With the entry of uPVC in the
fenestration market, both builders and homeowners have benefited a lot from the
advantages of uPVC over other materials like wood and aluminum. But this wasn’t
the case before early 2000 when uPVC was not in the market. With time and
growing issues like environmental pollution, deforestation, and price reduction
in real estate, the need for an alternate fenestration material was sought
after, and hence the invention and entry of uPVC in the market.
But before we go into the core of
this post, let me tell you what is uPVC windows and doors.
Upvc is a type of PVC, except that uPVC, is different in its very chemical
composition. This difference gives upvc its unique characteristics in strength,
flexibility, and durability.
From being a better sound insulation
material to being a more cost-effective and durable material, upvc hit the
market with like a storm and captured many new buyers and investors. But the
major problem that the market here in India faced and still faces is the lack
of a legitimate quality standard and regulation.
This has led to the manufacturing of substandard products in the market in
bulk. One of the reasons why this is very prevalent is that genuine uPVC is
more expensive than domestically manufactured ones as they come from European
countries. Of course, there are high-quality uPVC manufacturers in India also,
but because of the lack of quality standards, their brands and reputation are
also tarnished. There have been many cases of consumers being cheated on uPVC sliding windows in Bangalore,
Mumbai, and Delhi.
But having said that the other major
reason for customers being cheated on uPVC products is the lack of awareness
among consumers. And so here are some key points, you as a consumer, needs to
understand.
1. Before you make a purchase on any
of uPVC products, ensure that the profile meets the quality standards on par
with the international standards. Go and look upon international standards on
uPVC. This may take some of your time, but it will be worth it.
2. Before you buy ant uPVC product,
ensure that you are provided with the test certificate from a well-known lab
from your supplier. This will ensure and guarantee you that the product is of
good quality and genuine. If you do not get this certificate from your
suppliers, it’d be wise not to buy the product. These certificates will also
ensure the guarantee on the performance of the product under various
environments. There may be stability issues with the product in case of a
substandard product.
3. There is also a standard on the
size of uPVC profiles. But in order to cut cost, many manufacturers have
resorted to the malpractice of not sticking to this standard and have
compromised on the standard size of the product. As a consumer look up the
internet for information on the height and width of an international standard
uPVC product. Make sure that what you are purchasing is in line with
international standards and measures.
4. Another very important feature to
look out for is the thickness of steel which needs to be as per the quality
standards. In the case that steel reinforcement is not right, not only will the
product underperform but there are also dangers in terms of the
structure.
5. Lastly, ensure that the hardware
is of high quality.
In conclusion, remember that quality
needs to be the topmost in your priorities checklist. Even though it may cost
you some couple of thousands more, it will save you from losing the double of
it.
