Poor insulator: Aluminum doesn't hold in heat as well as other materials. However, weather-stripping and thermal treatment can make this less of an issue. Condensation: Moisture or even frost can form inside aluminum-frame windows, leading to problems.
Lifespan - Aluminum windows are built to last and have a longer lifespan than vinyl windows. If properly cared for and maintained, you can get anywhere from 40-50 years from your windows. They are built strong and are incredibly durable.
Vinyl windows are easier to install. They're also lower cost and require less maintenance than aluminum windows. Additionally, vinyl windows are energy-efficient and offer a more substantial range of aesthetic and design options.
Even more impressive, unlike steel, the strength of aluminium increases the colder it gets, whereas steel becomes brittle at low temperatures (below 0oC). This means that aluminium windows, doors and curtain walling can more than cope with the most extreme winter temperatures in the UK.
Aluminium windows have can last up to 30 years. This is because, aluminium is considerably more resistant to the outside elements compared to other frames, making them less likely to warp or rot as a result. Aluminium also has a high strength-to-weight ratio, making them harder to dent.
Overall Strength Compared to Steel
While being praised for its malleable qualities, this particular property of aluminium can also act as a disadvantage. It can be more easily dented and scratched in comparison to steel. Steel is strong and less likely to warp, deform or bend under any weight, force or heat.
In general, aluminium windows are cheaper than timber windows. However, better quality, thermally insulated aluminium windows are closer in cost to timber windows. Aluminium windows are maintenance free, but do corrode over time.
Aluminium does not rust, it corrodes
If you've been considering windows and doors made from aluminium for your home, you may be pleased to find out that aluminium is indeed resistant to rust, due to its specific chemical composition.
Aluminium windows are among the best-rated with regards to security from external attacks. Unlike some uPVC windows, aluminium window frames will not crack if hit with a sharp object and they can't be cut or sawn like wooden frames can. However, there is more to window security than just the frame.
Vinyl windows are less expensive than aluminum.
Industry estimates vary, but vinyl windows generally cost 30 percent less than comparable aluminum windows.
A plastic insulation film is a large sheet of plastic film with double-sided adhesive tape. Stick the adhesive tape around the aluminum window and mount the film on the adhesive tape to completely cover the surface of the aluminum frame. The plastic insulating film will block every access to the window.
Many window design professionals agree that new, quality windows should last between 15 and 20 years before you start to think about replacing them. Most companies producing vinyl windows often provide a 20-25 year warranty, which is essentially a lifetime warranty – the expected lifetime of the product.
Yes. If your windows are more than 20 years old it is probably time to start thinking about replacing the lot. Many professionals agree that if homeowners can afford it, they are better served by replacing all their windows in one order. The installation team can complete the full job in a couple of days.
Aluminium frames do not rust like other metals; however they do corrode. The part of the aluminium that corrodes is known as aluminium oxide, which is a chemical compound of both aluminium and oxygen. The aluminium oxide is a strong material that protects the rest of the aluminium from further corrosion.
What Does Aluminum Corrosion Look Like? Rather than flaking through like rust, aluminum oxide just forms a hard, whitish-colored surface skin.
Window frames complement the beauty of your home, don't they? There is, however, always a huge chance that these window frames can end up with rust over a period. This is especially the case when window frames encounter conditions like rain and heavy winds.
In construction, capping or window capping (window cladding, window wrapping) refers to the application of aluminum or vinyl sheeting cut and formed with a brake to fit over the exterior, wood trim of a building.
Casement windows are considered better than double-hung windows at keeping out drafts since the window seal is generally quite tight. Casement windows are good when you want to "scoop" cooling outside air into the house.
Windows made with uPVC are generally better thermal insulators than aluminium. uPVC is a lightweight material, which makes uPVC double or triple glazed windows quick and easy to install. uPVC can last up to 20 years in great condition, meaning your investment will be one that lasts.
Verdict: when looking at uPVC vs aluminium windows for durability, both are weather-resistant and durable. Aluminium can last up to 50 years, whereas uPVC will last up to 30 years.
UPVC can warp little when used in larger frames or sliding doors making opening and closing more difficult. Aluminium windows, on the other hand, are very durable and are expected to last between 30 and 35 years depending on the spec.