We install energy efficient uPVC windows and doors engineered with advanced European technology in homes across the Auckland region.
Up to 50% of a home’s heat is lost through windows and doors. With many Kiwi homes still too cold in winter and too hot in summer, uPVC is the smarter way to future-proof your home and enjoy better living—every season.
This page summarises the main advantages of using uPVC joinery in your home, whether you’re building from new or retrofitting.
Our German-engineered uPVC windows and doors, paired with high-performance double or triple glazing, offer industry-leading performance—designed for New Zealand conditions and built to last.
uPVC windows and doors keep your home comfortable all year round by naturally insulating against heat and cold. It helps reduce power bills, cuts down outside noise, and stands up to harsh UV without fading or cracking. Unlike timber or aluminium, it’s a sustainable, low-maintenance option that performs for decades.
Here in New Zealand, we've often just "put up with" cold, damp and unhealthy homes. So, if we want to build future-proof homes that stay comfortable, healthy, and energy efficient whatever the season, we must start by making smarter decisions about windows and doors.
We’re not limited to a single brand of uPVC joinery. Instead, we assess your unique needs and recommend the best solution for your home and budget. Our focus is on delivering the most advanced window and door systems available in New Zealand—so you can enjoy long-lasting comfort and complete peace of mind.
Exceptional energy performance - exceeding thermally broken aluminium or timber window systems.
The Impact of Better Windows
Single-glazed windows are the biggest source of heat loss in New Zealand homes. Cold, inefficient homes aren’t just uncomfortable—they're unhealthy and expensive to heat. Choosing thermally efficient uPVC joinery is a smarter, future-proof investment in your home’s health, comfort, and long-term savings.
When planning the type and placement of your windows and doors, it’s essential to consider climate conditions, indoor temperature, and overall comfort. Windows and doors play a key role in your home’s thermal performance. For example, large windows can let in too much heat during summer, making rooms uncomfortably warm. In winter, the same windows can allow valuable heat to escape.
To address these challenges, a wide range of modern window technologies is now available to improve insulation and energy efficiency. At a minimum, your windows and doors must meet the updated H1 energy efficiency requirements set out in the New Zealand Building Code. These vary depending on your location and climate zone.
Rather than relying on a one-size-fits-all solution, we recommend a tailored approach. Consider how each room is affected by the climate and choose products that complement those conditions. For example, in warmer regions, large north-facing windows should use solar control glass to reduce overheating. In colder climates, retaining indoor warmth is key, so low-E glass with smart ventilation can help keep things cool in summer without losing heat in winter.
Why Choose uPVC?
uPVC windows offer significantly higher thermal insulation even compared to the newest thermally broken aluminium systems. For instance, the uPVC systems we offer paired with Ug1.1 Low-E double glazing with Argon gas deliver an R-value of 0.74 – 0.77 - boosting thermal performance by 50% to 60% over aluminium or retrofit alternatives. For new builds, this added insulation not only improves comfort but also allows greater flexibility in the design of other building elements like roofs, walls, and floors for new-builds.
Our baseline uPVC double-glazed window system has an R-value of 0.74 - far outperforming aluminium frames using the same glass. That’s because uPVC frames contain internal air chambers that block heat and cold from passing through. Aluminium, by contrast, acts as a thermal bridge, conducting heat out and cold in.
Exceeding New Zealand Building Standards
To improve comfort and energy efficiency across the country, the New Zealand Building Code has increased thermal performance requirements for windows and doors. From November 2023, all new homes must use systems with an R-value of at least 0.46.
Double Glazing with Low-E and Argon Gas is our minimum standard. Our uPVC window systems - fitted with low-E glass with argon gas - easily meet and exceed this standard, with R-values of 0.7 and higher. At the top end, our advanced systems can even meet Passive House thermal standards for exceptional energy efficiency. Our triple-glazed panels take it to the next level, with an extraordinary R-value higher than R1.0
Condensation forms when cold window frames and glass surfaces meet warm indoor air, leading to mould, mildew, and damage to curtains, sills, and walls. This is bad for people’s health, irreparably damages the house’s internal components, and decreases its market value. While double glazing helps, standard aluminium frames still allow heat to escape, so condensation remains a problem.
