Yes, ThermaScreen uPVC Windows are tested and formulated to withstand the high UV exposure found in New Zealand.
All uPVC windows sold in NZ have to meet specific durability requirements to ensure that they surpass the expected lifetime. There requirements of how uPVC windows prove that they meet this durability requirement has evolved. Original requirements stated that any uPVC formulations meet the minimum concentration of titanium dioxide which acted as sunscreen. ThermaScreen uPVC windows and doors met or exceeded this requirement. However, this is not the only way to increase the UV resistance of uPVC.
The most accurate way to prove durability compliance is to test samples of uPVC under high UV exposure environments. The NZ window industry developed a standard for the testing of uPVC window and door frames based upon the VCA's (Vinyl Council of Australia) requirements. This requires high UV exposure to extruded profiles at either Allunga Exposure Laboratory's Townsville site, or the Natural Weathering Testing Site in Arizona. All of our uPVC profiles exceeded these requirements after being tested at the site in Arizona. In addition to providing high UV exposures, this site also exposes the materials to scorching 46+ °C temperatures as well as freezing temperatures.
In addition, our windows exceeded the test of time by being installed throughout the US states, including states that have up to 50% more UV exposure than New Zealand.
Looking for more information on how the UV exposure compares to other areas on Earth, follow the links below. Hint - we are about middle of the pack with the highest UV exposure being in Chile with nearly 300% the UV exposure of NZ, and is backed up by scientific evidence.