Are PVC-U Sash Windows Better Than Timber Sash Windows?

On paper, it would seem that PVC-U windows have it all – excellent thermal efficiency, ease of maintenance, strength, durability and good looks, among many other benefits.

Yet, despite the many advantages of PVC-U, it seems that many homeowners still think timber sash windows are better than PVC-U sash windows. And why wouldn’t they? Timber windows are stylish, traditional, and hard-wearing, and can be painted and re-painted according to taste. Wooden-framed windows have a lot going for them – but are they really better than PVC-U? Let’s look at the evidence…

PVC-U sash windows are low on maintenance compared to timber sash windows

One big advantage PVC-U has over wood is maintenance. While hard-wearing, wood needs regular care and attention to stop rot, paint flaking and warping. Once dampness takes hold, it’s almost inevitable that the frame will need replacing. And if you live in a coastal area, where damp air mixes with salt from the sea, your maintenance duties will be even more frequent.

Not so PVC-U. Maintenance is almost zero. A quick wipe-down to prevent dirt from building up is as much as you’ll need to do. PVC-U is non-corrosive and won’t rust or rot over time. This gives them a long lifespan – anything up to 20 years longer than timber – so in the long term, they are a great investment. Allied with this is thermal efficiency. A wooden window frame that is deteriorating is simply not going to match up to a longer-lasting PVC-U window. Every ECOSlide® window has a BFRC (British Fenestration Rating Council) energy rating of ‘A+’, and the combination of naturally-insulating PVC-U profile with modern double-glazed units means exceptional thermal performance.

Are PVC-U sash windows secure?

Another distinct advantage PVC-U has over wood is security. As we’ve said, timber weakens over time, leading to vulnerable points along the frame that can be exploited by burglars. PVC-U, on the other hand, is extremely strong.

Our ECOSlide® sliding sash window has a variety of security features including toughened glass, key-operated locks and travel restrictors, along with an extruded anti-jemmy bar in the sill, for added peace of mind.

What about style? Surely nothing beats the natural beauty of wooden frames?

It’s true that wood looks great, but advances in technology mean that our PVC-U looks just as good, especially now as they come in a wide variety of finishes and colours. For example, our Crystal White, Cream, Golden Oak and Irish Oak foils all mimic the texture of a timbered sash window for a realistic woodgrain appearance. We can also fit hardware and sash horns that would be used on traditional wooden sash windows, so you never need to lose the ‘look’ of timber when employing PVC-U.

What are the benefits of PVC-U sash windows?

In short, our ECOSlide® sash windows are the perfect solution for new window projects, or traditional properties looking for a cost-effective alternative to original timber windows with outstanding modern energy efficiency. They also feature an inward-opening tilt feature to allow for easy and safe cleaning from inside the property. That means our PVC-U sash windows are incredibly low maintenance, requiring only a quick wipe-down with a damp cloth to keep them looking good as new.

Every one of our windows is made to meet almost any personal requirements; with unlimited colour options, shaped frames, custom glass and our own exclusive range of hardware in a range of finishes.

What are sash style windows?

Sash windows are a traditional type of window consisting of one or more movable panels, known as sashes, that slide up and down or side to side to open and close. They are typically made up of a frame with rails and stiles and are still popular in many types of buildings, especially older and historic properties.

What is the difference between Georgian and Victorian sash windows?

Georgian sash windows generally have more panes, typically with six-over-six or eight-over-eight pane configurations and multiple glazing bars. Victorian sash windows usually have 4-6 panes and fewer glazing bars, often with a single glazing bar; later designs may have more than one. Victorian sash windows are typically larger and more decorative with curved or angled tops, while Georgian sash windows are simpler in design.