Aluminium Windows vs Wood & uPVC

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December 16, 2016

What’s the difference between aluminium windows vs wood & uPVC?

If you are building a new home or renovating an existing property, you will no doubt be checking the windows for consistency, security and durability. Many existing UK homes have substandard windows that lack insulation values. In fact, the right windows can add value to your property, help reduce your energy consumption and give the residence an consistent aesthetic appeal.

Today, there are three main choices when it comes to selecting windows. But what’s the difference between aluminium, wood & uPVC windows as these most common types of window? Years ago, wooden windows dominated the marketplace but were gradually replaced by vinyl and aluminium windows.

Vinyl windows have been the most popular for many years, but new strides and technology by aluminium window manufacturers have brought ‘new-age’ aluminium windows to the forefront of the industry. The transformation is based on several factors.

The strength-to-weight ratio of aluminium allows the material to be shaped in many different configurations with amazing precision. If you compare the corners on a vinyl window with the corners on an aluminium fabricated window, you will see the precise craftsmanship that goes into making an aluminium window. Perfect mitre cuts and the smooth joints make the windows look sharp and enhance the exterior appeal.

Practical Benefits of Aluminium Windows vs wood & uPVC

The hard surface provided by aluminium is impervious to denting and weathering
Aesthetically pleasing
Easy to maintain
Increases the home’s level of security
Meets the highest standard for air and water infiltration and structural integrity
Aluminium can be fabricated to meet many architectural specifications that plastic windows cannot match.
Traditional aluminium window frames have become the primary choice for light or heavy commercial buildings such as schools, restaurants, and government buildings.

The biggest factor in the evolution of new-age aluminium doors and windows has been the introduction of polyamide technology. This technology has allowed manufacturers to improve windows with thermal insulation, added strength and has even presented the opportunity to allow different colours on the outside and inside of the window. Many homeowners are taking advantage of this unique design capability.

Aesthetics

The biggest advantage of aluminium over PVC windows is aesthetic appeal. Aluminium windows are lightweight, sturdy and durable but uncommonly thin and sleek. The windows provide light lines to the exterior, and new manufacturing processes now allow consumers to choose the insulation value.

Aluminium windows are flexible. Their sleek appearance works well with contemporary buildings while their strength works well with commercial properties. Aluminium is dominating new construction for residential and commercial properties.

When consumers compare the plastic wood grain window to an aluminium window, the consumer will note the difference in the profiled transom and the finish on a similar aluminium window. These differences are even more noticeable when comparing vinyl doors and aluminium doors.

Aluminium windows are available in all the traditional casements. Consumers can choose double-hung, slider or something more elaborate.

A Brief Comparison between aluminium vs wood & uPVC

Vinyl or polyvinyl chloride plastic (PVC)

Without question, vinyl windows loom large in the marketplace. However, discerning buyers are tending to go with aluminium windows and doors. If vinyl windows and doors have an advantage over aluminium, it is cost.

Vinyl doors and windows cost less to manufacture, but on the downside, in addition to the structural differences, vinyl windows look and feel heavier. They can make the exterior of the house look heavier. Furthermore, vinyl windows are no available in as many colours as are aluminium doors and windows.

Wood Windows

Wood windows are still popular. They are either standard, all wood or clad, which have an aluminium external shell of aluminium or fibre glass. These coverings protect the wood elements from weathering and are sold as low-maintenance window solutions.

Wood clad windows are difficult to repair and do not hold up to weather or the test of time as well as aluminium windows. The clad may need to get repainted but once you choose a colour, you will live with it forever. Standard wood and wood clad windows are expensive, more so than aluminium or vinyl.