Our uPVC windows solve this by using multi-chambered frames that insulate exceptionally well. They keep internal surfaces warmer, greatly reducing condensation and helping to maintain a healthier, drier home.
With proper ventilation and smart glazing, uPVC joinery removes the conditions mould needs to grow. And because our frames don’t require condensation holes or drains, they keep insects and cold air out too.
Made with high-quality German uPVC and fitted with efficient drainage, our double and triple-glazed units offer lasting comfort and protection. It is an affordable step towards a warmer, healthier home all year round.
Security is one of the most important features of any window or door. While all systems must meet minimum safety standards, our uPVC windows and doors go much further to keep your home safe and secure.
All our windows and doors feature multi-point locking systems secured through a reinforced steel core, making them highly resistant to forced entry. The sashes are glazed from the inside, preventing access through external glazing—a common weakness in standard systems.
For added protection, we offer toughened or laminated glass, privacy glass, and restrictor stays that allow ventilation without compromising safety. In high-risk areas, these upgrades provide extra peace of mind.
Our tilt-and-turn windows also offer secure ventilation - the tilt function keeps the window securely locked in a partially open position, for peace of mind and good airflow. Tilt & Turn windows and doors provide secure street-level ventilation option when in the tilt position, and allow for secure night ventilation, enabling occupants to leave the window ajar for fresh air without compromising security.
We work with premium European hardware suppliers like Maco, Roto-Frank and Sigenia to ensure top-quality components. These high-performance locks and fittings help prevent tampering and keep your windows securely aligned over time.
With uPVC windows and doors, strength and style go hand in hand. Every detail is designed to deter intruders and give you lasting confidence in your home’s security.
uPVC windows are excellent at blocking noise - far outperforming standard aluminium and timber frames. Combined with quality double or triple glazing, they can reduce outside noise by up to 80% or 35 dB, making your home noticeably quieter.
uPVC frames can accommodate thick insulated glass units (up to 41mm), allowing you to include acoustic glass for even greater sound reduction—ideal for homes near busy roads or flight paths.
Unlike aluminium, uPVC naturally absorbs sound. Our German-engineered systems include multi-chamber frames, welded joints, and dual rubber seals for superior acoustic insulation.
If you're tired of traffic, loud neighbours, or city noise, uPVC Windows and doors can help you create a peaceful, quiet space to rest, relax, and recharge.
Obviously, windows and doors are just one part of the equation, but the most important. For best results, consider the full building envelope - walls, roof, and floors also play a role in sound transmission. We are happy to give you advice on this too.
Our durable uPVC joinery requires very little upkeep. Unlike timber, uPVC won’t rot, warp, swell, or corrode - even in New Zealand’s harsh coastal or high-UV environments.
No Repainting Required - uPVC frames retain their colour and finish for decades without needing repainting or staining. Just an occasional clean with soapy water is enough to keep them looking new.
Built to Last - Resistant to moisture, salt, pests, and pollution, uPVC is the ideal choice for long-term performance with minimal effort. There’s no need for sanding, sealing, or ongoing treatments—freeing up your time and saving you money on maintenance costs.
Long Lasting & Durable - Our uPVC joinery is built to last over 40 years, even in New Zealand’s harsh conditions. It resists UV, moisture, rust, and corrosion, making it ideal for coastal and high-sun areas.
uPVC won’t rot, warp, or fade—and unlike timber or aluminium, it won’t swell or deform with temperature changes. It never needs painting, and maintenance is minimal—just occasional cleaning with soapy water and a quick check of the moving parts.
