Slimline UPVC frames

Hoggle

We're in the process of extending / renovating our house and are looking to install replacement grey UPVC windows throughout. We've had several quotes from local companies, the most competitive being one for £5,892 to supply and install 13 grey-on-white Eurocell 70mm windows.

I've been provided with corner samples for various Eurocell frames (the Eurologik 70 profiles, plus the slim and flush rebate frames from Eurocell's modus range), but they all seem extremely bulky (even though the Modus range markets itself on being slimmer than average). They are definitely thicker/fatter than our existing UPVC frames - in fact almost twice as thick! We're trying to go for a look that's closer to aluminium but unfortunately we don't have the budget for the real thing.

Can anyone recommended UPVC frames with slimmer sightlines? I have heard that Rehau do a slimmer version, but having looked online, the Rehau ones look exactly the same as the Eurocell ones we've got. I also understand that Rehau are quite a bit more expensive than similar makes.

In addition, we'd ideally like the frames to be a smooth grey (again, to mimic the aluminium look) rather than the Eurocell ones which are woodgrain effect, but again, researching this online I can't seem to find any supplier which does frames with a smooth (non-woodgrain) finish.

Any help/suggestions much appreciated. Many thanks

Paragonvirtue

Upvc windows can be supplied painted with a sprayed Kolorbond paint finish, I have been spraying windows for over 20 years and it has a life expectancy in excess of 25 years, the paint bonds to the surface and does not chip, flake or blister but like all things it will scratch off but if this happens it can be touched up.
The slim frame is a little harder to find, most window systems are internally glazed for security reasons and to be able to fit the beads in and space for a handle it follows that the frames are a little bulkier, a good replacement for timber but not steel.