Aluminum windows have an average lifespan of about 20 to 25 years. The problem with aluminum is that it's prone to damage. If you're in an area that's prone to intense weather like hurricanes or hailstorms, your aluminum windows may have to be replaced more often than the average.
Clad window lifespan
The warranty on clad window parts can range from 20 years to as long as you own the home. Aluminum is pretty bulletproof so unless the vinyl cracks in cold weather or distorts in hot, these windows can last for decades.
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.
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.
But some double glazed windows are better than others, and triple glazed windows can be better still. Replacing old double glazed windows with new higher performance glazing will cut heat loss through your windows, making the room more comfortable and easier to heat. It can also cut your heating bills slightly.
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.
Aluminum is metal, and as we all know, metal is a great conductor of heat and cold. Older aluminum frame windows didn't have insulation. The frames are hot or cold to the touch.
Durability. 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.
The average lifespan of residential windows is 15 to 30 years. Well-maintained products may last beyond the 20-year mark, but once your windows start approaching two decades old, it's time to think about replacing them.
Your home's double-pane windows and their seals should last about 20-25 years. However, their lifespan greatly depends on the quality of the window manufacturing process and initial installation.
You know that can't be energy efficient. Save up to 40% off your energy bill with our C5 Texas windows. Finally, old aluminum glass doesn't have the energy efficient properties of today's vinyl windows. New glass absorbs the sun's heat with ease, blocking the UV rays from entering your home or even damaging the glass.
To prevent window sweating, you need to reduce the humidity percentage so that the dew point temperature is cooler than the surface temperature. There are several ways to accomplish this such as using a dehumidifier or keeping the heat consistent through your home.
Vinyl windows are less expensive than aluminum.
Industry estimates vary, but vinyl windows generally cost 30 percent less than comparable aluminum windows.
A thermal break is defined as a material with low thermal conductivity placed in an extrusion with the purpose of reducing the flow of thermal energy (heat). In aluminum windows, three types of thermal breaks are used. A standard pocket thermal break has been used in the window industry for decades.
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.
Windows are not meant to last forever. You could buy the best brand name windows in the world and they are still going to eventually break down and need to be replaced. The fact of the matter is that the basic rule of thumb with windows is 15 to 20-years.
First look for the ENERGY STAR label when buying new windows. Then review ratings on the energy performance label from the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) to find the most efficient windows for your needs.