Best Materials for Doors and Windows in Nepal
2024-05-05 12:13:21
Doors and windows are essential elements for building as they are the visual link that connects different space, entrance and exit. Besides being perfect for exterior look, the door and window must be made in the right terms with the right design and right materials.
These Days, there are a number of materials choices available in the market, so choosing the right materials can be challenging at a time. The majority of doors and windows of Kathmandu valley are made from high grade uPVC, however other materials like timber and aluminium designs also have their benefits. In this article, we'll discuss the available materials for the door and window construction alongside their strength which you might consider while selecting the best one for your house.
1. Wood
Wood is the most popular type of material which has been in use for over decades in Nepal. Nothing can compare when it comes to the classic traditional appearance of timber windows and doors. Wooden architecture profiles have a timeless appearance which adds softness and brings an element of warmth to the decor of your home. It adds a touch of authenticity to properties.
Why to use Wooden Door and Window?
Wooden frames are durable and strong and if well maintained, these can last for several decades.
Such frames work as an effective natural insulator.
Timber frames never go out of fashion and bring authenticity and warmth to the space.
In Nepal, generally the ground floor's doors and windows are made up of wood/timber materials for the purpose of security whilst the upper floor's are replaced by other materials.
Wooden frames provide better security than other materials.
Apart from the advantages, wood/timber also have some disadvantages:
Wood is an expensive material so the total cost might be huge compared to other materials.
Such frames need to have coats of painting over a period of 5 years which makes it more costly.
These are susceptible to weather damage and can lose their shape over time by the fluctuation of weather.
Such frames can allow cold draughts to enter the home if they aren't maintained properly.
It gets easily affected by the dampness and weather also by the insect attacks so proper maintenance is needed.
2. Aluminium
Aluminium materials are budget friendly materials which are durable and long lasting alongside with its sleek design. Most of the houses of Nepal are constructed using the aluminium material because it is of lower cost than the wooden material as it is affordable for any time of construction. If you're looking for a budget friendly, sleek designed, strong and affordable material then aluminium might be just the right choice for you.
Why to use Aluminium Door and Window?
Aluminium are budget-friendly and economical as they cost much less than wooden material thus, lowering the total cost of construction.
Such frames are light-weight material which is easy to install and provides enough support for heavy loads.
Aluminium-framed doors and windows do not swell or crack like wooden materials.
These are recyclable materials and can be easily shaped into different forms.
These are best if you're looking to install large glazing panels.
Such frames require minimal maintenance and are easy to keep clean.
Apart from the advantages, aluminium also have some disadvantages:
These are prone to water staining.
They do not possess effective thermal performance as wood or UPVC – as aluminium is a conductive metal.
They may not provide as much security as wooden frames.
3. uPVC
One of the most popular materials for doors and windows that we can find common in almost all households of Nepal is uPVC. The popularity of uPVC is because of its undoubtable quality, strength, durability and most importantly the cost. Without any compromise to the functional property, uPVC doors and windows prove to be the best choice if you're looking for budget friendly and economical material.
Why use uPVC Door and Window?
uPVC offers reliable long term performance without causing any structural damages like corrosion or rusting.
Such doors and windows are lightweight, strong and highly durable as they do not rust, corrode or flake like other materials.
These are the most economical and cheap materials when it comes to constructing a house as its cost is approx. 200 times less than the cost of wood.
These are durable, strong, weather resistant that can be easily customised to any type complimenting the properties of all ages.
uPVC doors and windows provide much enhanced security as they can easily install multiple-lock systems and shootbolt locks.
These are easy maintenance and easy to clean.
Apart from the advantages, uPVC also have some disadvantages:
Such frames may discolour due to sunlight exposure and turn yellowish over a long time.
uPVC doors and windows are available in very limited colours and designs.
Cost Comparison of Wooden, Aluminium and uPVC
1. Wooden Doors and Windows
It costs Rs. 6000-7000 per square feet.
It costs over Rs. 50,000 to construct one wooden window
It costs over Rs. 3000 for painting 1 litre over the window as per today's market value.
2. Aluminium Doors and Windows
It costs over 10-20 percent less than uPVC.
It costs Rs. 500-600 per square feet.
3. uPVC Door and Window
It costs over Rs. 600-800 per square feet which may vary according to the brand.
It costs almost 200 times less than wooden materials, almost Rs. 1500-1600 per square feet.
Thus, with the above information you might get the right information to choose the appropriate materials for your door and window.
