While they’re both two very different materials, the debate of Aluminium vs uPVC is not as straightforward as you might think.

Both offer their own specific benefits, and each have different drawbacks.

If you’re unfamiliar with the materials and their properties, this can make the choice of the right window material a very difficult one.

So, to help you choose the best window for you and your property, the window experts at Abbey Glass have shared their insights into whether or not aluminium is better than uPVC, when it comes to windows and doors.

Benefits of Aluminium Windows & Doors

Aluminium is a remarkable material, with a huge variety of impressive properties. The main benefits of aluminium windows and doors are:

• Highly affordable – the price of aluminium frames has come down considerably over time. So much so, that they’re a highly affordable option, coming in at a cheaper price point than many other window frames.
• Low maintenance – wooden window frames, for example, require a lot of ongoing maintenance, to ensure that they don’t become damaged or deteriorate over time. In comparison, aluminium windows have an exceptionally long lifespan, even with just the minimum level of maintenance.
• Thermal efficiency – aluminium boasts an exceptional degree of thermal efficiency. This minimises the amount of heat lost from your home, thereby reducing your heating bills and saving you money.
• Design versatility – aluminium windows and doors can come in a huge variety of styles, colours and sizes. You can customise your frames however you like, without having to compromise on their performance.
• Durability – aluminium doors and windows have a lifespan of around 50 years. They’ll hold strong against both weather and the wear and tear of daily usage, making this an investment that will last you for many years to come.
• Style – aluminium frames are renowned for their sleek, modern design. Another big reason for their widespread popularity is the elegance and chic style that they bring to a property.
• Sustainability – aluminium is a highly sustainable metal. Not only is it non-toxic, but it is 100% recyclable. In fact, recycling aluminium requires only 5% of the energy that is needed to create it in the first place, which demonstrates how successfully your window can be recycled and reused, at the end of its lifespan.

However, one of the main downsides of using aluminium for your doors and windows is its higher price point. While it is still one of the more affordable options, it is more expensive than plastic frames. So, this can make some customers lean towards choosing uPVC windows and doors.

Another important point to make is that aluminium can be too modern for some properties. If you have a period property or a very traditional home in a rural location, you might find that aluminium frames look a little out of place.

Or maybe not! – if you browse the range of aluminium doors and windows that are out there, you might find a model that creates a stylish, artistic contrast with your traditional home.

Benefits of uPVC Windows & Doors

uPVC has been the go-to material for windows and doors for decades. Its popularity has remained consistently high throughout the decades, thanks to its durability, affordability and dependability.

The main benefits of uPVC windows and doors are:

• Low upfront cost – a typical casement aluminium window will cost you around £500. In comparison, for a uPVC window of the same style, the cost will sit at around £200. So, if you’re looking for a cheap starting cost (rather than a long term investment) uPVC windows are an ideal choice.
• Simple style – their muted, simple style makes uPVC doors and windows a great fit for period properties, as they can seamlessly blend into the property’s exterior.
• Low maintenance – again, uPVC frames only require the minimum level of maintenance. They are highly weather resistant, and can stand up to daily usage with ease.
• Easy to clean – like aluminium frames, uPVC can be cleaned with a simple wipe down. All you need is a sponge and a bucket of warm soapy water.
• High energy efficiency – aluminium windows and uPVC windows have a very similar level of insulation, and so they both have an equally high level of energy efficiency.

However, compared to aluminium frames, the main drawback of uPVC windows and doors is their reduced lifespan – uPVC will not last as long as aluminium.

So, although you are saving money in the short term, it’s highly likely that you’ll have to replace your uPVC windows and doors multiple times.

An aluminium window and door will last for decades longer than a uPVC alternative, meaning it is often more cost-effective in the long term to choose aluminium.

Are Aluminium Doors and Windows better than uPVC alternatives?

Aluminium frames, without a doubt, are the more high performance option. They are much more sustainable than uPVC frames, and boast a much longer lifespan.

But, that’s not to say that uPVC frames do not also perform well. These frames are still exceptionally durable and strong.

Neither uPVC nor aluminium will warp or rot over time, and they will both consistently perform to a very high standard, with the minimal level of maintenance.

In conclusion, I’d say that the main debate is one of cost. If you are looking for the lowest possible upfront cost, then a uPVC window and door is a great choice. However, if you want this new window or door to be a cost-effective long term investment, then aluminium is a brilliant material for the job.

If you’d like to find out more about the differences between uPVC and aluminium windows and doors, or to enlist the installation services of the Abbey Glass team, don’t hesitate to contact us today.