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Energy efficient UPVC conservatories.
There are two problems that can make any conservatory uncomfortable to live with. The most complained about are, firstly, the room getting too hot and secondly, the room being too cold.
These two issues not only impact on your enjoyment of the conservatory itself, but can also result in higher household heating or cooling costs.
UPVC is a type of Vinyl and is an energy efficient material in its own right – a poor conductor of heat and cold, which is exactly what you need.
To put it into context, UPVC has 1/1250th of the thermal conductivity of Aluminum.
Cutaway uPVC Window section.
A modern conservatory is constructed using a series of uPVC profiles. These profiles form the frames of the glazed sections.
The energy efficiency of the profiles is further enhanced by use of multiple chambers inside. This chambering is claimed to reduce heat transfer by a further 30%. In general, the more chambers, the more energy efficient.
What the chambers are there for are 1) to keep still air trapped in the frame which helps reduce heat transfer from one side to the other. 2) to add structural strength and 3) for the profile chambers to can contain galvanised steel reinforcing, thus giving a significant boost to structural strength. The steel reinforcing can be contained within the vertical and horizontal chambers providing unseen structural support.
UPVC does not easily expand and contract. The effect of this is to maintain effective weather-seals, thereby avoiding draughts or water penetration.
Alongside the use of good quality double glazing in the room, having a upvc frame means you have one of the most energy efficient conservatories in the market.
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Choice of colour & appearance.
Whilst white UPVC remains a very popular choice, more homeowners are looking to give their conservatory a more contemporary look. This is manifesting itself in more use of colour, with quite a good proportion opting for greys or dark colours.
Coloured UPVC is created in 2 different ways:
- Coloured foils: The profile is “wrapped” in a coloured or textured film (or foil) and then it is bonded to the frame under heat & pressure during manufacture. Foils are colour fast and are designed to not peel or crack during the lifetime of the frame.
- RAL spray paint: Usually applied at the factory, spray colours are also bonded to the surface of the PVC and give the same durability as foils.
The main difference between the two options is in the available colour range. UPVC foils will have around 20 colours, but RAL paint will have over 100 shades to choose from. Both offer wood-grain timber effect surface finishes.
Foil Colour uPVC Conservatory Frames
With its 3 or 5 facets giving it a rounded appearance, the Victorian style is elegant and ornate.
The simple sloping roof and rectangular or square design makes the lean-to very popular.
Medium to large sized rectangular extensions with 3 or 4-sided high roofing.
Similar to the Edwardian design, but with more ornate features and styling.
Often a combination of 2 designs in 1. Conservatories, such as the P, T, L or B bring their own style.
Don’t want to be like everyone else? The go your own way and do something completely unique.
