21+ uPVC Cladding Advantages and Disadvantages | Benefits & Uses of uPVC Materials

What is uPVC? | uPVC Cladding Advantages and Disadvantages | Benefits & Uses of uPVC Materials | uPVC Walls and Facades | uPVC Soffits and Fascias

 

What is uPVC?

uPVC, or unplasticised polyvinyl chloride, is often used for window frames, guttering and soffits and fascias. Since it’s a hardwearing and cheap material, lots of homeowners are choosing it for their soffits and fascias.

But like any material, there are drawbacks as well as benefits to using it. We’ve put together a handy guide so you can compare the pros and cons of installing uPVC guttering and see if it’s the best option for you.

uPVC Cladding?

UPVC cladding is a type of cladding material typically made with a type of plastic (polyvinyl chloride). It is typically fitted to the exterior or interior walls of buildings to provide a weatherproof, durable, and attractive exterior.

UPVC cladding provides a weatherproof exterior that is durable and attractive.

UPVC cladding is a product used for external walls. It is made from a mixture of plastic and woodchips. UPVC cladding is easy to install with a flat finish.

This product is available in a wide range of colour and dimensions. This product is an environmentally friendly product that will not rot, fade or crack which makes it easy to maintain.

UPVC, or UPVC cladding, is a set of walls that have been built with the help of plastic and woodchips.

UPVC cladding is easy to install and comes in a wide range of colours and dimensions that fits with any home. This environmentally

UPVC cladding is a type of cladding material made from polyvinyl chloride or PVC.  PVC is a thermoplastic material which is formed by heating propylene and its chlorinated form, polyvinyl chloride, and then blowing the heated material through a die in order to give it shape while it is still in a liquid form.

This is also known as ‘injection moulding’. UPVC cladding can be used on walls, facades, ceilings, roofs, and on furniture.

UPVC cladding is used for exterior and interior purposes, and is sometimes combined with other claddings such as timber or bricks.

uPVC Cladding Advantages and Disadvantages

uPVC Cladding Advantages

UPVC cladding offers a number of advantages.

1. uPVC cladding is lightweight

UPVC cladding is lightweight and is an affordable and easy to install material.

2. uPVC cladding has excellent thermal insulation

UPVC cladding has excellent thermal insulation and this makes it a great option for homes with hot weather.

3. uPVC cladding is easy to maintain

UPVC cladding is easy to maintain as it will not rot, crumble or crack which makes it easier to clean and more secure when used.

4. uPVC cladding is available in a wide range of colour

There are many options when it comes to uPVC cladding and you are sure to find the right one for your home.

5. uPVC cladding adds value to your home

uPVC cladding is an excellent addition when you are trying to sell your house as it is an aesthetically appealing option that will increase the value of your home.

6. Maintenance free

There is no need for painting or maintenance of this material and therefore there are fewer repairs that you will need to make on the walls of your home over time.

7. Low costs

The low costs of this cladding make it an economical option when compared with other options such as brick or wood.

8. Aesthetics

This cladding will decrease the amount of noise from outside your home, and will make your home look more attractive from the outside.

9. Versatility

This material can be used on both interior and exterior walls, making it a popular choice for homeowners who wish to add value to their property.

11. Reduces noise from the outside

There is often a lot of noise from outside the property, therefore this material will help reduce this and make the property quieter.

12. Makes your home look more attractive from the outside

This material will add to the property’s appearance, as it is made from wood that has been clad with this material.

The colours of the wood tend to vary depending on the additive used in manufacturing it; however, they are usually off-white or light brown in colour.

uPVC Cladding disadvantages

1. uPVC cladding is a non-renewable resource

Upvc cladding is made from a non-renewable resource, so if we do not value it and use it responsibly then the need for it will increase and the supply will become scarce.

2. uPVC Cladding is toxic

uPVC cladding contains small amounts of highly toxics such as polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) and vinyl chloride which make it a health hazard.

3. uPVC cladding does not biodegrade

uPVC cladding will not biodegrade and this makes it a non-renewable resource that will be hard to get.

4. uPVC cladding cannot be recycled

uPVC cladding cannot be recycled due to the fact that it is a non-renewable resource.

