The uPVC Window and Doors Manufacturers Association (UWDMA) has recently drafted a set of quality guidelines to create benchmark of technical specifications of uPVC Windows and Doors. The new guidelines have been set in order to give consumers a better understanding of the options available and help them make the best choice. The guidelines are listed on www.uwdmaindia.org. Currently, the windows and doors profiles in India are dominated by aluminum and wood. World over, uPVC profile is the default choice. They not only provide greater durability, but also offer stunning looks and ultimate energy-efficiency by entirely keeping out noise, dust, heat or cold. uPVC windows also are more cost effective than aluminum and wood. In the last few years, more and more projects in India have upgraded to uPVC windows and doors profiles and have become the fastest growing segment in the industry. The draft will be shared among all stakeholders, directly and indirectly involved in the line of business, across India. Some of the key points covered under the new guidelines will address all aspects of a given uPVC window and door profile. This includes Profiles Quality parameters, hardware tested for functionality, strength, operation and smoothness, usage of galvanised steel, processed glass only as per standards set by Federation of Safety Glass, Quality System Procedure or Quality documents to be verified of the manufacturer and installation. “Lately, we have started witnessing some players, especially from the unorganized segment, compromise on the quality and safety to achieve better sales. It is our endeavour to protect the consumers’ interest by providing them with adequate information via setting down Quality guidelines that’ll help them make an informed decision,” says Rajesh Chawla, Vice President, UWDMA. UWDMA through Bureau of Indian Standards is also working on a standard for the Indian market based on the EN 12608 with certain parameters adapted to suit the Indian climatic conditions and test ability. The profiles, besides being required to conform to EN 12608:2003 are also required that their class be specified by the manufacturer clearly printed on the profile so that the customer can identify the brand or original manufacturer and the standard followed. “uPVC as a material is not only used in window and door applications but also in piping, water storage, roofing membranes, electrical insulation among others. However, when it comes to the windows and doors industry because of non-adherence in standardisation here unlike in the western countries, uPVC products may lose sheen. Since the uPVC windows and doors market is expected to grow in the years to come, we want to build a strong foundation so that the market does not get infiltrated with sub-standard products. If we cut corners at this juncture the windows and doors market may end up like the unorganised aluminium or wood products. The new benchmarks have been created with the objective of streamlining the industry and instilling trust in the minds of consumers. We are also aggressively driving membership in the association so that more and more stakeholders become part and voice of the booming uPVC windows and doors industry,” concludes Chawla.