What a UPVC profile is
First things first, what is a UPVC profile?
UPVC is the abbreviated name for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride. It starts as a plastic powder, which is heated to create a liquid to inject into a mould. The mould is a long strip, ideal for manufacturing UPVC windows. Once cooled, the UPVC is cut to form the base of the frame for a double or triple-glazed window.
The ‘profile’ is simply the type of UPVC window frame the UPVC is created for. Different types of windows have different UPVC profiles designed to provide structural support and solutions such as superior energy efficiency.
The different UPVC profile types
There are three main types of UPVC profiles:
- Chamfered
- Ovolo
- Flush
Chamfered
With its neat and linear look, the Chamfered profile is a popular choice for modern homes. The clean lines and flat edges fit a contemporary aesthetic, but the unfussy finish makes them incredibly versatile.
Ovolo
Rounded edges and sculptured framing make Ovolo windows the perfect profile for a traditional yet timeless look. Ideal for heritage properties, it can also enhance modern properties, lending character and elegance to contemporary country homes with its soft sightlines and curved shape.
Flush
A flush UPVC profile is seen in casement windows that fit flush against the window frame, as opposed to overlapping the frame, as in stormproof windows. It is characterised by sleek lines and has a timeless appearance.
The Top 10 UPVC Profiles:
The profile also refers to the manufacturer/supplier.
Although each profile has pros and cons, the following are the top-performing 10 UPVC manufacturers operating in the UK in 2025, in alphabetical order:
- Deceuninck Heritage
- Duraflex Diamond Suite
- Eurocell Modus
- Kommerling 76
- Liniar EnergyPlus
- Profile 22
- Rehau Total70
- Residence Collection
- Selecta Advance 70
- Veka Halo
Deceuninck Heritage
As a global leader in UPVC window systems, Deceuninck’s heritage collection combines the classic look of traditional timber windows with multi-chambered technology for superior sound and thermal insulation. The finishes are long-lasting, and there are over 20 colourways, including heritage tones, which are perfect for period properties.
Duraflex Diamond Suite
Duraflex is a budget-friendly, multi-chambered window system offering A++ energy efficiency and U-values as low as 0.8 in Bevelled and Featured profiles. Pre-inserted Q-Lon weather seals enhance weather resistance, insulation and acoustic performance.
Eurocell Modus
Operating since 1974, Eurocell is regarded as the UK’s first all-round UPVC company – manufacturing, supplying, distributing and recycling UPVC products.
Kommerling 76
Kommerling offers a range of heritage features such as dedicated face-fix Georgian bars, traditional butt joints and finishes like English Oak and Painswick for an authentic aesthetic.
Combine this with modern technology such as excellent thermal performance and an optional centre seal for improved weather resistance, and it’s not hard to see why Kommerling is one of the most popular UPVC profiles in the UK today.
Liniar EnergyPlus
A forward-thinking company, Liniar offers the latest in double-glazing technology, trapping warm pockets of air between 4 and 6 chambers to improve thermal efficiency.
Unique designs (R9 and R7) replicate 19th-century timber windows. Windows have Secured by Design accreditation.
Profile 22 Optima
Usually battling with Rehau for UPVC window supremacy, Profile 22 boasts the UK’s largest UPVC windows and doors profile and easily incorporates triple-glazing. Thermal inserts can be added to the windows to further enhance insulation. Mechanical jointing means traditional timber joints can be faithfully replicated and enhanced with heritage-looking dummy peg stays and monkey-tail handles.
The largest UPVC window and door profile in the UK, Profile 22 windows incorporate triple glazing seamlessly.
Rehau Total70
Established in Bavaria, Germany, in 1948, Rehau is one of, if not the leading manufacturers and suppliers of the best UPVC products in the UK. The company is credited with reinventing windows for a modern, sustainable way of living.
Choose between chamfered or sculptured frames. A unique five-chambered design offers unbeatable thermal performance.
