The Australian construction industry has evolved considerably over the past decade. Sustainability is now front and centre, with new buildings required to meet a 7-star NatHERS energy rating under the National Construction Code (NCC), plus achieve a Whole-of-Home rating.
uPVC window and door systems are increasingly seen as a strategic way to enhance the energy efficiency and overall sustainability and longevity of a property. However, it is essential that the UPVC being used meets the requirements of the harsh Australian climate, rather than milder European conditions.
Thermotek is a member of the uPVC Windows Alliance, an initiative of the Vinyl Council of Australia. Its aim is to advocate for the use of uPVC as a sustainable choice for window and door systems, plus act as an authority on its deployment in Australia.
The uPVC Windows Alliance has developed the Industry Code of Practice (ICP) accreditation scheme to test and certify that specified uPVC window and door profiles are suitable for Australian conditions.
Let's take a closer look at the accreditation and why, once it has been certified uPVC is an excellent choice for window profiles in Australia.
Firstly, exactly why is ICP accreditation important?
According to Geoscience Australia, we have the highest solar radiation per square metre of land of any continent. While this means that the potential for clean solar energy is huge, it also means that construction materials are exposed to harsh conditions.
While it is an inherently robust material, uPVC that has been developed for structures in Europe or Asia often aren't durable enough for our climate, leading to discolouring and embrittlement over time.
ICP accreditation is the first official method designed to identify uPVC window profiles that have been specifically designed and manufactured to withstand the unique pressures of the Australian climate.
The ICP is the only standard for specific composition, weathering resistance, colour and impact strength requirements for extruded uPVC window and door profiles in Australian buildings.
How is ICP accreditation achieved?
ICP accreditation is rigorous. uPVC window profiles are tested independently and undergo two years of exposure at the Allunga Exposure Laboratory in Townsville, Far North Queensland. The uPVC frames must meet robust strength and colour retention criteria to be certified.
Manufacturers of profiles verified as meeting the ICP performance requirements, such as Thermotek, are entitled to use the licensed ICP accreditation mark.
This mark then acts as a straightforward way for architects, specifiers, builders, and their clients to identify accredited UPVC profiles tested for quality and performance in Australia's extreme climate.
In what ways do uPVC window and door profiles enhance sustainability?
UPVC differs from standard PVC in that it is made without chemical plasticisers. The manufacturing process integrates robust impact modifiers and fillers along with long, spaghetti-like polymer strands, giving UPVC an exceptional toughness and durability.
As a construction material, it is an exceptional insulator, assisting with temperature control and reducing energy consumption. It is durable, recyclable and energy efficient, making it a highly desirable for both residential and commercial structures.
When combined with double glazing, uPVC can be a lynchpin of sustainable design in Australia.
How does uPVC bolster energy efficiency?
While Australia's solar radiation is high, our geographical breadth means that we experience diverse weather conditions across the country.
A huge advantage of uPVC is that its outstanding insulation helps keep a home comfortable throughout all seasons - warm in winter and cool in summer. This significantly reduces the need for heating and air-conditioning
Double or Triple Glazing Add Extra Insulation
If double or triple glazing is used, the two (or three) panes of glass create an insulating barrier. The gap between the panes is typically filled with air or inert gases. Both of these are poor heat conductors and reduce heat transfer. Double glazing also reduces condensation, reducing damp and the risk of mould.
Airtightness is another essential component of energy efficiency. Thermotek uPVC window and door systems have state-of-the-art sealing, reducing air leaks and drafts and creating a controlled inner environment.
In addition to ICP accreditation, all of our windows - including our versatile Sliding Systems - feature innovative locking mechanisms and high-quality sealing with no brushes.
This combination of features leads to greater energy efficiency - which in turn means lower utility bills.
How durable are Thermotek's uPVC window profiles?
Having received ICP accreditation, the strong composition of Thermotek uPVC window and door systems has been proven. They are able to withstand extreme weather conditions and physical stress. This holds true for both extreme heat and cold.
Thermotek also combines world-class German engineering with local manufacturing in Melbourne, tailoring the uPVC window and door profiles to Australian conditions.
Our uPVC profiles are able to withstand high temperatures, intense sunlight and coastal air without deteriorating. The material requires little maintenance, making it an ideal choice for a board range of residential and commercial buildings.
Another pro of uPVC is that the more it is recycled, the stronger it becomes. Its durability is actually enhanced even further over time, making it an excellent choice for circular design.
Is uPVC suitable for bushfire-prone areas?
Yes. The strength of UPVC means that it can withstand high temperatures and harsh conditions. In Australia, a Bushfire Attack Level (BAL) rating of 40 is part of the Australian standards for building in bushfire-prone areas. Thermotek windows meet BAL 40 requirements.
As the world unfortunately gets hotter, using BAL 40 materials is desirable even in areas that aren't usually threatened by bushfires. Double glazing also adds another layer of protection for residents. It can reduce the level of radiant heat that passes through the window. Tight sealing also protects against penetration from embers.
Are uPVC window and door profiles cost effective?
Thermotek uPVC windows offer a balance of quality and affordability. Incorporating high performance features, they can help achieve sustainable design while being more cost-effective than other options like thermally broken aluminium.
As with all good, sustainable design, the initial investment may be slightly higher than some of the basic materials on the market. However, the long-term benefits far outweigh this. Utility bills will be significantly reduced, the home will be comfortable in a world of rising temperatures and the materials will not need to be replaced for many decades. When and if they do, it can be recycled, going back into the circular design system and limiting the need for the production of new materials.
Australia works with the rest of the world towards Net Zero 2050, investing in UPVC window and door stems is a great way to meet the energy efficiency requirements of the National Construction Code (NCC) id drastically lower a home's environmental footprint.
Are uPVC windows soundproof?
Sustainable design goes beyond carbon footprint. It also incorporates how a dwelling works within an environment.
In metropolitan areas, noise pollution can be a challenge. Thanks to their sturdiness and the 5-champer profile composition, Thermotek UPVC window and door profiles offer excellent sound insulation, creating a cosy living environment.
Double or triple glazing also bolsters noise insulation. Remember that the two or three layers of glass in Thermotek window and door systems are separated by a gap filled with inert gas. Sound waves lose energy as they pass through different mediums, so the journey through glass to gas and back to glass diminishes the sound's intensity. The thick structure also makes them less prone to vibration in response to sound waves.
The tight sealing and smart locking systems also enhance noise proofing. This ensures that there are no gaps for sound to pass through and the entire unit acts as an effective sound barrier.
Thus, Thermotek uPVC window and door systems are a crucial part of sustainable living, as well as sustainable design.
Do uPVC window and door systems offer design versatility?
Absolutely! In addition to their tough credentials and ICP accreditation, Thermotek window and door systems have a sleek aesthetic which can adapt to many building designs. Our Boutique Series combines visual styling with superior energy efficiency and is available in a stunning range of Architectural and Woodgrain colours.
Find out more about how our ICP-accredited Thermotek window and door systems can enhance your building project. Contact us today.
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