uPVC windows that look like timberIn the not so distant past, wood was the sole material used for window frames. And although wood is still used today, uPVC is now used to create windows that match the designs of traditional timber versions. But the question is, are these timber effect windows better than the real thing? Let’s take a closer look and find out.

Will timber effect windows rot?

Wooden windows commonly experience rot, especially those in moisture-rich areas. If the amount of rot is severe, the integrity of the window can be compromised, which is a big security risk. To properly rectify cases of severe rot, a replacement window might be required. Conversely, uPVC is immune to rotting, meaning wood effect windows will not suffer from this issue. Termites, the small, pesky insects that eat wood, can also be a problem for timber windows.

Do uPVC windows require less upkeep than timber?

In order to prevent timber windows from succumbing to rot, they need to be retreated every few years. Factoring this in along with the time spent to clean them and the number of windows on your house, you’ll end up spending a lot of your spare time taking care of them. However, because of the wipe clean nature of uPVC, all timber effect windows will require is the odd wipe down to keep looking their best. This will leave you with more free time to spend as you please.

Do timber windows look better than uPVC?

Quite frankly, wood is a beautiful material, meaning a set of real wood windows will bring the added benefit of improving your home’s visual appeal. However, wood effect window frames are finished in high-quality woodgrain foils. These allow them to replicate the appearance of actual timber grains incredibly well. The Residence Collection have also been designed to the dimensions of 19th-century timber windows, ensuring they look just as good as the real thing.

Can I have uPVC windows in conservation areas?

If you live in a conservation area or a listed building and you currently have timber windows, you may only be able to replace them with a like for like replacement. However, this isn’t always the case because timber effect windows are regularly approved for use in these areas too.

Is uPVC a better insulator than timber?

Real wood windows and timber effect windows are extremely difficult to separate in terms of thermal efficiency. This is because timber is a natural insulator, meaning heat does not easily pass through it. Plus, timber effect windows use multi-chambered profiles which trap plenty of heat, ensuring for a warm home.

Are timber windows more secure than uPVC windows?

Both wood and uPVC are strong materials, meaning security levels are more dependent on the security hardware in use. Multi-point locks are renowned for being rigorously secure, so keep an eye out for these. The timber effect windows that Emerald supply have all been fitted with them as standard.

Emerald Windows is an expert installer of windows, doors and conservatories based in Swindon. If you’d like to find out how we can improve your home, get in touch today. We’re currently offering a 20% discount on every quote to celebrate our 20th year of trading

Areas we serve

Swindon-based family run double glazing installers

With a head office in Swindon, a short trip from the motorway, we are ideally located to offer our services across Wiltshire, Reading, Bath, Bristol, Marlborough, Berkshire, Gloucestershire, Oxfordshire, and other surrounding locations.

Emerald provide and install home improvements in all materials – uPVC, aluminium and traditional timber. No matter what material you choose, you can be sure we’ll provide you consistent quality – our work is always finished to the highest standards, whether you’re installing 2 windows or 20!

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Replacing patio door with a window

Emerald windows were brilliant. The patio door was removed and replaced with a window. All work was carried out from bricking up the outside to plastering the inside. Great work...

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Local Family Friendly Company

We worried about choosing a window company. We looked at all the usual national firms but we preferred the feel of a smaller local family run business as the rep...

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Very Pleased

Very pleased with the whole process from Mark letting us see and touch the product in the showroom in Swindon (many don't!), to a transparent price breakdown, no "buy now...

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Highly Recommended

Highly recommend Emerald Windows and Doors; new Front and back doors fitted yesterday. Cannot praise Mark the Fitter enough, courteous, friendly and very helpful. Top job with attention to detail...

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Michelle Webb

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Emerald Windows – A Quality Product

Emerald windows have just installed a new composite front door to our property. We are very pleased with the product and the installers were polite, professional and have carried out...

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