The uPVC Windows Alliance, an initiative of the Vinyl Council of Australia is organising a technical seminar series on the unique challenges associated with choosing energy efficient building materials and specifically window profiles to suit the Australian climate.

Presented by the uPVC Windows Alliance in Sydney 12 August and Melbourne 13 August, the seminar will reference the European uPVC windows market to explore how window profile quality can be certified locally to stand up to Australia’s climatic conditions.

International guest speaker Mr Bernhard Elias, who is responsible for quality and certification under the German RAL window certification system, will be joined by Chief Executive of the Vinyl Council of Australia, Ms Sophi MacMillan at the free technical seminars. Mr Elias will discuss quality certification in Europe, and environmental product declarations for uPVC windows.

The seminar series aims to equip specifiers, architects, designers and homeowners with information on uPVC windows and how the high performance windows can help to create more energy efficient homes.

According to Ms MacMillan, Europe has been using energy efficient windows for comfort and cost savings with uPVC window frames featuring double or triple glazing being the most popular choice in the region. Australia, on the other hand has traditionally used timber frames, which require high maintenance, or aluminium window frames, which require less maintenance but are poor thermal insulators.

She added that Mr Elias’ presentation will be invaluable as the Australian industry is continually striving to create more energy efficient buildings.

The free technical seminar will be held in Sydney on Tuesday 12 August 10am – 12pm at Park Royal Parramatta. The Melbourne seminar will be held on Wednesday 13 August 8:30am – 10:30am at the Bell City Preston.