that, installers should be asked about any third-party accreditation/certification schemes of which they are a member (such as Kitemark). If you know of family, friends or neighbours who have had replacements, ask them about their experience with their installers. Recommendations can be one of the most important factors in choosing an installation company www.bpf.co.uk/windows/About_The_Group
What about guarantees? It is a requirement that all installers offer an Insurance Backed Guarantee which covers any issues should the installation company cease to trade. Installers will be able to provide details of their Guarantee.
Further Information/Links: Learn more aout using the UKCA marking - Using the UKNI marking - CE marking - Construction Products Regulation in Great Britain

Hopefully the information above has helped you to make a more informed choice and given you the confidence to have new windows and/or doors fitted. However, if you do have a specific question which has not been answered above, please contact the British Plastics Federation.

Further information can be found in the BPF Windows Group Factsheet 3: Buying a window.

Want to learn the history of windows? Click here.

Fire Performance of PVC-U Windows

Most PVC formulations are not only difficult to ignite, they will also self-extinguish when the flame source is removed. All PVC-U window profiles manufactured by BPF Members are fully compliant with UK Building Regulations. When bonded to a satisfactory substrate, PVC-U profiles can achieve Class 1 rating and specifically formulated PVC-U compositions can achieve the most stringent Class 0 rating.

Below is a list of supporting documents about Fire Safety credentials of PVC available for downloading:

- PVC in Accidental Fires - March 1987

- BPF PVC In Fires - March 1987

- Fire Performance UPVC Window Frames

- FRS Report

- FRS Full Report

- Fire and PVC - The Vinyls Institute