Many modern homeowners are choosing garden rooms over traditional extensions to make the most of any outdoor space on their properties and create more room to work or relax. Whether for living and entertaining, working or running a remote business, a garden room is a brilliant way to create a comfortable, quiet and versatile new space in the peaceful setting of your private garden.
When choosing a garden room, you’ll have lots of decisions to make including the size of your structure, the external and internal finishes, any extras you can accommodate like a roof terrace or composite decking, and much more. One of the most important factors you will have to consider will be the materials used to construct your garden building.
PVCu is a common construction material that is strong and easy to maintain, which is why we use it for the windows and doors of our Garden Retreat pods. Let’s take a look at the benefits of PVCu and why it’s such an effective material.
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What is PVCu?
Unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (PVCu, or uPVC) is a type of lightweight and rigid plastic polymer. ‘Unplasticised’ refers to the way that the polyvinyl chloride is not softened during the manufacturing process, which is what allows it to retain its high strength.
PVCu is often used in construction because it is chemically resistant and very durable. It is strong and resistant to impact and weather damage, which makes it ideal as an alternative to wood for windows and doors. Unlike wood, it will not rot or warp after prolonged exposure to rain, and unlike steel, it will not rust or corrode. It also doesn’t fade or peel like painted timber doors. PVCu requires very little maintenance required to keep it looking and performing at its best.
Another important benefit of PVCu is that it is a low conductor of heat. When used for windows and doors it creates a closed air system to minimise heat loss. It helps properties to retain heat in the winter and stay cool in the summer.
PVCu is also fantastic for the environment because it is made from materials that are mostly recycled. It can be repurposed easily to make other products (such as plumbing and pipe fittings) when it is replaced.
PVCu doors
A Garden Retreat pod is offered with your choice of PVCu bifold and patio doors in two colour options (black or grey). We use PVCu instead of timber because it is significantly stronger and offers greater levels of security. With expensive electronics or equipment potentially being housed in your garden room, it’s important that the space remains as secure as possible against intruders. With durable PVCu doors, you can rest assured your property will be safe.
Another reason we use PVCu for our doors is the material’s excellent soundproofing properties. PVCu does not transmit sound effectively, and this in combination with double glazing ensures that your garden room remains peaceful when lots of noise is happening outdoors. It also means neighbours won’t be disturbed by noise taking place inside the garden room, which is ideal if you are using the space as a home cinema or will be running a noisy business such as a fitness studio.
PVCu doors also offer excellent insulation and can help to minimise heat loss. They help to keep the garden room warm in cold weather so that the space can remain comfortable for use all year round.
Finally, PVCu doors are very low maintenance and easy to take care of. Unlike timber, they don’t require routine treatment or repainting to stay in good condition. They also won’t peel, flake or fade and will look smart for decades to come.
PVCu windows
We also use PVCu for the windows of our garden rooms. Our goal is to create garden pods that require minimal upkeep and will look as good as new after years of use. PVCu is the perfect material for windows because you won’t have to worry about the frames eroding or warping after exposure to the elements. Like our bifold and patio doors, you also won’t have to do any strenuous maintenance to keep the windows looking their best. A quick wipe down now and again will remove any dirt or grime, and there’s nothing else to it.
PVCu is a brilliant material for windows because it minimises heat loss and provides thermal comfort during spells of cold weather. It also provides acoustic insulation to reduce sound pollution. This is particularly helpful if you’ll be using the room as a garden office and need peace and quiet without being disturbed by neighbours or any activities going on in your garden.
Finally, we chose PVCu windows for our garden rooms because it’s great for the environment. Although the windows are set to last for many decades, when it does come time to replace them the frames can be recycled and repurposed.
Frequently asked questions
What’s the difference between uPVC and PVCu?
There is no difference between uPVC and PVCu. Both acronyms stand for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride. In the 1980s, PVCu became the standard naming convention in Europe because most languages other than English pronounce the PVC part before the U. In the UK you’ll see the acronyms used interchangeably, but they both refer to the same material.
How safe are PVCu doors?
PVCu doors are incredibly safe and secure thanks to the material’s strong and sturdy nature. When combined with high-quality locks, PVCu doors are safe enough that you can leave your belongings in your garden building and feel confident that they are protected against would-be intruders.
What makes PVCu windows secure?
PVCu is generally deemed stronger than natural solid timber. PVCu is an incredibly strong material that can withstand strong force, and this in combination with double glazing makes PVCu windows incredibly secure.
How long will PVCu doors and windows last?
The windows and doors used in our garden rooms come with a 10-year warranty, but you can expect the PVCu to last for many years more than this before replacement is necessary.
For more information about our low maintenance garden rooms or to arrange a free site survey, contact us today to discuss how a Garden Retreats pod could provide the perfect space for your property.