PVC windows are best (alledgedly)

[ajbm]

hmmm, what's the consensus on Timber Composite windows?
I guess the aluminium facing has a major green impact, but this should be countered by the design life and lack of maintenance treatment with chemically suspect stains or paints?

Alex
http://www.designitout.blogspot.com

 

[rogerh]

But, since PVCu windows tend to be cheaper than timber...

Are you sure? Most new build seems to use wooden windows. I just had a quick look at Wickes's site and the cost for a similar casement window is £78 for timber and £127 for PVCu.

 

[rogerh]

I suspect that most of the conversion to UPVC is because the owners want double-glazing, and can only afford the cheaper plastic option. I've never seen a marketing campaign for wooden double-glazed windows, so it may be that a lack of knowledge makes the problem worse.

I suspect that it's nothing except marketing and that there's more money to be made flogging PVC than explaining that wood is both cheaper and better. It's not easy to persuade someone that they need timber windows to replace their timber windows.

 

[ajbm]

many timber windows are supplied without glazing and also need either priming or a finish coat of stain or paint. All this adds to the cost, so it is difficult to compare like with like.

Alex
http://www.designitout.blogspot.com

 

[rogerh]

True, although I'd still question whether or not PVCu has a price advantage. Too close to call, perhaps.