Independently tested and certified for New Zealand Building Code compliance and performance by the Building Research Association of New Zealand (BRANZ)
For our clients, a BRANZ Appraisal offers confidence in the quality and reliability of uPVC windows and doors, ensuring they perform effectively in New Zealand's unique climatic conditions. For designers and builders, it simplifies the building consent process by serving as credible evidence of compliance, thereby facilitating smoother approvals from Building Consent Authorities.
By choosing BRANZ-appraised uPVC windows and doors, you're investing in a product that has been thoroughly tested and verified for durability, performance, and compliance, providing peace of mind and contributing to the creation of safe, healthy, and energy-efficient homes.
uPVC joinery offers a range of special features that make it an excellent choice for New Zealand homes, combining durability, energy efficiency, and versatile design options.
One of the standout features of uPVC joinery is the variety of opening options available. Among these, the tilt-and-turn mechanism is particularly noteworthy.
This system offers two ways to open a window or door using a single handle. Tilt the handle once, and the window tilts inward from the top, letting in fresh air while allowing warm air to escape from the ceiling—ideal for secure, passive ventilation with minimal draft. This position is secure enough to leave open in most weather conditions, except during heavy driving rain.
Turn the handle again, and the window swings inward like a door, opening over 90 degrees. This allows for maximum airflow, easy cleaning, and clear views. When locked, the multi-point locking system seals the frame tightly, compressing the dual gaskets to ensure a draft-free, weatherproof seal—all operable with one hand. This system is ideally suited for ground floor joinery installations for its security benefits as well as for upper-story installations where the outside of the window can easily be cleaned from the inside.
Incorporating leadlight designs into uPVC frames is another feature that adds aesthetic appeal without compromising performance. This integration allows homeowners to enjoy the classic charm of leadlight windows while benefiting from the modern advantages of uPVC, such as improved insulation and reduced maintenance.
The construction design of uPVC joinery contributes significantly to its strength and longevity. Frames are created by fusion-welding the corners, resulting in a seamless, one-piece design that eliminates the need for rivets, screws, or joins. This method not only enhances the structural integrity of the frames but also prevents potential leaks at the joints. Additionally, steel sections are fitted within the uPVC profiles to provide added rigidity and strength, ensuring the frames can withstand various stresses and strains over time.
Weather resistance is a critical consideration in New Zealand's varied climate zones, and uPVC joinery excels in this regard. The sealed systems are designed to keep out wind, rain, and drafts, maintaining a comfortable indoor environment regardless of external weather conditions. The hardware used in these windows and doors is engineered to close all opening frames tightly together, compressing the twin rubber seals to keep the home airtight. This feature is particularly beneficial for passive homes, where energy efficiency and airtightness are paramount.
Glazing:
uPVC joinery in New Zealand offers a range of glazing options designed to enhance energy efficiency, comfort, and security, catering to the country's diverse climates and building standards.
A key feature in modern uPVC windows is Low-E (low emissivity) glass, which has become a standard requirement for colder regions of New Zealand in new builds and consented renovations under the updated H1 energy efficiency provisions of the New Zealand Building Code. This glass features a microscopically thin, transparent coating that reflects infrared heat while allowing visible light to pass through. In winter, it reflects heat back into the room, reducing heating needs, while in summer, it reflects external heat away, helping to keep interiors cooler. This dual action contributes to year-round energy savings and improved indoor comfort.
Double glazing is another prevalent option, consisting of two panes of glass separated by a sealed space filled with air or inert gas, such as argon. This configuration significantly reduces heat transfer, minimizes condensation, and enhances sound insulation. It's particularly effective in New Zealand's moderate climates and is often a requirement for new constructions to meet building code standards.
For colder regions or those seeking superior thermal performance, triple glazing is available. This involves three panes of glass with insulating gas layers between them, offering enhanced insulation, better soundproofing, and increased resistance to condensation. While more expensive than double glazing, the energy-saving benefits can make it a worthwhile investment over time.
Argon gas, commonly used between panes in double or triple-glazed windows, serves as an effective insulator. By replacing air with argon, which has lower thermal conductivity, these windows help maintain a consistent indoor temperature and reduce the likelihood of condensation forming on the glass.
