Plastic is a versatile, lightweight, flexible, moisture resistant, strong, and relatively inexpensive product to produce, with over 300 million tons of plastic being produced each year. Due to these qualities there is an over-consumption of plastic goods and packaging. However, these same qualities are the cause of more than 8 million tons of plastic in the oceans. This waste plastic is to blame for 100,000 marine mammal deaths a year and over a million sea bird deaths.
We at David H Wright Joinery passionately believe in conservation for all life on earth.
In the oceans today for every square mile of water there is at least 46,000 pieces of plastic!
It is not just the plastic itself that causes the deaths, but also the toxic chemicals released when it starts to decompose.
We asked Sharon at David H Wright joinery to share some of the common misconceptions of timber (wood) and uPVC materials that are used in the manufacturing of windows and doors.
Myth #1: Only uPVC allows double glazing
Sharon says, “INCORRECT, Wood window frames are double or even triple glazed, making them just as energy efficient and heat and sound saving.”
Myth #2: Wood rots quickly
Sharon says, “INCORRECT! Accoya actually last 3-5 times longer than uPVC, which become brittle and discoloured very quickly due to sun exposure.”
Myth #3: Wooden windows are not allowed to be installed in Conservation & Heritage Properties?
Sharon says, “INCORRECT! Period properties, or those in a conservation areas have such specific requirements that only Timber is able to achieve the required specifications and attention to detail that conservation officers require. uPVC cannot achieve those exacting requirements.
Myth #4: Maintaining wooden frames is hard work
Sharon says, “INCORRECT! Accoya frames come pre-finished and have a lifespan of up to 15 years. When they do need re-painting, it is a simple job of padding down and adding 1-2 coats on the surfaces where applicable. It’s also really quick and simple and does not need to be expensive.
Myth #5: Wood windows are less secure than uPVC
Sharon says, “INCORRECT All our Accoya frames are fitted with Multipoint “A rated” cutting edge locking technology that complies with all of the insurance and technical specifications that are required on both new builds and existing properties ”
Myth #6: uPVC is more energy efficient
Sharon says, “INCORRECT –All of our timbers are Responsibly sourced timber and have a much lower impact on both the environment energy ratings than uPVC frames. That is why we find that timber is perfect to make any project an eco-project.”
The Alternatives
Plastic is used in plastic bottles, product packaging, window frames and synthetic nylon products. For packaging, and other items there are obvious alternatives such as cardboard and paper, but what about for your window frames?
We recommend and only use sustainably sourced timber.
Wooden frames are the perfect alternative, and far more economical than plastic. Not only do they suit both modern, and period listed properties but they can be matched to existing properties for those within a conservation area. A reliably sourced wooden frame can last for centuries when taken care of, which does not require much work.
Our favourite timber at David H Wright Joinery is Accoya.
What is Accoya®, and why choose it?
Sharon, and the team at David H Wright Joinery, use Accoya® as a sustainable alternative to plastic. As Sharon states, “Accoya® is a long lasting wood that has a minimal environment impact, yet versatile and adaptable to any home.” It is GUARANTEED for 60 years (yes we did say 60 years!!!)
Accoya® timber is created from a tree called “radiated pine” that is grown in New Zealand and takes 35 years to grow. It is then chemically treated with acetic acid (commonly known as vinegar) to form Accoya® timber.
Finished in nearly every colour imaginable to match your home, the finish will last 3-5 times longer than plastic window frames, and Accoya™ does not swell or absorb water due to its modified properties.
Accoya® is an environmentally friendly, solid timber with durability, dimensional stability and beauty that matches or exceeds even the best tropical hardwood.
