DIY Builds
Photo by Jan van der Wolf Pexels Logo Photo: Jan van der Wolf

Which is better aluminium or uPVC door?

If you need a door that requires little to no maintenance or does a really good job of insulating your home, uPVC is probably the best option. On the other hand, if you want larger areas of glass and a modern feel that will last the test of time, aluminium is a great choice.

Can I put shed on grass?
Can I put shed on grass?

Wooden Sheds Directly on Grass Placing a wooden shed directly on the lawn or grass is not a good idea. Direct exposure to the lawn means constant...

Read More »
What every shed needs?
What every shed needs?

Power drill. The power drill is one of the most useful, versatile tools ever to enter the toolshed, yet surprisingly, many tool sheds don't have...

Read More »
These are the Best Shed Plans!
These are the Best Shed Plans!

Comprehensive and Intuitive to follow. Build That Shed!

Learn More »

When fitting new doors in your home, you will often need to decide between either an uPVC or Aluminium style. But apart from the way they look, what are the differences? In this article, we will compare both and hopefully answer some of your questions.

What are the advantages of uPVC?

Unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (otherwise known as uPVC) is a very popular window and door material. It’s commonly used in many homes, but what is it that makes it such a popular choice?

Probably the best-kept secret about uPVC is its environmental sustainability. In the manufacturing process, uPVC doors and windows have a much lower energy demand in comparison to other materials. Having this advantage reduces not only the price point but also its impact on the environment. Have you ever heard a uPVC door creak? Even in terrible weather, the material doesn’t make much, if any, sound. uPVC has always been known for its effective insulation. As the material does not conduct heat, it means that windows and doors make a great job of keeping heat inside your home rather than dissipating it.

If uPVC is so versatile, how does aluminium compare?

That is a good question, whilst uPVC is a great material, aluminium also has its advantages. As we mentioned above, uPVC is quite sustainable in the manufacturing process but aluminium has far better lifetime usage. Typically, the material has a lifespan of around 40 – 45 years and can be recycled endlessly without any loss of quality. If you’re after a door that’ll last for a very long time, perhaps aluminium is the best choice for you. Aluminium is also a very strong material, meaning that it’s possible to have larger glass panels in your door as it has the capabilities to hold more weight. If this is a design that you prefer, we’d recommend opting for an aluminium door. Finally, the first thing you’ll notice about your new door is its aesthetic. Aluminium often offers a more modern and sleek look to your home and has become quite a trend over the last few years, particularly for people choosing the darker frame colours.

Which would work best for you?

With fantastic advantages to each, it’s best to think about what your house needs to decide on what material is best. If you need a door that requires little to no maintenance or does a really good job of insulating your home, uPVC is probably the best option. On the other hand, if you want larger areas of glass and a modern feel that will last the test of time, aluminium is a great choice. For more advice or to request a quote on a new uPVC or aluminium door, call us on today. Our team are always happy to answer your questions and provide you with the information you need!

Is it OK if firewood gets wet?
Is it OK if firewood gets wet?

Once wood has properly seasoned, does it matter whether rain gets on seasoned firewood? Seasoned firewood should be stored out of the rain to help...

Read More »
Can a cinder block hold a car?
Can a cinder block hold a car?

Concrete block is not acceptable, because it's far too frangible. There are really only three options: ramps, old-school jack stands and, of...

Read More »
Can I build my own shed?
Can I build my own shed?

Yes, with the right plans you can build your dream shed.

Learn More »

Is spray painting uPVC a good idea?

By far, spray painting your UPVC windows is the most effective, affordable, durable and aesthetic method. You can select any colour from the RAL colour chart and complete the look with 3 different finishes.

When compared to other materials for the construction of windows, the durable and thermally efficient credentials of uPVC means that it has emerged as the most popular option for residential and commercial properties. As well as being an affordable, low-maintenance and effective insulator, it can be tailored to achieve several colours and finishes. There are several ways in which uPVC windows can be cosmetically enhanced, with two particularly prominent methods being spray painting and vinyl wrapping. Each of these methods produces different results, but aesthetic and application spray painting is the superior option by far when it comes to longevity. In the following article, we will look at the pros and cons of each of these methods. In addition, we are demonstrating why spray painting is so much more affordable, long-lasting and convenient than window wrapping.

Where does the waste from a macerator toilet go?
Where does the waste from a macerator toilet go?

When you flush the toilet a macerating device inside of the tank activates. Waste inside of the tank is then pulverised within four seconds. The...

Read More »
What is the cheapest way to build a home?
What is the cheapest way to build a home?

The cheapest way to build a home is to design a simple box. Sticking to a square or rectangular floor plan makes the building and design simple....

Read More »
Are shed plans easy to follow?
Are shed plans easy to follow?

These are! They guide you every step of the way to complete your dream shed.

Learn More »
Why are Iowa barns white?
Why are Iowa barns white?

White barns became more common, but white paint was more expensive. So many farmers opted for the cheapest paint: red. Another reason red was...

Read More »
How many logs is a cord of wood?
How many logs is a cord of wood?

Typically, a full cord will contain somewhere between 600 and 800 pieces of firewood. If the company you purchase from cuts their logs shorter, you...

Read More »