Aluminum Windows vs UPVC By Shantal Silas

Before we get into the argument of which window is better, let me first define for you what Aluminum and UPVC windows actually are.

UPVC is the acronym for Un-plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride, which is a rigid and chemically resistant form of PVC. And Aluminum, as the name suggests, are windows made out of the silvery-white, soft, non-magnetic and ductile metal. When the development of UPVC windows was being materialized, local salesmen referred to it as “White Gold” because a vast majority of customers switched from Aluminum windows to UPVC windows, which in turn profited the manufacturers.
However, over time people have come to realize that both types have some good points as well as bad ones.

1. Strength and Durability

Durability is one of the main concerns when selecting windows, and in that context, both aluminium windows and the PVC doors and windows win, so it is up to the user’s personal preference. However, when it comes to strength aluminum tends to be stronger than UPVC. This means that aluminium windows can have a slimmer appearance and a larger glass surface area due to the strength of the frames. For this reason they’re very popular with commercial and public buildings like schools, offices and government buildings. This can be a good benefit for a residential home too if you’re looking for a particularly large design.

2. Heat and sound Insulation

UPVC being a bad conductor of heat is good for heat insulation thus reducing your air conditioning cost while aluminium being a metal is good conductor heat. UPVC is a naturally warm material and the multi-chambered frames of UPVC are great for insulation, helping you keep your bills down during the winter UPVC is also a better sound insulator as compared to aluminium; the reason is multi-chambered design and its corner are welded which is not possible with aluminium.

3. Size restriction

UPVC is a lightweight material, which makes UPVC double or triple glazed windows quick and easy to install. But the major drawback of UPVC is size limitations and choice colour finishes wise, whereas, in aluminium, you can go for any colour finishes and also can have big size windows. Aluminium technicians are available anywhere nearby while with UPVC customers have to depend on limited companies for repair and services. Aluminium after use or scrap value is at least 25% of original window value while UPV has no scrap value.

4. Cost and shelf-life

Aluminium windows and doors are expensive and PVC windows and doors are not as expensive. Thus the UPVC windows and doors are cost-effective. If the user is keen on keeping his budget in check, then he’ll definitely go for UPVC. They come in many colours. Also, just because the UPVC windows and doors are low cost does not mean it is low quality; very high-quality doors and windows are available in the budget if a user wishes to opt to select UPVC. Aluminium windows have a longer shelf life, it lasts for about sixty years and on the other hand, the life of UPVC and windows is around twenty-five to thirty years. Aluminium Windows and doors are durable but so are UPVC doors and windows, just that the life or rather warranty of the UPVC doors is twenty-five to thirty years.

5. Maintenance

UPVC windows require very less maintenance after installation, whereas aluminium windows require maintenance. UPVC windows can be made like new with just the wipe of a damp cloth. But aluminium windows can’t be treated as such, because while UPVC windows are rust proof, rot proof and can withstand any type of climate, Aluminum windows are prone to rust. However, the PVC loses to aluminium doors and windows when it comes to eco-friendliness. The aluminium doors and windows are ecofriendly and are also easily recyclable.