Benefits of uPVC Guttering
Why would you choose uPVC guttering?
Plastics have changed the manufacturing landscape dramatically over the last 20+ years. A lot of household materials are made with plastics, specifically uPVC, which is hard and rigid. uPVC is commonly used for guttering as it is lightweight and hardwearing. As a result, products made with uPVC have a good level of longevity.
Why is uPVC used?
Lightweight
uPVC stands for unplasticized polyvinyl chloride. UPVC guttering is used as it can be easily transported and fitted by novices and specialists alike. The lightweight nature of plastic means it is also a lot safer to install at heights.
Durable
uPVC guttering is made from moulded plastic, so the shape isn’t bent or manipulate. This causes the material to be stronger as there are much fewer weak points. As uPVC is consistent throughout the material, any dents, scratches or scuffs are less visible. Whereas metal alternatives show damage a lot easier.
Easy accessibility
uPVC guttering is the low-cost option for guttering. Due to the mass production and cost, they are easy to find pieces if you need to repair existing guttering. uPVC guttering repairs are much cheaper than if you had metal alternatives.
How easy is it to clean uPVC guttering?
uPVC guttering has very little friction, therefore, makes it harder for dirt to stick to it. The same goes for cleaning, it can be jet washed effortlessly. You can get up there on a ladder with a bucket of warm water and a sponge as well, but a hose is usually more than enough.
How can you perform uPVC guttering repairs?
Depending on what has happened, there are a few things you can do yourself regarding uPVC guttering repairs. If the gutter is blocked, then it could be due to debris getting lodged in the drain or at the top. Simply climb up a ladder and use a trowel to remove anything in there. If the water is not draining, then it might be that you need to realign the uPVC guttering. Replace or tighten any lose screws and check there is around 3mm of fall for every meter of uPVC guttering.
Do you need a uPVC guttering installer?
If you are unsure about completing any uPVC guttering repairs or replacements, then it may be best to hire an experienced uPVC guttering installer. If you were to make a mistake, then it may end up costing more to rectify the damage than if you had reached out to a uPVC guttering installer in the first instance.
The environmental impact of uPVC guttering
With everyone being much more aware of their carbon footprint, it is important to understand how uPVC affects the environment. uPVC is plastic and can come with a higher carbon footprint than other materials. The plus side is that uPVC is recyclable so if you need to replace broken components of the uPVC guttering then there are options to have it recycled. UPVC guttering is durable so you will be able to use them for a while, meaning that less will need to be produced.