Need advice? Call our order support line: 01706 260700
Change sector:
Trade
Commercial
uPVC or Aluminium Windows – Which Is Best?
Introduction
If you’re looking to install new windows, you may wonder which type of material to use: uPVC or aluminium? Here at AluFold, we’re admittedly a little biased, but we firmly believe that aluminium is the superior choice.
That being said, modern uPVC windows can be of an extremely high standard and make a worthy runner-up. So, with that in mind, let’s take a closer look at uPVC and aluminium. Which one’s best? We’d have to say the latter, and here’s why.
Thermal Efficiency
Aluminium tends to be colder when touched, so people sometimes assume it’s not as energy efficient as uPVC. This is not the case. The two materials provide exceptional heat retention levels and achieve similar U-values. If you want your house to remain cooler in the summer and warmer in winter, uPVC and aluminium are both excellent choices. When it comes to thermal efficiency, there’s no clear winner.
Durability
Aluminium is an incredibly strong type of metal. It can resist unwanted intruders and severe weather alike, and is less prone to damage. It has a longer lifespan as well, so when it comes to durability, aluminium has the edge. uPVC is also tough but not as inherently long-lasting as aluminium is. It’s also more prone to discolouration, and while this won’t affect the window’s performance, it can be unsightly. If you consider UPVC vs aluminium in terms of durability, aluminium has a clear advantange.
Maintenance
This is another area where there’s no clear winner. Both uPVC and aluminium windows are relatively easy to maintain. They can be cleaned with no more than a sponge and a bucket of warm soapy water (use a squeegee if you want to avoid streaks), while over-the-counter lubricants can be used on the locks and mechanisms. Just avoid using WD-40 on the locks, as it can cause them to grind and wear down.
Price
The cost is the one area where uPVC has the advantage. Aluminium is a higher-quality material so it tends to be more expensive, and if you’re working with a tight budget, uPVC windows might be your preferred option. That being said, aluminium has a longer shelf life, so while that initial bill might be higher, you’ll potentially get years more use from an aluminium window.
uPVC Versus Aluminium: The Verdict
As we mentioned in the introduction, we are convinced that aluminium windows are superior to uPVC ones. Neither material is a bad choice, and uPVC is still a worthy investment, but due to their higher lifespans and reliability, we think aluminium windows are the best option. So if you're wondering whether to install UPVC or aluminium windows, we hope this has helped you reach a decision.
If you’re interested in finding out more, you can email us at info@alufolddirect.co.uk and one of our expert staff will be happy to speak with you. Alternatively, if you’d like to get started on your own aluminium windows project, you can request a free online quote today. We can’t wait to hear from you.
Aluminium windows, doors and rooflights in any colour, delivered direct to site fast.