5. uPVC cladding uses non-renewable resources

There is a big demand for it and if we do not produce it then we need to find other ways to get the product.

6. uPVC cladding does not melt at low temperatures

uPVC cladding will not melt at low temperatures, which means that it can be used in homes that are in cold or very cold climates (which is where most of the houses are located).

7. uPVC cladding is expensive

Upvc cladding is more costly than other materials that can be used for the same purpose.

8. UPVC cladding is not fire-resistant

uPVC cladding is not fire resistant. This means that if there was a fire in your home and the roof and walls did not hold up then the people inside will have a lot of trouble getting out of it.

9. uPVC cladding has a short lifespan

The lifespan of uPVC cladding is not very long. This means that you will need to keep replacing it after some time, which will cost you money and add to the pollution in your community and the environment.

10. It can look “cheap”

Because this material is made from a synthetic form of wood, it may not look as attractive as an actual wooden cladding. Therefore, this material may not be the best option if you are trying to increase the aesthetics of your property.

11.  It does not biodegrade

This material will not biodegrade and therefore it is a non-renewable resource. This means that you will not be able to get more of this product when you need to, which can be problematic in the future.

It’s composed of PVC, one of the most environmentally hazardous plastics.  It pollutes the environment during its production and when it has reached the end of its useful life.

 

Other Uses of uPVC Materials

1. uPVC Skirting

uPVC skirting is a very versatile material that can be used in the production of a wide range of applications. This product comes in standard lengths ranges.

Due to the fact that this material is a high-quality product, you should be able to find this material at very affordable prices when compared with other materials used in the production of windows and doors.

Advantages of uPVC Skirting

Advantages of using uPVC skirting include;

1. Affordable

This material is very affordable, and as a result it may be suitable for people with small budgets.

2. Durable

This product is very durable, which means that it can last for many years even when exposed to high temperatures and moisture. With this type of material, you will not need to replace it very often if at all.

3. Easy to Install

This material does not require any special skills in order to install it, and as a result most people can handle the process with ease.

4. Water proof

This material is water proof, which means that it will not absorb any water and as a result it will not cause any damage to your home or to the furniture in your home.

5. Available in standard lengths

This material comes in a variety of lengths ranges. As a result, you should be able to find this material that is compatible with your needs.

Disadvantages of uPVC Skirting

Disadvantages of using uPVC skirting include;

1. Not withstand heat

This product does not withstand high temperatures or moisture, which means that you should be very cautious regarding this factor in particular.

2. Low quality

This product is not very durable, and as a result it will need to be replaced more often than other materials that are much more reliable.

3. Not fire resistant

This material is not fire resistant, which means that you should be aware of the fact that it should be protected from external sources such as burning wood, in order to prevent any damage or destruction.

2. UPVC Walls and Facades

Another use of UPVC is in the production of external walls and facades. This material is also used to create external walls and facades because it is very durable, strong, lightweight, and resistant to fire.

UPVC can be used instead of brick or natural wood, or in combination with these materials. This is an extremely popular use for UPVC because it allows the building to remain structurally sound while still appearing attractive.

It has a deep traditional look that emphasizes privacy and makes the structure more secure. With the help of UPVC, you can create a look that matches your home’s architecture.

Advantages of UPVC facades

Advantages of UPVC facades include;

1. It is lightweight

This material is one of the lightest building materials available. This makes it very easy to transport and install, and as a result, it is a popular choice for people who are looking to save money on building costs.

2. Affordable

This material is one of the most inexpensive construction materials. This makes it a great choice for people who are looking to save money on building costs.

3. Durable

This material is very durable, which makes it a popular choice in commercial and residential building applications.

It is also known to reduce the amount of mould that can grow within your structure because it has anti-mould properties.

4. It can be combined with other materials

This material is considered to be a noble material, meaning it has been used for hundreds of years for its aesthetic value.

It is therefore possible to combine this with other materials such as wood and brick, in order to add to the overall look of your structure.

5. Aesthetics

This material is not only easy to use, but it is also easy to maintain and repair once it has been installed. It will match other materials in your structure and therefore enhance the overall appearance of your home.

