uPVC Windows: Types of Frames and Panels

The white plumbing pipes you use in your bathrooms are made of uPVC (short form for
Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride). It is based on a plastic powder that is heated up and
injected into a mold to take its shape. After it is cooled, it is cut and prepared to combine with
other components of the window. 
There are no screws used in the manufacture of uPVC windows. All the joints in the frame
are welded as per the required design. Choosing the right design, pattern, and glass for your
windows can enliven the decor of your places instantly. However, choosing the right type of
frame also needs consideration. This factor is decided by space, size of the room, location,
and personal preferences. 
Different types of windows are suited for different sections of spaces. For example, a sliding
window in a small room, whereas a fixed window for a large room where ventilation is not a
problem. 
Types of uPVC window frames:
uPVC windows are versatile in adapting to different types of windows while keeping their
aesthetic appeal. Some of the windows commonly used include:
1. Fixed window frames: These windows are fixed to the wall permanently and can't be
opened anytime. They have good insulation and keep sound, heat, and dust away from
disrupting your room. 
2. Sliding window frames: These windows can be opened or closed by simply sliding
them from one side to another. They are perfect for places with low space. These
windows can be horizontal, vertical, short, or long based on requirements.
3. Top Hung windows: These windows can be in the form of single or double-hung
windows. Single-hung windows are fixed at the top and can tilt at the bottom while
Double-hung windows are fixed on the other end. They are a great solution in places
where little ventilation is needed. 
4. Casement Window Frames: This window solution has a side hinge that opens
outwards. They make a popular choice as they are easy to operate and can be installed
anywhere in the house. They are perfect for spaces where the window size required
isn't too large. 
Materials used in panels of uPVC Windows
Most of you generally have a misconception that we can only use glass in uPVC doors and
windows. That's not true as you can use anything on the condition that its thickness fits in the
profile.
We can also use a uPVC Panel, Acrylic Sheet, A.C.P Sheet, and Plywood. It depends on your
creativity. The thickness required for sliding windows and doors should be between 3 mm to
20 mm while that of casement doors and windows should be between 3 mm to 32 mm.
However, in almost 95% of cases, the most commonly used material in uPVC doors and
windows is glass. Glass has the properties to reflect and refract light. This is why all products
made of glass have a natural shine on them. Also, the most fascinating thing about glass is
that it can be molded and shaped to meet any architectural design. It has a multipurpose
functionality to utilize both internally and externally.
Different sorts of glasses are available in the market. 
Most Commonly Used Glasses:
1. Annealed glass (also known as float or clear glass) : It is the most commonly used
glass as it is economical, easily available, and has a clear smooth surface. 
2. Toughened glass: Despite the delicate look of regular glass, modern-day toughened
glass has the character of strength & durability, and can withstand heavy impacts, 4-5
 times more than regular glass. It has wide applications in areas prone to impact like
doorways, stairways, sliding doors, and windows. It is very strong, resilient, has
enhanced safety and versatile uses. 
3. Heat Strengthened glass: HS glass is used in areas where the glass is highly exposed
to heat like in kitchens of 5-star hotels or commercial places like industries. This is to
avoid breaking glass by thermal stress and also giving it a visual appeal.
4. Laminated Glass: This glass is manufactured by sandwiching a flexible polymeric
material between layers of processed glass, by the use of heat and pressure. It is more
advantageous than tempered glass as the interlayer is not subjected to brittle failure
and provides a barrier to penetration. It is used in areas to prevent accidents and for
security reasons in showrooms.