uPVC vs Aluminium Windows

It’s a longstanding debate as to which is better, and for homeowners it can be a tough decision to make when considering the installation of new windows. We’ll take a look at the pros and cons of both uPVC and aluminium windows to help you make the right choice for your property and budget.

Durability of uPVC vs aluminium windows

uPVC has been a popular choice for window frames since the 1980s.

It’s a very durable material and resistant to rot, which means it has a
long lifespan and requires very little maintenance. However, frames can degrade over the years and tend to require replacement after 20 to 30 years.

Aluminium is also a highly durable material, but high quality aluminium windows can last up to 45 years because they don’t degrade in the same way that uPVC can. Unlike other metals, aluminium will not rust, so you don’t have to worry about your window frames sustaining unsightly patches of rust in the future.

Energy efficiency of aluminium vs uPVC windows

One reason why aluminium has been deemed less favourable than uPVC in the past is due to its low thermal efficiency. Aluminium is a highly conductive material, which means heat can pass through it very easily. For a while, aluminium was therefore seen as a thermally inefficient choice for windows compared to uPVC.

However, technology has come a long way over the past couple of decades, and these days aluminium windows and doors feature innovative thermal breaks within the frames, which prevents too much heat from being conducted.

Ultimately, the level of thermal efficiency offered by both aluminium windows and uPVC windows is variable and comes down to the quality of materials and manufacturing processes used.

Aluminium double glazed windows can be just as energy efficient as uPVC windows; just be sure to check the WER (Window Energy Rating) on the brands you’re considering. Any newly installed windows by law must be at least C rated, but both aluminium and uPVC are capable of offering up to A++ ratings.

Security of uPVC and aluminium windows

Thanks to their durable nature, both aluminium and uPVC windows are pretty secure. The level of security a window provides tends to be based on the quality of the locks installed with it.

Aesthetic differences between aluminium and uPVC windows

One of the reasons for the surge in popularity of aluminium windows in recent years is they can be much slimmer than uPVC, which gives them a clean, minimal look that is very popular in modern homes.

The other benefit of slim window frames is that they improve sightlines from the window, so if your home looks out over a stunning view, you might just love this aspect of aluminium windows.

It’s also worth noting that despite their slim frames, aluminium is robust enough to house large panes of glass. This means that if you have a large aperture, you may not be required to divide it into multiple panes, which means better views and more natural light being able to enter your home.

Aluminium windows attributes:

• Slim sleek style
• Minimalist
• Improved sightlines
• More natural light

uPVC windows have a bit of a reputation for being bulky and unsightly, and the plastic look is not particularly appealing for homeowners who want something a little more unique for their property.

White uPVC tends to be relatively cheap which is why it is the most common colour seen in UK properties, but there are other colours available if you do want to opt for something more out of the ordinary. You can also get wood effect uPVC window frames.

uPVCwindows attributes:

• Various colours and finishes

• Plastic appearance

• Good value

Aluminium also offers lots of variety in regard to finish. Most aluminium windows are finished with a powder coating, which enhances their durability and their stylish appearance.

This powder coating is available in a huge range of colours. We offer 180 RAL colours.

Many aluminium windows can also feature different finishes on the inside and outside of the frame, which allows you to customise the look of the windows to complement your home’s exterior while coordinating with the individual décor of each room.

uPVC windows vs aluminium windows price points

Aluminium windows do tend to be more expensive than uPVC due to a higher cost of materials and manufacturing. However, when you consider that aluminium is less likely to degrade than uPVC, it can be a more cost-effective solution in the long run.

Furthermore, since aluminium windows offer a sleek, contemporary style, they can add a little more value to a property than uPVC which can make them a worthwhile investment.

So, how much do aluminium windows cost? This is a tough question to answer because there are so many variables involved, such as:

• Size of the aperture

• Number of panes in the window

• Glazing (double or triple)

• Locking mechanisms

• Colours and finishes

• Quality of aluminium used (prime aluminium billets or scrap aluminium)

It’s worth noting that aluminium windows are gradually becoming more and more affordable due to their surge in popularity. When manufacturers increase the production of their windows they can usually cut costs, and over the years these savings have trickled down to the consumer.
If you like the appeal of aluminium windows but aren’t sure if they will fit your budget, contact us and get a quote.
You may be surprised at how affordable they can be.
When considering uPVC vs aluminium price points, try to compare like for like where possible. Take into account glazing, frame colour, handles, locks, and accessories, because all of these factor into the overall cost of your windows.
Figure out how important each factor is to you and go from there. For example, you may opt for cheaper uPVC frames and select pricier, more secure locks. Alternatively, if style is very important, you could choose to spend more on aluminium frames and opt for double rather than triple glazing to make the windows more affordable.

Should you choose aluminium or uPVC?

Aluminium vs uPVC is a not a cut and dried contest – it all comes down to your personal preferences, your budget, and the factors that are important to you. Every homeowner is different and it’s not as simple as saying one is better than the other.
Aluminium windows have come on leaps and bounds over the past 10 years in terms of affordability, durability, and thermal efficiency, and we expect them to only continue to grow in popularity. However, there will always be a place in the market for uPVC thanks to its affordability.

If you’re still struggling to decide whether you want uPVC or aluminium windows, why not go ahead and get quotes for both? By talking to us we can discuss which is most suitable for your property and your needs.

You can view all the windows that Brighter Choice have to offer all here.