Disadvantages of using UPVC Facades

Disadvantages of using UPVC Facades include;

1. It is non-renewable

UPVC is one of the most harmful materials for the environment due to the pollution that occurs during its production process, and when it has reached its end of life.

2. It is not fire resistant

This material was not designed to withstand fire, and as a result, it will damage your property if there is a fire on your property.

3. It does not biodegrade

This material will not biodegrade and therefore it should be treated with care when it comes to waste disposal.

4. It pollutes the environment during its production

The production of materials such as this involves the use of dangerous chemicals that may affect the surrounding environment if they are released into the atmosphere. As a result of this, it is important to be careful when disposing of this material.

Since the production process involves toxic chemicals, there is a high risk that these materials will leak during transport. This can contaminate the surrounding soil, and subsequently affect the surrounding environment.

3. UPVC Furniture

In addition to walls and facades, UPVC is also used in the production of furniture. Because this material is easy to work with and eco-friendly, it is a popular material for use in the production of furniture.

UPVC has been used to create durable, attractive, and eco-friendly furniture like chairs, desks, table tops, and exhibitions cabinets.

Advantages of UPVC Furniture

Advantages of UPVC Furniture include;

1. It is lightweight

This material is very lightweight, which makes it a popular option to use in the production of furniture. This also makes UPVC a popular choice for people who are looking to save money on their furniture purchases.

2. Eco-friendly

This material is considered to be one of the most eco-friendly materials available on the market today because it does not emit harmful chemicals.

3. It is easy to clean

This material is very easy to clean, which makes it a popular choice in the production of furniture. You can use a wet cloth or sponge to remove dirt from this material, and as a result, it is a good choice for people with pets or small children.

3. It has anti-bacterial properties

This material is very resistant to bacteria. As a result, you will not have to worry about cleaning your furniture often because this will protect it from mildew and other microorganisms.

4. It is durable

This material can withstand a lot of wear and tear, which makes it a popular choice for use in the production of furniture.

Disadvantages of using UPVC Furniture

Disadvantages of using UPVC Furniture include;

1. It is non-renewable

UPVC is a non-renewable resource and as a result, it does not work to reduce waste or harmful chemicals in our environment.

2. It damages easily and cannot be repaired easily.

Because this material is weak, it easily damages and cannot be repaired easily.

3. It has no aesthetic value

Although this material is easy to maintain and clean, it does not have any aesthetic value. As a result of this, it may not be suitable as an option for the production of furniture.

4. UPVC Windows and Doors

UPVC has been used to create windows and doors that are resistant to pests, termites, and mould. This material is very lightweight, but it can also withstand the elements of nature such as wind.

It has anti-bacterial properties which can be beneficial for people with allergies or asthma.

Some UPVC windows and doors have been created with safety certificates that guarantee they will not cause any harmful gases during a fire.

Advantages of using UPVC Windows and Doors

Advantages of using UPVC Windows and Doors include;

1. It is durable

This material is very durable, which makes it a popular choice for use in the production of windows and doors.

This material will not need to be replaced or repaired often because it can withstand a lot of wear and tear. This makes it easy to maintain and repair over time.

2. It can protect your property from pests such as cockroaches and termites

This material can protect your property from pests such as cockroaches, termites, wasps and mice. This is because it does not contain any harmful chemicals that can harm these pests.

3. It is easy to maintain and repair

Due to the fact that this material is durable, you will not need to replace or repair it very often, if at all. This makes it easy to maintain and repair over time.

4. It has anti-bacterial properties

This material is very resistant to bacteria. As a result, you will not have to worry about cleaning your windows and doors often because they will protect them from mildew and other microorganisms.

5. Affordable

This material is very affordable, and as a result it may be suitable for people with small budgets.

Disadvantages of using UPVC Windows and Doors

Disadvantages of using UPVC Windows and Doors include;

1. It does not last very long

This material has a short lifespan, which means that you will need to replace this material often if you do not want to replace it all together. However, if you use this material correctly then it can last for years without needing replacement.

2. It is not aesthetically pleasing

This material can be difficult to maintain and as a result it may not be aesthetically pleasing. This does not make this material suitable for use in the production of windows and doors.

3. Not withstand heat

This product does not withstand high temperatures or moisture, which means that you should be very cautious regarding this factor in particular.

