Know The Latest Security Features In uPVC Windows

Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (UPVC) has gained popularity for its durability and versatility in home furnishing. Complementing various decor styles, UPVC Windows Hardware and door accessories offer a wide range of styles, designs, colors, and sizes. Handles, a crucial component, often feature a lever lock system with a curved design. With a standard 92mm center, the Flexi entryway handle provides flexibility in installation. The rising demand for high-security features has driven innovation in UPVC Door Hardware, ideal for both interior and exterior doors. Contrary to the misconception of being exclusively white, uPVC doors come in diverse colors and finishes, catering to varied preferences for homes or offices. We will look at advanced locking mechanisms, reinforced framing, intrusion resistance, and other elements that make modern uPVC windows a security asset for your property. Below are the top 8 security features that UPVC windows offer:

1. Advanced Multi-Point Locking Systems

One of the most important security features in uPVC windows is the multi-point locking system. This feature allows the window sash to be firmly locked at multiple points along the opening edge, using a series of concealed shoot bolts that engage with the outer frame.

Whereas traditional windows only lock at the handle or latch area, uPVC windows now come equipped with at least 3-4 locking points for enhanced security. Some ultra-secure designs even offer up to 14 reinforced locking locations using toughened metal keeps and securing cleats. The more locking points, the more reinforcement along the window sash.

Upgraded locking hardware is also more tamper-proof, often featuring high-security branded components that integrate flipper closures, lockable handles, internal locking mushroom cams, and anti-jacking technology. Locking points may also engage in different ways for maximum resistance.

2. Reinforced Framing

In tandem with advanced locking systems, the latest uPVC window frames utilize reinforced, multi-chambered profiles that interlock for incredible strength and rigidity. Frame corners may be fusion welded for seamless joints that cannot flex or separate.

Metal or galvanized steel reinforcement inserted within the frame chambers provides hardcore resistance against forceful blows or attempted removal. This makes the windows extremely difficult to dislodge or compromise.

Glazing beads and gaskets holding the glass securely in place may also utilize reinforced designs to prevent the glass pane from being forcibly removed. Security glazing beads are often made of durable uPVC or metal for maximum integrity.

3. Intrusion Resistance

Enhanced framing and locking hardware make modern uPVC windows highly resistant to intrusion by an outside attacker. Upgraded window systems are designed and tested to withstand considerable brute force from manual attacks like blows from hammers, kicks, shoulder barges, pulls, and other aggressive tactics.

High-quality windows do not yield even under extreme duress and thereby provide a formidable barrier to forced entry. This deters and frustrates would-be intruders seeking easier points of house access.

Burglar resistance: Many uPVC windows now carry official “burglar-resistant” classifications, having passed a series of stringent, independent security tests. Standards like PAS 24, STS 201, and others require surviving sustained, prolonged attacks from simulated break-in tools and techniques. Windows must withstand over 10 minutes of applied force before being deemed adequately secure. This rigorous testing ensures the windows offer maximum security.

4. Complementary Glass Units

In tandem with reinforced framing, uPVC windows also integrate high-security glass units featuring tempered, laminated panels. Tempered glass is heat-treated for increased tensile strength, allowing it to withstand considerable blows and blunt force.

Laminated glazing has a resilient interlayer bonding multiple sheets of glass together. This prevents the glass from shattering even when severely cracked or pierced. Laminated panels make it extremely difficult to gain access by breaking the glass.

Together, these glass technologies create formidable, multi-layered barriers able to withstand concentrated manual attacks from potential intruders. Complemented by reinforced frames, secure uPVC windows offer robust, reliable protection.

5. Fire Resistance

An undervalued benefit is that uPVC windows also provide enhanced fire resistance due to their composition and construction. uPVC stands for “unplasticized polyvinyl chloride”, meaning PVC that does not use plasticizers in its manufacturing.

As a result, uPVC contains high chlorine content making frames and glazing inherently fire-retardant and self-extinguishing. uPVC windows are therefore designed to contain flames longer during a house fire event.

Properly installed, the multi-chambered frames, composite gaskets, reinforced glass, and tight seals all work to slow the spread of flames. This buys occupants more time to escape while allowing first responders to better combat property fires and smoke damage.

6. Durability in All Weather

A prime advantage of uPVC windows is their long-term durability and weatherproofing capabilities. Unlike traditional wood and metal window frames which can rot, corrode, warp, and degrade over time, uPVC windows maintain structural integrity and security sealing in all weather conditions.

Exposure to harsh elements like rain, snow, wind, humidity, and UV rays does not damage or weaken the uPVC material. Windows therefore maintain air and water-tight sealing year after year to keep out exterior cold, heat, and moisture. Tight insulation also deters damage from frost, ice, condensation, and other causes.

This durability ensures windows continue blocking outside threats while promoting comfortable indoor living through reliable air seals and draft prevention. uPVC windows withstand the test of time.

7. Low Maintenance

A considerable advantage of uPVC windows is that they require very low maintenance compared to traditional window materials. Wood, aluminum, and steel frames need frequent repainting or staining to protect them from deterioration. They also collect more dirt, grime, moisture, mildew, and potential damage.

In contrast, uPVC frames do not require scraping, sanding, painting, or staining. A simple wiping down with a damp cloth keeps uPVC clean. Harsh soaps and abrasive pads are also unnecessary since the PVC cannot oxidize or discolor. The colour and surface finish remain like new for decades.

This low maintenance ensures window frames and seals retain maximal integrity over long time spans. Tight sealing prevents the air and water leaks associated with damaged window components. Routine cleaning is all that’s required for uPVC windows to function reliably year after year.

8. Enhanced Insulation

In cold winter climates, uPVC windows provide excellent insulation through multi-layered glazing, composite weatherstripping, and multi-chambered frames that trap air pockets. This provides better thermal dynamics to prevent indoor heat loss and keep interiors comfortably warm.

Advanced glazing features like double and triple pane units separated by inert gases (or vacuum sealed) also minimize convection and conduction heat transfer. Specialized thermoplastic spacers further prevent moisture condensing between glazing layers.

Together these technologies create formidable barriers to heat transference, stopping icy winter drafts. Windows remain frost-free with no condensation or icing along the edges. This maintains air-tight sealing and reliable opening/closing function.

Conclusion

Modern uPVC windows integrate a broad range of innovative security features to keep your home and family safe. These include:

• Multi-point locking systems with reinforced components to thwart intruders.
• Burglar-resistant designs able to withstand prolonged, concentrated attacks.
• Laminated and tempered glazing layers provide hardcore glass security.
• Reinforced framing for unmatched strength and rigidity.
• Fire-retardant properties to slow the spread of flames.
• Extreme weatherproofing and durability year after year.
• Low maintenance requirements for sustained performance.
• Enhanced insulation against cold winter drafts.

With decades of experience and state-of-the-art manufacturing capabilities, today’s uPVC window suppliers like Windows being sold at McCoy Mart’s platform utilize cutting-edge techniques to deliver maximum security. Investing in UPVC windows brings long-lasting peace of mind knowing your property is well-defended against outside threats.