UPVC Expansion | Do UPVC Doors Swell In Heat?

Do UPVC Doors Swell In Heat?

Is It Common For My uPVC To Swell In The Heat?

The quick answer to this is yes. However, with the right understanding and a bit of care uPVC, is still a cost-effective, reliable option for many homeowners. If you want to know a bit more about uPVC expansion and how to adjust a uPVC door, carry on reading.

What Is uPVC?

UPVC has been a common material for home improvements since the 1970s. It stands for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride and comes with a range of benefits for homeowners across the UK. UPVC is a hard plastic that adapts to a variety of uses throughout the home. The lightweight nature of UPVC remains rigid and very strong throughout the most testing of challenges. Therefore, PVCu will be a popular choice for home improvements for many years to come.

What Are The Benefits Of uPVC?

PVC is more than just a cost-effective option for your home. It provides a weather-resistant barrier that can provide insulation and can help with soundproofing. Furthermore, over the last few years, this low-maintenance material has become more customisable. That allows you to design a unique door or window set.

Customisable
Durable
Cost-effective
Provides insulation
Low-maintenance
Weather-resistant
Can help with soundproofing

Why Do uPVC Doors Swell In The Heat?

If you have noticed on a hot day that your doors are harder to open and close, or that they will not close completely, they may have expanded due to heat. However, don’t worry, this is a natural occurrence, and as the temperature cools down, the uPVC expansion will return to normal.

The swelling is what makes this material so versatile. PVCu is durable and flexible, meaning that it can withstand the most extreme weather conditions. Furthermore, in combination with the cost-effective nature of uPVC, it is an excellent choice for your home improvements.

Adjust uPVC Doors

If you are having problems with uPVC expansion and you are struggling to close your door, there are a few options that you can do to help. In extreme circumstances, uPVC expanding can prevent doors and windows from closing. However, if you are in a rush to revert this uPVC expansion, pouring cold water over the door or patting it down with a wet cloth, can speed up the process.

Another option is adjusting the hinges. However, we would not recommend this option. Because when the uPVC expansion shrinks it can cause problems with the opening and closing of the door or window.

Should I Choose A different Door?

PVC doors are an excellent choice when it comes to home improvements. Many benefits can exceed the occasional uPVC enlargement. However, if uPVC expansion is a common occurrence, then it may be a better choice with composite, timber or even Aluminium. The choice is up to you, and PVCu can be one of the most suitable options for many people. However, if uPVC expansion is a significant inconvenience, you may be better suited to a different material.

If you want to know what other door options you have, take a look at our door page here.

Recap Of Why UPVC Doors Swell In Heat

PVC can be one of the most suitable and cost-effective choices on the market. If you are having problems with uPVC expansion, then following a few of our simple steps can help to resolve the issue. However, if it is a severe problem in your home, then you may want to consider an alternative material.

If you need any help with your PVC doors or want to get expert advice from a trusted company like St Helens Windows, get in touch. Call 01744 611 203 to speak to one of our specialist team.