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COMPLETE GUIDE TO MATERIALS FOR WINDOWS AND DOORS

When it comes to replacing the current windows and doors at their property, many homeowners are shocked by how many choices they have. Not only are there a range of styles and colours to choose from, but you also have a selection of different materials to consider as well. It is fair to say that you really do have more choice than ever before and whilst this is brilliant, there is no denying that it can be quite overwhelming.  Unless you’re a window and door expert, it is likely that you don’t know much about the different materials that are available these days and this can make choosing what's best for your property impossible. So, to help any homeowners who are trying to narrow down the vast market, our team here at Brackenwood have put together some information that you may find helpful. Below is a complete guide to the different window and door materials. 

Timber 

The majority of classic windows and doors at Listed buildings or in Conservation Areas will be timber. This material has been used for hundreds of years now and for many, it is their first choice. It is fair to say that wood provides natural beauty and warmth like no other material and it shouldn’t be overlooked simply because it isn’t the most modern choice.  Whilst there are many benefits to timber windows and doors, such as durability and longevity, it is worth noting that they often require much more maintenance than other alternative options. Some homeowners also find that their timber doors, in particular, swell during a rainy winter which can go on to cause problems, but this is fixable. 

UPVC 

Many modern homes have uPVC windows and doors and this material is a form of plastic. UPVC stands for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride and it is one of the cheapest options available on the market. However, just because it is affordable, doesn’t mean it isn’t long-lasting and uPVC actually requires very little maintenance to look as good as new too.  Nowadays, you can get uPVC windows and doors in a huge range of different colours and finishes, which makes them more appealing to homeowners who are worried about them looking like plastic. You should be aware that if your property is protected, then you may not be able to have uPVC windows and doors though, so always check this. 

Composite 

This material is particularly popular for exterior doors and it is still fairly new, in the grand scheme of things. Composite doors are actually made from several different materials, typically including; uPVC, wood and glass-reinforced plastic, making it one of the strongest door materials currently on the market. As you may expect, composite doors reap the benefits of all of the different materials they are made from and there aren’t actually that many disadvantages to this specifical material. However, due to their superiority, composite products can be much more expensive than similar products made from other materials, so they aren’t always budget-friendly. 

Aluminium 

Many aren’t even aware that aluminium is an option for windows and doors until they start browsing the market, but they can be a brilliant choice. There are many benefits to this material and it is often the first choice for windows and rear exterior doors when wanting an unobstructed view and lots of natural light, as they are known for their thin frames.  Whilst aluminium windows and doors are available in a range of different colours nowadays making them more versatile, they do tend to provide a much more modern aesthetic, which isn’t always suitable for all properties. Again, this material can be more expensive than the other available options too. 

Choosing your new windows and doors 

Hopefully, you will now know a little bit more about the different material options available to you when purchasing new windows and doors these days. Now that you’re aware of the main pros and cons to each of these materials too, you should find it easier to narrow down your options and decide which best suited to your home and your needs. Of course, you always have the option to mix and match materials and there is nothing wrong with having different windows and doors, so bear this in mind when choosing.  If you would like a professional opinion regarding new windows and doors, don’t hesitate to contact our team here at Brackenwood today. We specialise in supplying high-quality windows, doors and conservatories to customers in the local Berkshire, Hampshire and Surrey area, so you can trust we are the perfect people to contact in this regard. Not only we will gladly assist you in making your decision, but once you have chosen which material and style to go for, we will happily install your new windows and doors too. You can always rely on us to provide you with a comprehensive service.
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