Can uPVC Doors And Windows Prevent Mould?

Friday 20th October 2023

Ellen Warren

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A uPVC door opening

CONTENTS

Mould growth often lies hidden in plain sight on your doors and windows. The material of your doors and windows plays a vital role in preventing mould in the long term. uPVC is an excellent solution to moisture absorption, which makes it good for preventing mould growth.

At ICE Cleaning, we provide comprehensive solutions for mould problems in your home. Our mould removal services are leading the way in specialist cleaning in the UK, providing 24/7 help, 365 days a year to keep you and your family safe.

Read on to learn more about the importance of sealing in uPVC fixtures, explore how their insulation benefits can help keep your indoors dry, and discover what makes them a breeze to maintain. There's so much more awaiting you.

The significance of uPVC material in mould prevention

Unplasticised polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) is excellent when it comes to preventing mould growth by being non-porous. Mould thrives on damp surfaces, so it needs moisture to start growing. Any uPVC door or window will prevent this, allowing water to roll off its surface.

With its ability to resist water absorption, this material ensures that your doors and windows remain dry, even during rainy seasons. This unique feature makes it a prime choice for anyone living in older homes or those looking to replace old materials.

The role of sealing in uPVC doors and windows

Seals are integral in keeping moisture out, making them an integral part of uPVC doors and windows. They act as barriers that prevent water from seeping into your home, thereby reducing the chance of mould growth.

A proper seal on uPVC units involves precise fitting to ensure no gaps are left. A well-sealed door or window keeps mould at bay and aids energy efficiency by minimising drafts.

If you spot any signs of damage to the seals on your uPVC doors or windows, get professional help immediately. Swift action will maintain uPVC's proficiency and prevent any frequent replacements.

Insulation advantages of uPVC doors and windows

One advantage of uPVC doors and windows is their superior insulation capabilities. This stems from the material's unique properties, making it an excellent thermal insulator.

Double glazing in these units adds to this quality, trapping a layer of air between two panes of glass and acting as an additional barrier against heat loss. As such, uPVC doors and windows can effectively maintain a warm environment inside your home during colder months.

This dry atmosphere is less conducive to mould growth because damp is reduced. With lower humidity levels within the home, you are saving on energy bills and preventing potential health hazards caused by mould spores.

Low maintenance requirements of uPVC doors and windows

An advantage of uPVC doors and windows is that they do not need constant attention or a fresh coat of paint every few years. Their non-porous nature makes them resistant to dirt build-up. 

This means you do not have to clean them thoroughly on a regular basis, but instead wipe them down with warm, soapy water once in a while to maintain their efficiency.

Because their materials are resistant to water damage, you will not have to worry about water intrusion from rainfall, snow, flooding, or common pipe bursts and leaks.

Importance of proper installation for mould prevention

uPVC doors and windows are known for being mould-resistant, but this is only true when installed correctly. Improper installation can lead to moisture getting trapped, creating an ideal environment for mould growth.

Perfect sealing around the edges prevents draughts, keeping out rainwater which could otherwise seep into your home's interior surfaces. This is less likely to lead to dampness and potential mould issues. 

Adequate ventilation must be considered during installation. Even uPVC can succumb to condensation build-up if there is poor airflow in your home.

How to prevent mould growth

While uPVC doors and windows are great at preventing mould growth, they are just part of the solution. It is essential to have a comprehensive approach that includes managing indoor air quality to keep your home free from damp and humidity levels low.

Ventilation is key: regularly airing out rooms can reduce moisture build-up, discouraging mould formation. Use extractor fans in kitchens and bathrooms to remove steam during cooking or bathing, but remember to close these areas off from the rest of the house.

You may also want to consider using dehumidifiers in humid parts of your home or investing in plants that absorb excess moisture. In addition, maintaining a consistent temperature throughout your property can help control humidity levels.

Comparing uPVC with other materials in mould prevention

The efficiency of uPVC lies not just in its durability but also in its stellar performance against mould when compared to other materials. Wood, a common choice for doors and windows, can absorb moisture leading to potential mould issues.

In contrast, uPVC's non-porous nature stops it from soaking up water. Plus, aluminium may be strong and light but falls short on insulation, which means more condensation and more chances of mould formation. Failing to maintain proper mould prevention may result in requiring mould cleaning.

Frequently asked questions

How much should a uPVC door cost?

A typical uPVC front door can set you back between £500 and £900, but it depends on size, style and where you buy.

How much should a uPVC back door cost?

The price of a standard uPVC back door ranges from about £400 to £600. Extras like glass or locks may add more.

How much is a standard uPVC window?

A single, plain white double-glazed uPVC window starts around the mark of £200 - £300, excluding fitting costs.

Can you replace a uPVC door without replacing the frame?

As long as your existing frame is in good condition and fits correctly, just swapping out the old for new doors is feasible.

Get in touch

Our mould remediation solutions include expert advice and a lifetime guarantee*. We ensure that at the end of our cleaning procedure, you are equipped with industry knowledge and tools to help you prevent its return. If it does return, we return to your property free of charge.

If you would like to get in touch with our team, you can call us at 0208 066 0360 or send an enquiry to enquiries@icecleaning.co.uk. We are available 24/7, 365 days a year, and provide our services nationwide.

*subject to advisories

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