Frequently Asked Questions

What is the difference between PVC windows, PVCu windows, uPVC windows and vinyl windows?

PVC windows, PVCu windows, uPVC windows and vinyl windows are the same thing - PVC windows.  People from the USA or Canada tend to call them vinyl windows, people from UK / Europe tend to call them UPVC, or PVCu windows.  With regard to strength of PVC windows, the vinyl windows of USA/Canadian origin tend to be lighter with less wall thickness than their UK / European counterparts and therefore are a little less suitable for the size of windows we tend to build in New Zealand.  Either way, advancements in the polymer industry has seen these take over the world.

How long have Thermalframe been in New Zealand?

Thermalframe (European Profile Company) have been successfully manufacturing and installing PVCu joinery for 20years in New Zealand.  In 2007 we changed our brand name to Thermalframe to better reflect our commitment to providing New Zealanders the most energy efficient windows in the country.  We are the most experienced PVCu company in Australasia.  Please read our About us link.

Has Thermalframe PVCu joinery been tested by a Telarc Registered Laboratory in New Zealand?

Yes. Unlike some systems on the New Zealand market, Thermalframe joinery has been tested in New Zealand in such a facility to NZS4211:1985 commercial and residential building standard codes. This was conducted in 1993 and all units passed all NZ Standards.  As well as passing all New Zealand standards, Thermalframe joinery has passed the most stringent overseas testing standards, and continues to lead the way in innovative design and performance.  Since this initial testing, technological advancements have been made by the LB Plastics Research and Development team as they seek continual improvement in both thermal and weather performance of the Sheerframe range of products.  Constant evolvement of the product range is driven by both legislative requirement and the increase in market awareness of the importance of thermal efficiency and weather tightness.  UK/Europe have demonstrated leadership in this field and with Thermalframe, New Zealanders can benefit from these ongoing technological improvements.

What types of housing does PVCu joinery suit?

Thermalframe PVC windows are fabricated from deceptively narrow profiles, fitting naturally into the older style of homes originally built with wooden windows but equally, suitable for the more modern architecture where the glass sight line is of great importance. Thermalframe PVC joinery is installed in all types of buildings, including brick, masonry, stone, timber and sheet clad homes.

Can a variety of Shapes, Combinations and Styles be manufactured?

There is a great versatility in design with Thermalframe PVCu joinery. Please view the Products link for further information or Contact us about your specific requirements. 

PVCu, what is it and what does it stand for?

PVC stands for Poly Vinyl Chloride. The 'u' means that it is unplasticised, i.e. rigid. PVC is a major thermoplastic material used in a wide variety of applications and products. The essential raw materials for PVC are derived from salt and oil. The electrolysis of slat water produces chlorine, which combine with ethylene, obtained from oil, to provide vinyl chloride monomer (VCM). Molecules of VCM are polymerised to perform PVC resin, to which appropriate additives are incorporated to make a customised PVC compound. PVC can be plasticised to make flexible for use in flooring and vital medical products for example, or rigid "PVCu", the U stands for unplasticised - which is used extensively in building applications including window frames.

Does Thermalframe PVCu profile stand up to New Zealand UV levels?

The polymer industry world wide has been developed to an extremely sophisticated level. Plastics are now widely used in such applications as the NASA Space Crafts. The science of the industry has advanced to the point where the plastics available to the building industry are of incredible strength and durability. Like all products in all industries, the quality may vary with the integrity of the manufacturer. Thermalframe is second to none when it comes to quality allowing absolute confidence in the stability of the PVCu composition and colour. With titanium dioxide added to the PVCu polymer as a uV inhibitor, PVCu windows (and in particular the Thermalframe suite) is currently installed in locations where the uV is much higher than the New Zealand - levels of 100-130Kcal/cm2/yr e.g. Arizona Desert, West Indies. Little degradation has occurred over 30 years and accelerated weather testing confirms longevity.

How does PVC window joinery compare in price with aluminium and timber joinery?

