Timber vs uPVC
Compare window materials to make the best choice for your home
Timber
A traditional natural material that offers excellent aesthetics, good insulation, and environmental benefits but requires regular maintenance.
£550-£2800
uPVC
Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride is a low-maintenance, cost-effective material with good insulation properties.
£250-£1200
Feature Comparison
| Timber | Feature | uPVC |
|---|---|---|
£550-£2800 | Price Range | £250-£1200 |
2.2x | Relative Cost | 1.0x |
Good | Thermal Efficiency | Good |
25-35 years | Average Lifespan | 20-30 years |
Very Low | Maintenance Required | Very Low |
10-30 years | Typical Warranty | 10-20 years |
Detailed Comparison
Timber
Advantages
- Beautiful natural appearance
- Excellent insulation properties
- Environmentally friendly
- Suitable for conservation areas
- Repairable and refinishable
Considerations
- Requires regular maintenance
- Can warp or rot if not maintained
- Higher cost than uPVC
- Variable quality depending on wood type
uPVC
Advantages
- Affordable
- Low maintenance
- Good thermal insulation
- Weather resistant
- Available in many colors
Considerations
- Less elegant than timber
- Limited repair options if damaged
- Environmental concerns with production and disposal
- Can discolor over time
Our Recommendation
Choose uPVC if:
You want premium performance with good thermal efficiency
Budget Considerations
Timber:£550-£2800
uPVC:£250-£1200
Long-term Value
Expected Lifespan:25-35 years vs 20-30 years
Maintenance:High vs Very Low
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