uPVC vs aluminium – what you need to know

uPVC and Aluminium are two windows that have gotten a bad rap in the past. But technological advances mean these two materials are now leading the charge if you’re looking for attractive, low-maintenance windows and doors to improve your home’s energy efficiency. Here are some differences to consider to help you decide which is the most suitable for your home.

Budget

uPVC windows and doors are more cost-effective than Aluminium windows and doors. But just because uPVC is a less expensive material doesn’t mean it is an inferior choice. Your budget and style preferences will have a lot to do with the material you choose. Aluminium windows are more robust and offer greater flexibility for larger more structural designs. It’s worth budgeting carefully if this is the look you desire. One way to manage cost is to consider mixing uPVC and Aluminium windows and doors in your home.

If you are extending your home, purchasing new windows for the entire house can be costly. Mixing uPVC and aluminium windows is something that people do to achieve the look you want without blowing their budget. uPVC windows are often a good option when replacing the existing windows in a home. In contrast, Aluminium offers more options to create something special in the new areas or extensions. Aluminium windows come in a wide range of colours, so it’s often possible to match the colour with your chosen uPVC windows.

Durability

If you are looking for windows that are low maintenance, both Aluminium and uPVC windows and doors are a great choice. uPVC and Aluminium are both weather-resistant and durable materials. Both of these types of windows will require minimum maintenance over their lifespan.

Energy efficiency

Aluminium windows have come on dramatically since the 1970s versions. Unlike their single-glazed predecessors, the modern versions perform very well thermally, making them energy efficient.

Both aluminium and uPVC windows have similar insulating properties. How energy-efficient they are will depend on the specification you choose. Always ask your window supplier about the energy rating the window provides and go with the best option your budget allows. You’ll have the lowest energy bills possible this way.

Aesthetics

Windows play a big part aesthetically when renovating. Everything from style, material and colour will dramatically impact your home’s appearance. Aluminium offers very slender frames and large sizes of glazing panels, which are suited to more contemporary designs such as floor-to-ceiling sliding doors.

Aluminium windows can be customised to suit your exact requirements. There are sliding systems, top, side and bottom-hinged windows, and bi-folding options, making them a very versatile choice.