It is difficult to compare accurately as aluminium joinery prices vary around the country.  As a general rule, Thermalframe PVC windows are higher priced than standard aluminium but are similarly priced to 'thermally broken' aluminium windows. However New Zealanders have awoken to the fact that 'value for money' is far more important than the cheapest price. When it comes to value for money, Thermalframe is unbeatable. Thermalframe have a top-of-the-range product that is quite superior to anything else available in New Zealand. Hardware tends to be the downfall of most joinery systems and thus Thermalframe do not compromise on the quality of these components.

What advantages does PVC windows have over aluminium windows?

Energy efficient homes require energy efficient windows. When it comes to energy efficiency, PVC windows and aluminium windows are at opposite ends of the spectrum.  Condensation will not form on the PVCu frames however even in double glazing condensation channels are put at the bottom of aluminium windows in an attempt to catch the water that will inevitably pour off the metal frames.  Welded corners in PVC are leak proof (both air and water) compared with the 'screw together' method of aluminium windows.  Generally PVC windows incorporate far superior hardware, at Thermalframe we use imported multi-point locking systems for the majority of our products. PVC is also ideal in salt air environments as it will not oxidise nor corrode. Please refer to our Comparisons link for further.

What is the major difference between Thermalframe PVCu joinery and that of other manufacturers around the world?

Thermalframe PVCu windows and doors are fabricated from an extrusion which best suits New Zealand architecture. It has finer lines are therefore more glass area than most other PVC systems, and more closely reflects the character of New Zealand homes.  Our UK based systems provider LB Plastics constantly strive to produce products with the highest of thermal efficiencies.  They are one of the most respected extruders worldwide and have a the importance of purchasing from a respected manufacturer cannot be over emphasised.  We have used LB Plastics for our full range of PVC profiles since our inception in 1992. New Zealanders can be confident that by choosing Thermalframe PVC windows they are getting the highest quality product, with some of the longest standing industry guarantees, backed up by a well respected and experienced international manufacturer. 

Do you specialise in double glazing?

Yes. Here at Thermalframe we have been producing PVC windows with double glazing from our beginnings in 1992.  Until very recently most aluminium window suppliers primarily used single glazing.  Only a new glazing law introduced countrywide in 2008 prompted a wide sweeping change resulting in all window suppliers incorporating double glazing.  However the magic of double glazing lies not in the two panes of glass, but rather in the sealed space between the two panes.  A 16mm gap between the panes is the ideal space for energy efficiency, which is standard for Thermalframe.  Most aluminium windows will offer 10-12mm spaces which decreases the performance of the double glazed unit by allowing heat to transfer much easier (not to mention the inefficiency of the metal frame).  Another bonus of double glazed units in Thermalframe PVC windows is they are all filled with argon. Argon is a non-toxic gas which is denser than air, hence improving the energy performance of the double glazed unit by as much as 16%.  

With Thermalframe PVCu windows and optimum double glazing you can expect:

- A warmer, healthier and more comfortable living environment

- Lower energy bills

- Peace and quiet from the noisy outside world

- Freedom form the hassles of condensation

Does Double glazing aid Noise Control?

Double glazing accommodates a variety of glass thickness and types allowing the product to reach high acoustic control requirements. Ideally suited to inner city installations, hospitals, retirement villages, main road site applications etc.  We are more than happy to advise a suitable glass combination for your requirements.

What has happened if there is Fogging between the Panes of Glass?

There is a fault with the double glazed unit when this happens. The seal has been broken thereby allowing moisture to seep between the two panes of glass. The unit will need to be replaced. There is a 10 year guarantee on double glazed units provided with Thermalframe PVCu windows.

Can Skylights be manufactured in PVCu?

Yes we manufacture fixed skylights. At this stage, we do not supply an opening skylight.

What are the Environmental Impacts?