Residence Collection
Arguably the best UPVC profile for period properties, Residence Collection offer bespoke designs and replicas of 19th-century British architecture. Cost-effective with attractive aesthetics, they offer a wide range of bespoke colours and finishes. Steel inserts are optional for improved strength. They are made with British Architecture in mind.
Selecta Advance 70
A family business operating under the same name for 35+ years, Selecta Systems has a reputation as one of the leading industry innovators.
Veka Halo
A German brand founded in 1969, Veka is the world’s largest manufacturer of extruded UPVC products and one of the most eco-conscious UPVC window and door suppliers in the UK. Having bought out rivals Halo, they offer a unique five-chambered design for unmatched thermal performance. A good eco-friendly choice, Veka Halo windows can help you lower your heating bills and carbon footprint. The profile is also exceptionally durable, secure and weatherproof.
The pros and cons of each UPVC profile
Profile | Price Range (per window) | Thermal Performance (U-Value) | Style Options | Pros | Cons |
Deceuninck Heritage | £500–£800 | 1.0 – 1.3 W/m²K | Flush Casement, French | Stylish, traditional look with modern performance | Higher cost compared to standard white profiles |
Duraflex Diamond Suite | £350–£500 | 1.2 – 1.4 W/m²K | Casement, Tilt & Turn, Bay | Budget-friendly, multi-chamber insulation | Limited premium design options |
Eurocell Modus | £450–£700 | 0.7 – 1.2 W/m²K | Casement, Tilt & Turn, Reversible | Exceptional U-value, recycled materials | Complex installation for certain window types |
Kömmerling 76 | £500–£750 | 0.9 – 1.3 W/m²K | Casement, Tilt & Turn, Sliding | High insulation, eco-friendly materials | Fewer style options for heritage properties |
Liniar EnergyPlus | £400–£600 | 0.8 – 1.2 W/m²K | Casement, Tilt & Turn, Flush | Superior energy efficiency, eco-friendly, multi-chamber design | Higher price point for advanced performance |
Profile 22 Optima | £400–£650 | 1.0 – 1.4 W/m²K | Casement, Bay, Tilt & Turn | Reliable, good for retrofitting older homes | Standard design lacks premium aesthetic appeal |
Rehau Total70 | £350–£550 | 1.0 – 1.3 W/m²K | Casement, French, Bay | Excellent noise reduction, durable, wide range of finishes | Slightly bulky appearance for some aesthetics |
Residence 9 | £600–£900 | 0.8 – 1.2 W/m²K | Flush Casement, Heritage Style | Authentic timber appearance, high energy efficiency | Premium pricing compared to standard profiles |
Selecta Advance 70 | £350–£550 | 1.2 – 1.4 W/m²K | Casement, French, Bay | Affordable, good thermal performance | Less premium finish compared to higher-end brands |
Veka Halo | £400–£650 | 1.0 – 1.3 W/m²K | Casement, Tilt & Turn, Bay | Strong, weather-resistant, good sound insulation | Limited availability of custom colours |
Key Insights:
- Best for Energy Efficiency: Eurocell Modus (U-value 0.7 W/m²K)
- Best for Noise Reduction: Rehau Total70
- Best for Heritage Homes: Residence 9 and Deceuninck Heritage
- Best Value for Money: Selecta Advance 70 and Duraflex Diamond Suite
Different window styles
Alongside the different UPVC profiles, you also have different styles of windows.