6.  UPVC Roofing

UPVC has been used to create roofing for homes and buildings, as well as patio roofs that are resistant to pests, termites, and mould.

This material is easy to maintain and clean because it does not contain any harsh chemicals that can damage this material or the surrounding environment.

UPVC roofing is also lightweight, which makes it a popular choice for people who own green houses.

Disadvantages of using UPVC Roofing

Disadvantages of using UPVC Roofing include;

1. It is not aesthetically pleasing

This material is difficult to maintain and as a result it will not be aesthetically pleasing. This makes the production of this material very difficult, time-consuming and expensive.

2. It is non-renewable

UPVC is a non-renewable resource and as a result it does not work to reduce waste or harmful chemicals in our environment.

3. It does not last very long

This material has a short lifespan, which means that you will need to replace this material often if you do not want to replace it all together.

However, if you use this material correctly then it can last for years without needing replacement.

4. It is difficult to repair

Due to the fact that this material is durable, you will not need to replace or repair it very often, if at all. This makes it easy to maintain and repair over time.

7.  UPVC Fascias

Fascia boards support the bottom edge of the roof tiles, conceal and protect the ends of the roof rafter, and keep birds and vermin out.

Fascias are available in a variety of colors and shapes, including square, ogee, and bullnose, and aid to avoid weather damage to roofs.

Because they are more visible than soffits, cosmetics play a vital role. Because conventional fascias are typically made of wood, they will rot with time due to the nature of the material, resulting in a property losing its protection. Furthermore, an ugly property can easily become an embarrassment.

UPVC has been used to create fascias, which are often used in the production of pergolas and green houses.

This material is easy to maintain because it does not contain any harsh chemicals that can damage this material or the surrounding environment.

UPVC fascias come in a variety of colours and sizes, which makes them very appealing and attractive to homeowners.

Advantages of using UPVC Fascias

Advantages of using UPVC Fascias include;

1. Lightweight

This material is lightweight, which makes it suitable for use in the production of green houses and pergolas. It is also easier to handle than other materials that can be used in the production of roofing.

2. Affordable

This material is very affordable, and as a result it may be suitable for people with small budgets.

3. It is easy to maintain and clean

This material does not contain any harsh chemicals that can damage this material or the surrounding environment. As a result, it is easier to clean than other materials that can be used in the production of pergolas and green houses.

4. Available in a range of colours

This material comes in a wide range of colours, and as a result it will suit the aesthetic needs of most homeowners.

 

Disadvantages of using UPVC Fascias

Disadvantages of using UPVC Fascias include;

1. It does not last very long

This material has a short lifespan, which means that you will need to replace this material often if you do not want to replace it all together.

2. Non Biodigradbale

This material is a non-renewable resource and as a result it does not work to reduce waste or harmful chemicals in our environment.

8. uPVC Soffits

Soffits are boards which are attached to the underside of the roof line assembly and they act to keep the underside of the roof rafters dry and secure.

Just as cladding and fascias are traditionally constructed from wood, so too are soffits. When a soffit deteriorates it can lead to water penetrating the roof rafter ends, which could lead to serious roof damage.

The best soffit boards on the market offer extra loft ventilation and act to prevent the buildup of moisture in the roof space which could otherwise lead to rotting timber joists and eaves which would cause the roof structure to weaken.

Advantages of using uPVC soffits

Advantages of using uPVC soffits include;

1. Available in a range of colors and realistic wood grain finishes

This material comes in a wide range of colours and finishes, which make them very appealing and attractive to homeowners.

2. Lightweight

This material is lightweight, which makes it suitable for use in the production of green houses and pergolas.

It is also easier to handle than other materials that can be used in the production of roofing.

3. Low maintenance

This material does not contain any harsh chemicals that can damage this material or the surrounding environment.

As a result, it is easier to clean than other materials that can be used in the production of pergolas and green houses.

4. Affordable

This material is very affordable, and as a result it may be suitable for people with small budgets.

5. Available in traditional plain or tongue and groove

This material comes in a variety of traditional styles that are designed to blend in with the surrounding environment.

6. Long life span

This material does not contain any harsh chemicals that can damage this material or the surrounding environment.

