Inefficiencies of PVC Windows

By Andrew Eagles, Housing Corporation, 18th December 2006

The basic principle is that this article [see eNews Issue 156] mistakenly infers that PVC windows are the only way to get energy efficiency. The report does not mention that wood windows can also achieve these gains. Nor does it mention the environmentally damaging impact of PVC. PVC windows have a "C", the lowest possible rating, in the green guide to specification.  This means they cause significant environmental damage.

The Government is signalling a move away from such products. EP currently require that no C rated products are specified in their projects. Their in-depth research showed B and A rated products did not cost more. The materials section of the Code for Sustainable Homes also signals a move a way from bottom ranking products.    

The story is that well insulated windows are well insulated whether made with wood or PVC. If concerned about the sustainability of materials PVC is a very poor cousin. Nothing in this report tells me otherwise.