Consumers in the dark about benefits of wood windows

Only a quarter (27%) of people understand that wooden window frames are better for the environment than uPVC frames, according to research undertaken by Westbury Windows & Joinery.

Respondents were asked to take into consideration manufacturing, energy efficiency and disposal.

A third of people (34%) wrongly believe that uPVC is less detrimental to the environment or has at least the same impact as wood. Forty per cent of people simply didn’t know.

Londoners were least in the know about the environmental benefits of using wood over uPVC for windows.

Wood window myths debunked

Myth
uPVC is more weatherproof and wood is less stable and therefore more vulnerable to the elements.

Fact
Quality engineered Redwoods, often called “clear” as they are free from knots, has been designed to be both highly durable and extremely stable, and with moderate level of maintenance will outlast uPVC. Timber is also a superb natural insulator and when manufactured correctly, it will out perform uPVC in preventing heat loss.

Myth
Wood will need replacing in the long term as it is less durable than uPVC.

Fact
Wood will need repainting every 6-10 years but will ultimately stand the test of time: the longer a building lasts the better it is for the environment. uPVC discolours quickly due to dirt and organism retention which diminishes its overall appearance and will need replacing.

Myth
There will be less waste in uPVC manufacture as it is made to measure and doesn’t have off-cuts like wood.

Fact
Environmentally aware manufacturers will use engineered “clear” Redwood as there is far less wastage with this timber over hardwoods. Some more conscientious manufacturers will also utilise waste timber products at the factory for heating.

Myth
uPVC is more easily recycled.

Fact
According to the Wood Window Alliance, the latest figures show that the amount of PVC recycled in the UK was just 15% of the amount of wood recycled.

Myth
Some manufacturers use wood from non renewable sources or from non FSC forests.

Fact
Conscientious manufacturers of timber products ensure their raw materials only come from sustainable FSC registered sources. Sustainable sourced European timber ensures a better traceability of origin and reduces the carbon footprint of transporting the product.

Myth
uPVC produces less emissions during its manufacturing process.

Fact
uPVC is widely reputed to be one of the most hazardous plastics in the world and it in fact emits toxins into the environment when produced and also as it degrades.

Jonathan Hey, Founder and Managing Director of Westbury Windows & Joinery said: “Not only are homeowners potentially choosing uPVC for windows due to its perceived environmental properties, but in doing so they are also compromising their design choices. uPVC window designs are extremely limited and do not allow for traditional decorative features. We’d urge anyone thinking about replacing their windows to look again at wood from both an environmental and aesthetic point of view.”

For more information, visit westburyjoinery.com.