As a result, it has a longer lifespan than some other materials that can be used in the production of green houses and pergolas.

Disadvantages of using uPVC soffits

Disadvantages of using uPVC soffits include;

1. It is difficult to maintain and repair

Due to the fact that this material is durable, you will not need to replace or repair it very often, if at all. This makes it easy to maintain and repair over time.

2. It does not last very long

This material has a short lifespan, which means that you will need to replace this material often if you do not want to replace it all together.

3. Lightweight

The lightweight nature of this material makes it susceptible to damage from external sources.

9. UPVC pipes and fittings

UPVC are used in making pipes and fittings. These pipes and fittings are used in the building of boilers, pumps, water troughs and drains.

They are also used in the production of washing machines, dishwashers, domestic appliances and general domestic purposes.

Advantages of using UPVC pipes and fittings

Advantages of using UPVC pipes and fittings include;

1. It is durable

This material is durable which makes it suitable for use for piping installations in any type of situation.

2. It is easy to install

This material does not require any special skills in order to install it, and as a result most people can handle the process with ease.

3. It is inexpensive

This material is very affordable, and as a result it may be suitable for people with small budgets.

4. It has a long lifespan

This material does not contain any harsh chemicals that can damage this material or the surrounding environment. As a result, it has a longer lifespan than some other materials that can be used in the production of green houses and pergolas.

5. Available in standard lengths

This material comes in a variety of lengths ranges. As a result, you should be able to find this material that is compatible with your needs.

Disadvantages of using UPVC pipes and fittings

Disadvantages of using UPVC pipes and fittings include;

1. Not fire resistant

This material is not fire resistant, which means that you should be aware of the fact that it should be protected from external sources such as burning wood, in order to prevent any damage or destruction.

2. Non-Biodegradable

This material is a non-renewable resource and as a result it does not work to reduce waste or harmful chemicals in our environment.

4. Difficult to work with

This material is very lightweight and as a result it can be damaged easily by external sources such as wind and weather.

10. uPVC guttering

Guttering is a long-curved channel that is fixed along the roof of a building and it is used to cope with the rainwater which comes from the roof of the building.

Advantages of using UPVC guttering

Advantages of using UPVC guttering include;

1. This material does not damage the environment or land

This material does not contain any chemicals which can be harmful to the environment, or to any living things in particular.

2. It is resistant to ultraviolet light

This material is resistant to ultraviolet light, which means that it will not harm any living things such as plants in particular.

3. It is very durable

Due to the fact that this material is durable, you will not need to replace this material very often if at all. This makes it easy to maintain and repair over time.

4. It does not require special tools to install

This material does not require any special skills in order to install it, and as a result most people can handle the process with ease.

 

Disadvantages of using UPVC guttering

Disadvantages of using UPVC guttering include;

1. Non-Bio degradable

This material is a non-renewable resource and as a result it does not work to reduce waste or harmful chemicals in our environment.

2. It does not last very long

This material has a short lifespan, which means that you will need to replace this material often if you do not want to replace it all together.

However, if you use this material correctly then it can last for years without needing replacement.

3. It is difficult to repair

Due to the fact that this material is durable, you will not need to replace or repair it very often, if at all. This makes it easy to maintain and repair over time.

4. Not Fire resistant

In situations where fire or natural occurrences have damaged other building materials, UPVC will not give a strong protection against heat and energy loss.

The material from which this material is made will get burnt, therefore your home will be not safe during a fire.

11. uPVC Quadrant Trim

Quadrant trim are used to smooth out those uneven corners of your wall. These UPVC Quadrant strips are designed for the inner corner, floor or ceiling to make it look more fantastic.

The Quadrant is used when the walls are uneven, to create a straight line when finishing off the corners in a bathroom or wet room.

Advantages of using uPVC quadrant trim

Advantages of using uPVC quadrant trim include;

1. It is inexpensive

This material is very affordable, and as a result it may be suitable for people with small budgets.

2. Easy to install

This material does not require any special skills in order to install it, and as a result most people can handle the process with ease.

3. Available in standard lengths

This material comes in a variety of length. As a result, you should be able to find this material that is compatible with your needs.

