Research reveals that timber windows have a lower lifetime cost in comparison to PVC-u windows

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Dr Gillian Menzies, of the Institute for Building and Urban Design at Heriot Watt University has produced a report showing that timber windows offer a better long-term value for consumers than PVC-u.

The findings formed part of the ‘Whole Life Cost Study’ undertaken on behalf of the Wood Window Alliance (WWA).

The research assessed timber window products manufactured to WWA standards against PVC-u windows in mild, moderate and severe conditions.

PVC-u was shown to have the lowest initial cost but 60-100 year cost comparisons revealed that all timber window products had lower lifetime costs than their plastic equivalents.

“Advances in technology and standards put in place by WWA have driven the industry forward and helped create a superior timber product,” commented Danny Hughes, managing director of specialist timber window and door manufacturer, Allan Brothers.

He went on to add, “Timber is well known as a sustainable resource but importantly, this report highlights the long-term cost advantages for consumers and the increased lifespan provided by the material over the less environmentally friendly plastic alternatives.”

The research accounts for all capital, installation and maintenance events in calculating results giving a realistic and holistic representation of window cost.

The full report can be downloaded from the Wood Window Alliance website at www.woodwindowalliance.com/professional/publications. An infographic summarising the key findings can also be found on the Allan Brother’s website at www.allanbrothers.co.uk/infographiclink.

Press release distributed by Home Strategic on behalf of Allan Brothers. For interviews, information or updates contact James Qualtrough on 44 (0) 1624 610121 or visit the Allan Brothers website at www.allanbrothers.co.uk.

Founded by William Allan in 1811, Allan Brothers is Britain's longest established joinery specialist. Over the last 200 years, we've amassed a wealth of knowledge in working with timber and developed an enviable reputation for quality, craftsmanship and service.

Allan Brothers strives to be at the forefront of the timber window and door industry, developing high-performance products that offer style, security and performance without making a negative impact on the environment.

In 2007 we became part of the Inwido Group, Northern Europe's largest producer of innovative, environmentally friendly, wood-based window and door solutions.

The combination of 200 years of British craftsmanship with Scandinavian performance and design has created a range of timber products that will add value to your home for years to come.

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Quick facts

60-100 year cost comparisons revealed that all timber window products had lower lifetime costs than their plastic equivalents.
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Statistics and information taken from a report for the Wood Window Alliance, March 2013, by Dr Gillian Menzies, Institute for Building and Urban Design, Heriot Watt, Edinburgh.
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The report is based on timber, modified timber and aluminium-clad timber window frames made to Wood Window Alliance Standards.
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Quotes

Advances in technology and standards put in place by WWA have driven the industry forward and helped create a superior timber product
Danny Hughes, Managing Director Allan Brothers.