What’s the difference between PVCu & uPVC?
It’s a question that’s plagued unbeknownst homeowners all over the globe for decades, but really, the difference between PVCu and uPVC becomes all the clearer when you realise that there really isn’t one. Anyone who’s considered a new set of windows or doors for their home might have come across these two conflicted terms, but now Associated Windows are determined to help clear up any confusion once and for all!
There is absolutely no difference!
As previously mentioned, the terms PVCu and uPVC refer to the exact same material. The material being Un-plasticised Poly Vinyl Chloride. It’s the most popular choice of material in home improvement for a variety of reasons, but the biggest one is just how affordable it is when compared to the likes of sleek aluminium and engineered timber. It’s also inherently flexible, so makes sense for almost every type of project.
Outside of home improvement or construction, standard PVC is a plastic most commonly found in designer products like shoes and bags. As a counterpart, should you see the letter ‘u’ featured either on the beginning or end of this phrase, it refers to the fact that a few additives have been added to the material for increased strength and durability.
Different meanings in different industries circles
So why is there such a discrepancy in using the two terms? European standards. You see, uPVC originally started out as such, before officially being renamed PVCu in the late 1980s to fall in line with Europe. Why do this? Simple because many systems company providing frames using the material are based outside of the UK in places like Germany. It’s called PVCu in places like this because most European languages place the noun (PVC) in front of the adjective (U).
Fast forward to the 21st century, and these days, uPVC is typically the term taking on by home improvement companies selling directly to homeowners. PVCu, on the other hand, has become the colloquial term amongst suppliers and systems companies working in a B2B capacity with installers. On average homeowners researching windows and doors will most likely come across uPVC more prominently.
The most popular window material
We at Associated Windows are huge advocates of uPVC as a window, door, and conservatory material choice. This is because it’s low maintenance to suit into our customers’ busy lifestyles, is resistant to weathering, and is easily shaped as mentioned earlier. Reasons like this are why it remains the UK’s most popular material, being tailorable to most applications and project needs.
Industry-leading uPVC products from Associated Windows
Hopefully that’s helped clear up one of the most confusing subjects of the home improvement industry. Once again, there really is no difference between uPVC and PVCu. If you have a renovation in mind for which you believe uPVC would be suitable, get in touch with a member of the team here today.
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