At a first glance, a PVC window does not seem to be as eco-friendly as a timber window, in particular due to its complex production process that involves a reasonable amount of energy and recourses. In spite of this, the installation of PVC windows is accompanied by many long-term benefits that outweigh the initial disadvantages.

In the long run, the carbon footprint of a PVC window is balanced by its extraordinary performance and energy efficiency. Important performance factors of these windows are their outstanding thermal insulation, long life span and low maintenance requirements.

ECOWINDOWS PVC windows are manufactured with a high proportion of recycled material and are also fully recyclable at the end of their life span. Old PVC is processed and converted to pellets, which allow it to be reused without loss of quality or material structure.

The reason for the continuous popularity of PVC windows in many countries around the world is their outstanding energy efficiency and durability. As early as 1954, the pioneer of PVC windows was built and installed in Hamburg, Germany. Since then, the production processes and performance of installed windows as well as the disposability of the materials at the end of their life span has been improved further, which makes these windows even more affordable and attractive as a first choice.

Up until today PVC windows are the most common window types used in Germany, where, compared to the guidelines of the New Zealand Building Code, far more rigid and stringent regulations for housing and construction apply. PVC windows perform much better thermally and reduce heating deficits dramatically, especially in comparison to simple single- or double-glazed aluminium windows, which are widely used in New Zealand. The installation of a PVC window increases the long-term comfort of a home and drastically reduces the energy cost over time.

Yes, they are!

For decades, uPVC windows have proven their long-lasting durability in other parts of the world, such as the European Alps, Southern Europe and the Southern States of the USA, where UV levels are similar to those in New Zealand.

Modern uPVC windows are treated with titanium dioxide, which protects the material from the high radiation levels of the sun and prevents a discolouration of the window. In regard to the high humidity levels in New Zealand uPVC reduces the amount of condensation on windows because, unlike aluminium, the material is not conductive. PVC frames also show excellent weather resistance and durability, making them a perfect choice for the rough climate here in New Zealand.

Inward opening windows, widely known as tilt and turn windows, are the standard window type used in Germany and most of Western Europe. These versatile windows can be opened flexibly in two ways: fully inwards, so that they swing open into the room, or tilted from the bottom, so that the top of the window is angled towards the room.

Tilt and turn windows have several benefits compared to other window options:

• Safe ventilation - the tilt function allows a permanent and yet safe ventilation of the room. The angled gap does not let any rain water inside the house, is burglar proof, and eliminates the hazard of children falling out.
• Easy maintenance - tilt and turn windows are very easy to clean, as you only have to open it inwards to wipe the outside surfaces.
• First-class safety features – our tilt and turn windows are extremely secure and tight due to multiple locking points. As these windows can be fully opened, they also serve as an emergency escape in the event of a fire.
• High-quality insulation – our timber windows are manufactured with precision and high accuracy, offering a much better insulation compared to other window types.

ECOWINDOWS has a vast variety of wooden double-glazed tilt and turn windows available on display at our showroom in Hamilton. You are welcome to visit us and experience all the benefits of an inward opening window for yourself, we would be happy to show you around!

All timber and PVC windows from the ECOWINDOWS range provide the highest quality of safety features to guarantee the security of your home and your family. This is why we only offer exclusive hardware that carries the renowned seal “made in Germany” or “made in Austria” from market-leading brands such as SIEGENIA, MACO and ROTO.

Our safety features include burglar resistance hardware that makes prying windows open practically impossible. Additional features include:

• Opening restrictors - increasing the operational reliability of windows by absorbing the force and gently cushioning the sash
• Turning locks - allowing only authorised people to turn and open a window
• Tilt-before-turn (TBT) hardware - utilising a key activation which prevents unauthorised opening
• Multipoint locks - offering the highest protection against intruders due to multiple high-quality locking points that grip into steel frame parts (striker plates)

We look forward to welcoming you at our showroom in Hamilton for a first-hand experience of our wide range of hardware and wooden windows.