Introduction
When the questions are raised to select perfect windows, people usually get confused between two popular materials. One is UPVC and the other is aluminium. This is because both materials provide benefits according to their quality and ability. In this blog we will differentiate UPVC vs Aluminium windows. It will help you in selecting the right material.
Windows play a vital role in decoration and usage. Also windows are useful in energy efficiency, security and cost effectiveness. UPVC and Aluminum both are amazing materials when it comes to windows. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Table of contents
Aluminium windows
When it comes to improving or establishing new windows, Aluminium comes as an advanced and long run choice.
Benefits of Aluminium
Aluminium has various benefits which makes them a widely considered option for windows. Have a look below:-
Durability and strength:-
Aluminium windows are durable and strong. Aluminium is not easy to corrode. They are resistant to harsh weather. This quality and benefit make it a good choice for most homeowners and buildings. Aluminium doors are good options for homes in any climate. The strong base of aluminium enables for thinner frames and larger panes of glass. It gives a nice outside view at home.
Low maintenance:-
The amazing quality of aluminium doors is their low maintenance. Unlike wood frames often need painting. Aluminium materials do not require as much regular maintenance as wood requires.
Energy Efficiency:-
Advanced aluminium windows are designed and developed with an energy efficient system. Various windows systems contain thermal breaks. It is a barrier between the interior and exterior of a window frame. This system helps to stop heat transfer. This system helps to keep home cool during summer and warm during winters.
Decoration:-
Aluminium windows are also known for their smooth and modern appearance The thin profiles and clean lines match advanced architectural style. It provides a simple attraction that improves the overall appearance of your home. Moreover, aluminium frames are present in various colors. It enables you to change the look of your home as you want.
Environmental benefits:-
Aluminium is a recyclable material that can be recycled without losing its properties. Selecting aluminium windows takes part in environmental conservation as they reduce greenhouse effect. The procedure of recycling needs only 5% of energy used to reproduce aluminium.
Security:-
Security is an important notice for any home. Whether you are constructing a home or upgrading it. Security needs the most attention. Aluminium windows give strong security due to their strong design. The strength of material enables the combination of modern locking systems.
Disadvantages of Aluminium windows
Aluminium material is a good choice for windows. It has several advantages. Similarly, it has some disadvantages. Its limitations are as follow:-
Thermal conductivity:-
Aluminium is an excellent conductor of heat. Without proper thermal break aluminium windows will not be energy efficient. This will increase heat in homes especially in summers and cold in winters. Although thermal breaks enhance insulation, they might not be as effective as UPVC windows.
Condensation:-
Another disadvantage of aluminium doors is that they can damage due to condensation especially in cold weather. When moist air in the home interacts with the cold surface of an aluminium frame, condensation occurs. This condensation results in growth of mold and damaged walls.
Corrosion:-
Naturally aluminium is corrode resistant. But still it can corrode specifically in coastal areas. Without proper maintenance such as cleaning, aluminium windows may corrode.
Noise insulation:-
Aluminium windows give less noise insulation as compared to upvc windows. This is a big disadvantage of aluminium windows especially for residents of urban areas.
Cost:-
Aluminium windows are not cost effective. Generally they are more expensive than other materials such as UPVC. Since they provide durability and aesthetics, they are expensive. Homeowners with tight budgets may face problems to afford.
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UPVC windows
Another popular and famous material for windows is unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (UPVC). In recent times, the trend of upvc windows has increased. It has become a popular choice for most homeowners and builders. UPVC windows have various benefits such as durability, low maintenance, security etc. Due to these qualities it gives tough competition to aluminium windows.
Benefits of UPVC
UPVC provides several advantages. For the benefits of UPVC windows consider below:-
Energy Efficiency:-
The amazing feature of UPVC windows is its energy efficiency. It means that they have excellent insulation properties. Unlike aluminium, UPVC is a poor conductor of heat and does not need any thermal lock to prevent heat transfer. This means it keeps the home warmer in winter and colder in summer without any thermal locks.
Durability and longevity:-
UPVC windows are amazingly durable and highly resistant. They do not rust, rot or corrode. This makes them the perfect option for homes, specifically areas with high humidity or salt air.
Low maintenance:-
Wooden frames often need maintenance. They often need painting and sealing. UPVC windows look maintenance free. A simple wipe with a wet cloth is enough maintenance for them.
Decoration:-
UPVC windows are available in several styles and colors. They can be customized in order to match the decoration of your home. There are numerous choices that fulfil your desired decoration.
Cost effectiveness:-
Normally UPVC windows are more effective than other types of windows such aluminium or wood. It is affordable and gives a long lifespan and needs low maintenance. They offer various benefits at a very affordable price.
Disadvantages of UPVC windows
Alongside the benefits, upvc has some limitations. The limitations of upvc are as follow:-
Non-biodegradable:-
UPVC materials are non-biodegradable. This means that they are not affected by microorganisms such as bacteria or fungi. Due to this these materials continue in the environment for a long time. This results in pollution and environmental problems.
Discolouration over time:-
Another disadvantage of UPVC materials is that they can lose their color with the passage of time. UPVC windows in highly polluted areas can be discoloured. Also direct contact with sunshine all the day also results in discolouration of windows.
Difficult repair process:-
The other disadvantage of upvc windows is that they cannot be repaired easily once they are damaged. Many homeowners love the idea of low maintenance but they do not want to replace the entire window if it’s damaged. UPVC windows are highly durable so the damage is very rare.
UPVC vs Aluminium windows: Table of comparison
Below is table of comparison between upvc vs aluminium windows:-
| Features | UPVC windows | Aluminium windows |
| Durability | Highly durable. Resistant to rot, rust and corrode. | Highly durable but may corrode if not treated well. |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance, simple wipe with wet cloth is enough. | Require maintenance to prevent corrosion. |
| Energy efficiency | Natural insulation. Prevents heat transfer. | Natural conductor of heat. It requires thermal breaks to prevent heat transfer. Efficiency is low from UPVC. |
| Aesthetics | Several styles and colors, bulkier frames | Smooth, advanced look. Thinner frames for larger glass areas. |
| Cost | Generally more affordable | Generally more expensive than UPVC |
| Environmental impact | Easy recycling process. | Highly recyclable. |
| Security | Strong with multi locking systems. | Strong. It has a modern locking mechanism. |
UPVC vs Aluminium windows: Which one to choose?
UPVC windows and aluminium windows both offer various benefits. The above comparison table between UPVC windows vs Aluminium windows clears that UPVC windows are slightly better. This is because of their durability, maintenance, energy efficiency and cost. In these four main aspects UPVC windows are better.
UPVC windows are better does not mean that aluminium windows are poor. They also give various benefits to people. This is just a comparison between two materials.
Choosing UPVC windows or Aluminium windows completely depends on the consumer’s choice. It depends on purchaser choice, budget, preference and priority. It also depends on purchaser needs and requirements.
Conclusion
As it is stated before, selecting upvc or aluminium totally depends on the purchaser’s choice. This blog is just a comparison between upvc vs aluminium windows on the basis of their qualities. It is just a comprehensive guide for readers to help them choose windows according to windows quality and purchasers requirements. This will definitely help the purchaser to purchase the best windows for his home.
FAQs:-
- What is the trend in double glazing in 2024?
In 2024, there are various choices for windows materials. The 3 most popular materials are UPVC, Aluminium and Timber. - What material is used for thermal break in aluminium windows?
Thermal breaks are made from large hard, low thermal conductive polyamide materials. - Can aluminium windows be powder-coated to match home decor?
Yes, aluminium windows can be powder-coated to improve the decoration and beauty of your home.
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