We are as conscious of the environment as you are. Being "Green" is not a fad; it is a way of life we all must adopt if our children and our children's children are to have the same quality of life we now enjoy.  The environmental impact of any product must be measured from cradle to grave, taking into account the impact of each phase of it's life cycle.  Thermalframe PVC is a safe choice in all phases.  PVCu requires substantially fewer resources to produce than metal alternatives.  Precious hardwood forests are spared; the plentiful, replaceable pint is not suitable for windows.  It would take quite a number of trees to replace the 20-25 million PVC windows installed in Britain!  PVC windows last longer and require no painting .  The long life means fewer resources are needed to replace them and the low maintenance spares the environment exposure to harsh chemicals involved with preservatives, paint and associated solvents.  It is an environmentally friendly product comprising 55% salt and is also recyclable.  Thermalframe PVC windows are made from calcium based profiles and are completely lead free.

How strong is PVCu? Does it bend - will it stand up to wind pressures?

Thermalframe PVC windows are fully engineered to meet New Zealand conditions.  Each window is calculated to withstand specific wind loads in different areas.  Aluminium or steel reinforcement is inserted into the central chamber of the PVC profiles to give additional strength as required.  Thermalframe PVC windows have successfully been installed at the top of Mount Ruapehu where the winds can reach extreme gale force.  

What colours are available?

 

Thermalframe PVC offer three colours. A warm white is our standard colour offered, and two woodgrain colours are available - 'Light Oak' woodgrain and Mahogany' wood grain. The PVCu woodgrain profiles complement claddings such as schist, cedar and stained timbers. Our architects have noticed that over the last few years, the trend towards colour in joinery has changed. Joinery is a high investment component in renovation or new build work. Consequently, the client does not want to replace windows and doors every 5-7 years as they would paint their house to maintain or change colour with fashion trends. People are wanting a 'timeless quality look'. Colour is now used for accent or elegant tone-on-tone effects created with trims in sills, fascia boards, reveals, and curtains.

Reveals - what are the choices available when using Thermalframe PVCu windows?

Timber - usually pre-primed treated pine; the homeowner can then paint to match or contrast with the chosen profile. PVCu reveals can be fitted, but do cost more. Often used in bathrooms or spa areas where extremes of moisture are present at times. Many other types of timber can be sourced on request such as rimu and macrocarpa. 

Condensation - how does PVCu reduce or eliminate it?

The lack of thermal conductivity of PVCu eliminates condensation on the profile completely in New Zealand climates, with PVC windows sometimes referred to as thermal windows. Used in conjunction with argon filled double glazing, it offers the most effective method of condensation control on the joinery market. Thermalframe PVCu joinery accommodates the most effective double and triple glazing units currently available, with a space of 16mm between the double glazed units. In a healthy home, the combination of Thermalframe and double glazing should ensure there are no condensation problems. Please also refer to our Benefits link.

Vents - what choices are available?

Thermalframe awning and casement windows incorporate a 'secure vent' position within the locking mechanisms. This allows the window to be left slightly ajar for ventilation whilst still being locked in multiple positions. Added to this, separate unobtrusive Thermalframe PVCu trickle vents can be incorporated into the frame for when homeowners are away for longer periods.

How does PVCu stand up to fire?

PVCu does not support combustion but will char, and stays in place longer than painted timber. The self extinguishing PVCu will not burn on its own as it is resistant to ignition.

What can be done if the profile is scratched, smoke damaged or burnt?

In white the colour goes right through the profile, so scratches and marks can be sanded out completely and polished smooth to bring it back to as good as new.

Can the profile be painted?

Although we do not recommend painting this low maintenance PVC product, there are specialist paints available to paint the profile.

Is installation of Thermalframe PVCu windows and doors difficult?

Installation should be precise, but it is no more difficult than alternative forms of joinery.  Please contact our technical department if you have any questions.

Do Thermalframe gaskets shrink and harden with age?

No. The gaskets and weatherseals on Thermalframe PVCu windows and doors are generally 'co-extruded'. This means that they are actually bonded onto the frames and to each other in the corners providing a continuous weatherseal - no shrinkage, no falling out!  This is often a feature that is underestimated when it comes to acoustic performance.

What Guarantees do you provide?

Thermalframe guarantees all of our products (subject to correct installations and normal conditions of use and upkeep), for the period as follows;

PVCu profile - 10 years

Double and triple glazed units - 10 years 

Hardware - 5 years