Beyond thermal performance, various glass options are available to meet specific needs. Laminated glass enhances security and reduces noise transmission, making it ideal for urban environments. Tinted glass can reduce glare and protect interiors from UV damage, while obscure or frosted glass options provide privacy without sacrificing natural light. These choices allow homeowners to tailor their uPVC joinery to their unique requirements, ensuring both functionality and aesthetic appeal.
In summary, uPVC joinery in New Zealand offers versatile glazing options that not only comply with building regulations but also enhance the comfort, energy efficiency, and security of homes across various climates.
Wide Range of Styles and Options
uPVC windows and doors come in various styles—casement, sliding, awning, tilt-and-turn, French doors, and more. Whether you’re building new or renovating, there are configurations to suit modern, classic, or heritage homes.
Customisable Design
Available in a range of colours, finishes, and profiles, uPVC joinery can be tailored to match your architectural style. From sleek minimalism to detailed timber-look finishes, uPVC offers versatile aesthetic solutions.
Trusted Global Brand – VEKA
We prefer to use profiles from VEKA, the global leader in uPVC window systems. With over 50 years of experience and operations in over 40 countries, VEKA profiles are known for their quality, durability, and performance. At the same time, we are also able to provide window and door joinery from any of the leading or specialist brands of joinery including European timber window and door joinery.
Designed for Historic and Character Homes
uPVC joinery is ideal for heritage renovations: replacing windows, particularly in character homes, requires confidence in a system that will complement the period features. Aluminium does not suit period properties and whilst the charm of timber is appreciated, the issues of warping, twisting due to moisture retention is there, not to mention the high maintenance and painting requirement. The uPVC profile has very similar proportions to timber. With the unique ‘insert’ installation technique, we can retain much of the hardwood surrounds of your window so that only the non-performing section of the window is replaced, preserving as much character as possible and providing a more cost-effective solution than a full window replacement.
Thoughtful Design Considerations to fit your home and lifestyle
Style: Frames and openings are chosen to enhance the architectural intent of your home.
Light: Glass coatings and tints are available to maximise natural light while reducing glare and UV damage.
Access: Doors can be customised for everyday needs, including laundry access, outdoor cooking area flow, and level entry for wheelchair users.
Airflow: Options like awning or casement windows support cross-ventilation and controlled airflow.
Views: Large fixed panels or sliding doors can maximise outlooks while preserving internal wall space.
When updating your windows, it's important to understand the difference between insert and full replacement windows. This guide explains both options to help you choose the best solution for your home.
Insert Windows
Insert windows involve fitting a new uPVC frame inside the existing timber window frame. This method keeps your home’s original character while modernising your windows with double glazing.
Benefits:
o Less invasive and quicker to install
o Retains the original timber look
o Improves thermal performance and noise reduction
o Lower installation cost than full replacements
How it works:
We remove the sashes and internal framing, keeping the external timber. A new uPVC insert frame is installed, double glazed, and sealed for efficiency. You can also:
o Adjust openings or change window layout
o Convert windows to doors or floor-to-ceiling glass
o Remove visual obstructions like transoms and mullions
Ideal for:
o Homes with solid timber frames in good condition
o Heritage homes where preserving character is important
Replacement Windows
Full replacement windows involve removing the entire existing window and frame and installing a new unit in its place. This is a complete upgrade of both appearance and performance.
Benefits:
o Full design flexibility and customisation
o Best performance in terms of insulation and noise reduction
o Suitable for any cladding type
o Long-term durability and low maintenance
How it works:
We take out the old timber or aluminium window and install new uPVC joinery, This method complies with NZ Building Code standards and often involves additional finishing like trims and painting on the inside and outside. At the same time you can also:
o Reconfigure openings
o Improve glass performance
o Remove unwanted framing for clearer views
Ideal for:
o Windows that are too damaged to retrofit
o Homeowners seeking a complete style overhaul
Summary:
Choose inserts if you want a cost-effective upgrade that preserves your home's character. Go for replacements if your windows are deteriorated or you want a complete transformation. Contact us for expert advice tailored to your home.
