Concerns for the environment are growing – but plastic isn’t so bad – it can be recycled.
We are all becoming increasingly concerned about the impact of our actions on the environment. The built environment is one of the worst when it comes to eco-pollution. For those people opting for uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) windows and doors, it’s good to know they can be recycled when the time comes for them to be replaced.
Excell Timber Windows only supplies uPVC from one supplier – The Residence Collection because we believe they are one of the best companies in terms of quality, performance and aesthetic.
When they come to the end of their life, though, what happens?
What are uPVC Windows made of?
Before addressing recyclability, it’s essential to grasp the composition of uPVC windows. uPVC, unlike traditional PVC, is a rigid and stable material that does not contain plasticisers, making it less harmful to both health and the environment.
Challenges in Recycling uPVC Windows
While uPVC is recyclable, uPVC windows consist of multiple materials, including glass panes, metal components (such as hinges and locks), and seals, all of which must be separated before recycling can occur.
Advancements in uPVC Recycling
Despite these challenges, advancements in technology and increased awareness of environmental concerns are driving progress in uPVC recycling. Innovations such as specialised machinery and processes for separating uPVC from other materials have improved the feasibility of recycling uPVC windows.
FENSA – the windows trade body runs an excellent recycling scheme for its members.
Once collected, the end-of-life PVC-U windows, door frames and offcuts are re-processed to produce a recycled pellet. This is then used to make new uPVC products either directly or by combining with virgin material to make new windows and doors.
This avoids the need for old windows to end up in landfill and helping the industry and homeowners alike to be more sustainable.
The Importance of proper Disposal and Recycling
Disposing of uPVC windows in landfills not only contributes to environmental pollution but also squanders valuable resources that could otherwise be reclaimed through recycling.
Excell always ensure our products are disposed of sensitively and we have a comprehensive environmental policy.
Sustainability and reducing our impact on the environment is really important to us. We manage our business in order to create as minimal an impact as we can and to support our customers to do the same.
Martin Serjeant, Excell Timber Windows