Windows made of uPVC versus wood are a great social divider, much like hot tubs, solar panels and fake grass! Because anyone adding 'plastic' windows to their home are more concerned about cost than beauty whilst wood is perceived to be authentic and 'green'?

Not so long ago most windows and their frames were made of wood and, to a lesser extent, aluminium. But during the 1960s improved uPVC manufacturing quality created a low cost, easy-to-make alternative that now accounts for 90% of all new windows installed in the UK.

The use of uPVC has been under attack for a number of years, primarily because of its association with chlorine chemistry. However modern uPVC is durable, low-maintenance, recyclable and performs well in life cycle assessment tests.

Wooden windows may have aesthetic appeal and be fully recyclable and biodegradeable but the latest uPVC range from SafeChoice has the look and feel of real wood as well as the following benefits:

- Low Cost

By far the greatest benefit of uPVC windows is their significantly lower cost compared to wood. A reasonable rule of thumb would be that wood costs more than twice as much as uPVC, although both cost the same to install. A covetable timber window could set you back around £650, yet the uPVC version costs from just £300.

- Low Maintenance

Once installed a uPVC window requires little or no maintenance unlike solid wood, which requires regular sanding and repainting to ensure its longevity.

- Superior Insulation

Another reason people have, in the past, embraced uPVC is its superior insulation. Wooden windows not so long ago had just a single pane while uPVC windows were launched as a double-gazed product. SafeChoice also now offer a triple glazed option for even greater energy saving benefits.

Prices for SafeChoice uPVC double and triple glazed windows, supplied and fitted, start from £300. For further information visit www.safechoice.co.uk or call freephone 0800 024 6230.