Knowing how to choose uPVC windows for your home isn’t always straightforward. There’s glazing type, energy ratings, guarantees, hardware quality, frame profiles, and a long list of manufacturers to weigh up.
This guide walks through what actually matters, plus a look at some of the most well-known UK manufacturers and suppliers.
Glazing Options
Some manufacturers offer either double glazing or triple glazing with their frames. Either option is very energy efficient, and could save you up to £120 a year on your energy bills.
Either glazing option proves very cost-effective in the long run, though triple glazing generally costs more upfront in exchange for slightly better insulation and noise reduction.
Window Energy Rating
The first thing we’d recommend looking out for is the colourful Window Energy Rating (WER) label, which is an easy way to see how different products compare on energy efficiency.
This WER label uses a traffic light colour code from A++ to E based on total energy efficiency, where an A++ rated window is the most energy-efficient and E is the least energy efficient. You’ll find the rating at the top of the label, shown as a letter with its associated colour band.
Bear in mind that the potential energy saving shown only indicates the efficiency of the window itself: how much you actually save once it’s installed will also depend on external factors, such as the window’s location, the efficiency of your heating system, and other factors.
Best uPVC Window Profiles Explained
The frame profile, the internal structure of the uPVC itself, matters just as much as the glazing when it comes to how well a window performs.
In general, the more internal chambers a profile has, the better it insulates, since each chamber traps a layer of air that slows down heat loss. Some of the best quality uPVC windows use multi-chambered profiles at a greater depth (commonly in the region of 70mm or more), giving stronger thermal performance and rigidity than older, thinner single or twin-chamber designs.
If a manufacturer or installer can tell you the profile depth and number of chambers used, it’s a good sign they’re confident in the product’s build quality, not just its finish.
Window Guarantee
Generally speaking, the longer the guarantee, the more confidence the manufacturer has in their product.
If you’re asked to make a deposit on order, we’d recommend only doing so if the manufacturer offers an insurance-backed warranty (this makes sure your money is safe and sound).
Window Furniture
Have a look at what window furniture, or hardware, is fitted to your new windows. Some manufacturers offer a separate warranty clause for hardware, so it’s worth checking this specifically.
A quick window furniture checklist:
The handles should be fitted securely and not wobble
The hinges should be robust and feature stainless steel screws
The interlockers, the small angled blocks fitted at a few points around the inner frame, should be fitted securely and not wobble
The multi-point locking system should be fitted and secured
uPVC Window Styles And Types
There isn’t just one style to choose from. The types of uPVC windows available today range from budget-friendly to premium, and the right one for you depends on your property and priorities:
Casement: the most popular and typically most affordable style in the UK, opening outward on hinges, with a flush casement version available for a neater, more streamlined finish.
Tilt and turn: opens inward from the top for secure ventilation, or fully inward for easy cleaning, popular for flats and upper floors.
Sash: available as a traditional vertical sliding sash or a flush sash design that mimics period timber joinery, suited to character properties.
Bay and bow: curved or angled multi-pane designs that add extra space and light, typically used for larger front-facing rooms.
French and patio-style: wider, door-height glazed openings, often chosen where a window doubles as access to a garden or balcony.
You can compare current pricing for casement windows, tilt and turn windows, and bay and bow windows to see how each style compares on cost.
Well-Known uPVC Window Manufacturers And Suppliers
Now that we’ve covered the main things to look for, here’s some essential information on a few of the most well-known manufacturers and suppliers out there.
Anglian Home Improvements
Anglian Home Improvements is one of the UK’s most popular manufacturers and approved installers of double glazing, doors, and conservatories. Made in Britain, its frames are available in a large range of colours and finishes, and you can choose from A or A+ double glazing, or upgrade to A++ triple glazing.
Britelite
Britelite has been fitting quality windows, doors, and conservatories in Kent, Sussex, Surrey and London for over 45 years. Offering three different styles, casement, sliding sash, and traditional Residence 9, its frames will look great and can be customised to suit your home’s individual style.
Safestyle
Safestyle is the UK’s number one for replacement energy-efficient windows and doors across England and Wales. You’re in safe hands here, with casement, sash, and tilt and turn styles all available, its frames help improve both the energy efficiency and security of your home.
Everest
Everest is a national company with a local presence, offering a bespoke service that works with you to create stylish products for your home. With casement, sash, and tilt and turn styles on offer, each window from Everest comes complete with advanced Yale locking technology, keeping your home safe and secure.
Compare uPVC Windows With Compare Companies
uPVC remains one of the most common frame materials in the UK. Available in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colours, we’re confident we can help you find the right uPVC window for you.
To get started, simply compare double glazed window costs, see current uPVC window prices specifically, or alternatively contact us and we’ll get back to you.
Frequently Asked Questions
How do you choose the best uPVC windows for your home?
Start with the Window Energy Rating label, aim for A or above, then compare glazing options (double vs triple), check the guarantee length and whether it’s insurance-backed, and inspect the quality of the window furniture (handles, hinges, interlockers, and multi-point locking).
From there, it’s worth comparing a few manufacturers or installers to see which best matches your budget and style.
What should you look for when buying uPVC windows?
Look for a clear WER label, a glazing option that suits your budget and insulation needs, a solid guarantee (ideally insurance-backed if you’re paying a deposit), well-built hardware, and an installer accredited by a recognised trade body such as FENSA or CERTASS.
Who makes the best uPVC windows in the UK?
There’s no single answer. Anglian offers a wide colour range and glazing upgrades up to A++ triple glazing, Britelite specialises in period styling across the South East, Safestyle covers England and Wales with a strong focus on security, and Everest offers a bespoke, made-to-measure service.
Comparing quotes from a few of these is the best way to find the right fit for your home.
What are the different types and styles of uPVC window?
The main styles are casement (the most popular and affordable), tilt and turn (ideal for flats and easy cleaning), sash (traditional sliding or flush sash for period homes), bay and bow (for extra space and light), and French or patio-style openings. Each is available in a range of frame profiles and finishes.
What is the difference between A, A+ and A++ rated uPVC windows?
These ratings come from the Window Energy Rating (WER) scale, which runs from A++ (most efficient) down through the alphabet to G (least efficient).
An A++ rated window offers the best insulation and lowest heat loss, A+ and A are still strong performers, and anything lower means less efficient glazing and frame combinations.
The rating reflects the whole unit’s performance, U-value, solar heat gain, and air leakage, not just the glass.
How long do uPVC windows last?
With proper installation and basic care, uPVC frames typically last in the region of 20 to 35 years, though this varies by manufacturer, profile quality, and how exposed the property is to the elements. A longer manufacturer’s guarantee is usually a good indicator of how long you can expect a particular product to perform well.