4. It is resistant to sunlight

This material is resistant to sunlight, which means that it will not harm any living things such as plants in particular.

5. It has a long lifespan

This material does not contain any harsh chemicals that can damage this material or the surrounding environment.

As a result, it has a longer lifespan than some other materials that can be used in the production of green houses and pergolas.

Disadvantages of using uPVC quadrant trim

Disadvantages of using uPVC quadrant trim include;

1. Low quality

This material is not very durable, and as a result it will need to be replaced more often than other materials that are much more reliable.

2. Not fire resistant

This material is not fire resistant, which means that you should be aware of the fact that it should be protected from external sources such as burning wood, in order to prevent any damage or destruction.

12. uPVC Ceiling

uPVC Ceiling is a versatile material that can be used in the production of a wide range of ceiling. This material is produced using PVC and it can be used for both indoor and outdoor applications.

This product comes in standard lengths ranges. Due to the fact that this material is a high-quality product, you should be able to find this material at very affordable prices when compared with other materials used in the production of ceilings.

Advantages of using uPVC Ceiling

Advantages of using uPVC Ceiling include;

1. Versatile

This material can be used in both indoor and outdoor applications, which means that you should be able to find this product at affordable prices when compared to other materials used in the production of ceilings.

2. Durable

This product is very durable, which means that it can last for many years even when exposed to high temperatures and moisture. With this type of material, you will not need to replace it very often if at all.

3. Lightweight

This material is very lightweight, which means that it can be easily broken or damaged by external sources such as wind and weather.

However, due to the fact that this product is strong and durable, you should be able to find this product at affordable prices when compared with other materials used in the production of ceilings.

4. Water proof

This material is water proof, which means that it will not absorb any water and as a result it will not cause any damage to your home or to the furniture in your home.

5. Easily repairable

This material is very easy to repair, and as a result you should be able to find the materials that are used in the production of this material at affordable prices.

6. Available in standard lengths

This material comes in a variety of lengths. As a result, you should be able to find this material that is compatible with your needs.

7. It is easy to install

This material does not require any special skills in order to install it, and as a result most people can handle the process with ease.

Disadvantages of using uPVC Ceiling

Disadvantages of using uPVC Ceiling include;

1. Not withstand heat

This product does not withstand high temperatures or moisture, which means that you should be very cautious regarding this factor in particular.

2. Low quality

This product is not very durable, and as a result it will need to be replaced more often than other materials that are much more reliable.

3. Not fire resistant

This material is not fire resistant, which means that you should be aware of the fact that it should be protected from external sources such as burning wood, in order to prevent any damage or destruction.

Benefits of uPVC Materials

Benefits of uPVC Soffits & fascias

Low maintenance

uPVC soffits and fascias are almost maintenance free once you’ve installed them. You might need to give them a clean every now and again if you’ve had particularly heavy rainfall.

Unlike wood, they won’t need treating and staining every few years.

Inexpensive

Unlike other options, uPVC soffits and fascias are relatively inexpensive. Wood fixtures could cost you double what they cost.

Durable

The nature of uPVC means that it’s durable. Once your contractor has installed them, you won’t need to replace your soffits and fascias for many years.

They won’t rot over the years and they won’t split or swell in the same way that wood might.

You can choose different colours

One of the benefits of uPVC soffits and fascias is that you don’t have to have them in the standard white colour. Other popular colours are brown and woodgrain effect, which is useful if you have a period home.

Drawbacks to having uPVC soffits and fascias

Can fade or discolour

Over time, uPVC soffits and fascias can fade and discolour. If you have white soffits and fascias, you may notice that they go yellow after a few years due to the sun’s UV rays.

This can make them look dirty, but there isn’t much you can do to get the bright white colour back.

May become brittle

Another thing that the sun’s rays due to uPVC soffits and fascias is make them brittle as time goes on.

This can mean that they easily break if you rest a ladder up against them to unblock yours gutters or try to get on your roof.

Not suitable for some period properties

Although it’s possible to get wood effect uPVC soffits and fascias, some properties in conservation areas may not be able to have uPVC roofline fixtures.

To keep in line with the period that the property was built in, you may have to get real wood soffits and fascias which cost considerably more than uPVC.