If you’ve been thinking about investing in new windows for your home, you might have heard aluminum and uPVC from different places. uPVC vs aluminum windows – it’s a longstanding debate as to which is better, and for homeowners, it can be a difficult decision to make when considering the installation of new windows.
When it comes to aluminum windows vs UPVC windows, both materials boast some great benefits. Obviously, these benefits will appeal to different types of homeowners, but the reality is there’s no ‘right’ answer about which one is best.
Ultimately, whether they’re the right choice for you and your home will depend on many different factors.
We will take a look at the pros and cons of both uPVC and aluminum windows in Antique Glass ltd to help you make the right choice for your property and budget.
The energy efficiency of uPVC vs aluminum windows
One reason why aluminum was less favorable than uPVC in the past was due to its low thermal efficiency. Aluminum is a highly conductive material. This means heat can pass through it very easily. So, aluminum was seen as a thermally inefficient choice for windows for a while.
However, technology has played its part in aluminum window improvement, and these days aluminum windows and doors feature innovative thermal breaks within the frames, which prevents too much heat from being conducted.
With aluminum windows, there’s a common misconception that they are not as well insulated as UPVC, but this is not true. The frames in aluminum may feel colder to touch, but the window panes can achieve exactly the same energy efficiency levels.
Ultimately, the level of thermal efficiency offered by both aluminum windows and uPVC windows is roughly the same and comes down to the quality of materials used in both windows.
The durability of uPVC vs aluminum windows
uPVC has been a popular choice for windows since 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.
Aluminum is also a highly durable material, but high-quality aluminum windows can last up to 45 years because they don’t degrade in the same way that uPVC can.
Security of uPVC vs aluminum windows
UPVC and aluminum windows feature reinforced frames and multi-point locks, making them as extremely secure as each other.
At Antique Glass, we can supply both windows styles with the Secured By Design seal of approval to minimize the risk of unwanted entry by using robust design practices.
But in general, both aluminum 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.
Soundproofing of uPVC vs aluminum windows
One of the main advantages of uPVC windows over aluminum is that they tend to offer slightly better soundproofing. This doesn’t mean that aluminum windows are bad at soundproofing, but uPVC does slightly better when it comes to blocking out exterior noise.
However, it must be mentioned that a great deal of soundproofing comes from the glazing itself, rather than just the frame. So if you opt for high-quality double glazing, your home should remain relatively quiet.
Price of uPVC vs aluminum windows
In terms of price, installing aluminum windows is always more costly than UPVC because of higher material and manufacturing costs. But, in the long term, aluminum might prove very cost-effective because it’s a more robust material than UPVC.
For a more affordable initial choice, UPVC windows offer a superb window solution because they’re highly resistant to rot with a long lifespan.
For a typical sized home, the price difference when comparing aluminum to uPVC would probably be thousands rather than hundreds of pounds.
maintenance for uPVC and aluminum windows
In terms of maintenance, there’s not much difference when it comes to aluminum windows vs UPVC. Neither material will warp or rot and they’re both easy to clean – only needing a quick wipe with a cloth every now and then.
Aesthetics of aluminum vs uPVC windows
One of the reasons for the increasing popularity of aluminum windows is the sleek style that they offer. Aluminum window frames 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 the view from the window, so if your home looks out over a stunning view, you might just love this aspect of aluminum windows.
Conclusion
Aluminum windows are slightly more expensive, but they last very long and are a good long-term investment. From a design point of view, they’re modern and stylish with sleek profiles. Probably best suited to modern homes.
UPVC windows on the other hand are affordable to install, UPVC window frames are super stylish and – thanks to advances in plastic technology – they now come in a variety of colors. Their subtle appearance is ideal for older properties and listed homes.
So we come down to this question: What’s best for you?
In reality, UPVC and aluminum both have similar benefits – particularly in terms of thermal efficiency, maintenance, and security. Aluminum windows are more costly but they look sleeker.
So it mostly depends on your needs, budget, and of course, your home design.
If you are looking for expert advice and would like to receive a free quote on uPVC windows in London, you can call us today.
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