The main types of UPVC windows are:
- Casement
- Sliding sash
- Sliding Horizontally
- Tilt-and-Turn
- Bay
Style of Window | Features |
Casement | The most common type of window in modern UK homes, casement windows, swing outwards on hinges, similar to a door. The entire window can be opened, providing excellent ventilation, while airtight seals mean they are energy-efficient and offer excellent insulation when closed. This type of window has locks embedded in the frame for your security and peace of mind. |
Sliding Sash | Sliding sash windows feature one or more panels (sashes) which slide vertically over each other to open the window. Popular in Georgian and Victorian properties, they were traditionally made of timber but have been given a modern update with UPVC. Our sliding sash windows feature multi-point locking systems and are highly secure. |
Sliding Horizontally | Like sliding patio doors, sliding windows run horizontally along a track so you can control how ‘open’ you would like them to be. They use multi-point locks, so the panels cannot be lifted out to gain entry to your home. |
Tilt-and-Turn | Tilt-and-turn windows are a version of casement windows, where the window swings outwards vertically but can also be partially opened by tilting it inwards at the top or bottom. They are ideal for ventilating ground-floor rooms. |
Bay | Traditionally seen in period homes but also popular for modern UK homeowners, bay windows compromise three or more windows extending outwards from your home’s exterior wall. This creates a bowed or semi-circular bay in your room, increasing the living space and flooding the room with natural light. Each style of window offers benefits and potential drawbacks, so the decision is usually made according to your budget, personal preference and your home’s aesthetic. |
Conclusion
Given that your selection of windows can affect the overall energy efficiency, comfort and value of your home, it is important to make the right choice.
A high-quality window profile means a more effective window, but there are several excellent UPVC profiles in the UK market.
Which UPVC profile is best will depend on your specific requirements.
We cut through the jargon to help you make an informed choice. If you have any questions about our UPVC windows or alternative materials, please don’t hesitate to get in touch.
There are several ways to contact us. You can call or email us, visit us at our Altrincham showroom, or fill in our online contact form for a free, no-obligation quote. You can also find us on social media.
We look forward to hearing from you.
FAQs
The Rehau Total70 and Veka Halo profiles provide excellent soundproofing, reducing external noise by up to 45 dB.
Although the most popular colour of UPVC windows is still white, some customers are choosing grey, black, cream, pastel hues and even bright shades.
Coloured UPVC has the same profile as standard white but can be used to put your stamp on your home. You can opt for dual colours to match your interior and exterior architecture and decor.
Besides colours, UPVC windows are also available in wood-grain finishes, mimicking the appearance of traditional timber windows with all the benefits of UPVC. These finishes look authentic and can even be used in period properties to blend with other homes in the area.
Coloured and wood-grain finishes cost a little (around 10-20%) more than plain white UPVC frames but can help you make a statement or remain sympathetic to the property’s surroundings.
There are other considerations when choosing coloured UPVC. For example, black UPVC can fade in direct sunlight, so it is best not to use it in areas of maximum sun exposure.
UPVC is available in a rainbow of colours but you can also paint your existing UPVC windows using UPVC paint.
Modern coloured UPVC profiles are sprayed in the colour of your choice during manufacturing and are coated with UV-resistant finishes preventing fading and discolouration.
White profiles may offer a small advantage in solar heat reflection, making them better for hotter climates. Darker colours typically absorb heat from the sun, increasing thermal heat expansion, which could lead to warping and distortion over time. However, in the UK climate, this is not a major issue.
UPVC window profiles should last 20-30 years with minimal maintenance. However, some may last significantly longer with a little tlc.
Some factors can shorten the lifespan of a UPVC window, including:
- Long-term exposure to extreme weather conditions
- Poor installation
- A lack of basic maintenance
- Using excessive force to open or close your windows
To maximise your UPVC window profile:
- Regularly clean your windows
- Check and repair or replace weather stripping and window seals
- Lubricate locks and hinges
- Be gentle when opening and closing windows
How to Get in Touch
If you want to find out more about creating customised windows, doors, and conservatories, please don’t hesitate to get in touch. You can call us on 0161 976 4739, use our contact form or chat with us via the chat button at the bottom right of this website. If you live locally, you can also visit our Altrincham showroom, and check our contacts page for up-to-date opening hours.
We look forward to hearing from you!