Low embodied energy: A standard 1.23m x 1.48m thermal broken aluminium awning window frame has an embodied energy of 1392.30 MJ. In comparison, a standard uPVC frame of the same size uses just 669.49 MJ, reducing energy consumption by about half.
Recyclable and Sustainable: uPVC window frames are also recyclable. For instance frame offcuts from the manufacturing process can be sent to Marley, where they are repurposed into uPVC plumbing products. This closed-loop approach contributes to a more sustainable building process.
With a long lifespan and full recyclability, uPVC is an environmentally conscious choice. It consistently outperforms alternative materials like aluminium in energy efficiency and carbon emissions. Recent eco-efficiency and Life Cycle Assessment (LCA) studies show that uPVC is at least equal to, and often better than, other materials in terms of total energy use and global warming potential. The raw materials used in uPVC—chlorine and ethylene—are by-products of other industrial processes. Chlorine comes from caustic soda production, using seawater and rock salt, while ethylene is a by-product of petroleum refining. As a result, uPVC production is not directly dependent on crude oil, making it a more resource-efficient and sustainable option.
Warranty durations for uPVC joinery vary among suppliers depending on the component and manufacturer. We only install Window and door joinery from manufacturers who stand behind their product and offer the following minimum warranty durations:
A15-year warranty on uPVC profiles, a 10-year warranty on double and triple glazing units, a 5-year warranty on hardware, and a 2-year workmanship and third-party product warranty.
Replacing the windows in your home will deliver amazing benefits and life-long advantages for the homeowner. We often get asked how much does it cost?
It’s good to start with asking what some of factors that influence the cost of replacement windows are. Asking this question helps to understand what influences pricing.
Obviously, there is the material cost of new windows, but you also need to factor in the labour and materials required for removal and installation. Installation can often be overlooked, but it is most important to get this right to ensure your house is weather-proof and you won't have failures down the track. Then there is:
- The size of existing windows
- The chosen configurations of windows and doors
- Replacement window method, e.g. insert or full replacement
- The existing cladding type
- And the number of items
Installation cost:
While installation is necessary and an unavoidable cost, it’s essential your new windows are installed correctly. Incorrect installation will lead to thermal bridging, condensation, heat escaping and reduced energy efficiency. Even if you have invested in high-performance windows, incorrect installation means you won’t achieve the thermal performance you have paid for.
For example, for new-builds, thermally broken aluminium windows must be installed recessed into the wall, if they are not, the line of thermal barrier between the wall and window is not connected, allowing heat to escape. This means despite the windows having a higher R-Value rating, incorrect installation will prevent you from reaching the advertised performance.
Recessed installation doesn’t require any extra installation effort, but it does require an installer who understands the method and its importance, outdated methods, such as windows hanging over the cladding, are still unfortunately commonly used.
Professional installation typically represents 20-30% of the total project cost but is crucial for ensuring proper performance and warranty protection.
Installation factors that have to be considered include:
- Difficult access requiring scaffolding: $500-$2,000 additional
- Structural modifications needed: $200-$800 per window
- Heritage property considerations: 20-40% premium
- Removal and disposal of existing windows: $50-$150 per window
- Weather sealing and finishing work: $100-$300 per window
Remember, uPVC windows offer exceptional value for money—delivering superior thermal efficiency, long-term durability, and low maintenance at a highly competitive price.
In our experience, when you weigh the performance benefits against the cost, uPVC window and door joinery clearly delivers unbeatable value—premium thermal performance and long-term savings at a lower cost than other options.
The most accurate determination of cost will be our free estimate. As we are not tied to one manufacturer or brand our estimate can even include a price comparison of different uPVC brands and configurations.
The cost of double glazing systems in New Zealand varies significantly based on window size, frame material, glass specifications, and installation method. Here’s a breakdown of current double glazed windows NZ cost ranges for 2025: