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Are aluminium doors cheaper than uPVC?

uPVC vs Aluminium: Pricing Due to manufacturing costs, as well as the type of material it is, installing a window made from aluminium is usually a lot more expensive than installing one made from uPVC.

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The debate surrounding uPVC vs aluminium windows has been going on for a very long time, and coming to a conclusive resolution to the debate is not as simple as you might think. Both materials have a lot of pros and cons, and depending on your property situation, the line between them might be incredibly thin. For homeowners, this can be one of many difficult decisions to make. However, we want to make this process easier for you by breaking down the key advantages and disadvantages of each type of window, so you can make up your own mind and decide what’s best for you.

uPVC vs Aluminium: Aesthetics

The style of your property will have a much bigger impact on the windows you choose than you’ll initially have expected. Depending on when your property was built, the area in which it was constructed, or even the value of your property; whatever windows you eventually decide to go with will have to reflect the style you want to go with. If your property has a more contemporary feel to it, perhaps choosing aluminium windows over uPVC windows might be a wise decision, as it’s bound to give your property a chic and elegant edge. However, for many listed buildings or buildings that are situated in a conservation area, uPVC windows are the best route. The best way to go about deciding what windows are right for you is to really consider the surroundings of your build, and what style would best compliment the location of your property. Making sure that the windows offer a lot of natural light into your property, and checking that the windows and doors suit your home is vital when it comes to making your final decisions. As well as this, make sure that whatever windows you’re considering installing look exactly how you want them to, both from the outside and the inside. It is also important to remember that both aluminium and uPVC window frames are available in a range of colours, meaning that you have an extra level of customizability when it comes to creating the space you really want. Ensure that you choose the window style that best suits your property. Verdict: when looking at uPVC vs aluminium windows for aesthetics, take into consideration the characteristics of your house!

uPVC vs Aluminium: Pricing

Due to manufacturing costs, as well as the type of material it is, installing a window made from aluminium is usually a lot more expensive than installing one made from uPVC. However, with aluminium being a much more withstanding and durable material, more often than not it actually proves more cost-effective to opt for aluminium windows, as they won’t need to be replaced as much as uPVC. If you’re looking for windows that you effectively want to install and then forget about, investing in uPVC windows would definitely be a step in the right direction for you. Not only are they usually more affordable than aluminium windows, but they also have a surprisingly long lifespan. Combined with their high resistance to rot, uPVC windows are perfect for those who are looking to install windows in a medium-sized property. Opting for different window types and styles could potentially save you a lot of money. For example, if you were to opt for a typical casement aluminium window, you’d be potentially looking at spending a minimum average of £500. However, a typical uPVC window would cost you significantly less, with the average price starting at £200. Keep in mind that the amount of money your windows cost will fluctuate over time and depending on a variety of factors.

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Verdict: uPVC vs aluminium windows for the price, uPVC is cheaper but aluminium is much more durable.

uPVC vs Aluminium: Maintenance

When it comes to the maintenance of both uPVC windows and aluminium windows, there’s honestly not a lot in it: both materials are sturdy and durable, neither have a tendency to rot or warp, and both materials require a very low level of overall maintenance. Both are also incredibly easy to clean and take care of when needed, and as long as you’ve got a cloth and a bucket of warm soapy water, you’ve got everything you need. You will not need to replace your windows for a long time. Verdict: when looking at uPVC vs aluminium windows for maintenance, both are very easy to care for!

uPVC vs Aluminium: Energy Efficiency

For many years, uPVC has been considered a fantastic material to use for insulation purposes, and many uPVC windows have an incredibly high level of thermal efficiency. For a similar amount of time, however, it’s been rumoured that aluminium windows just can’t provide as much insulation as uPVC windows can, or that opting for double or triple glazing is the only way to go. This rumour has recently been disproved, as although the frames still feel frosty, the heat retention is just as good. In recent years, technology has advanced so far that the days where aluminium windows might not have been as energy efficient as uPVC ones are officially long behind us. Due to aluminium being a highly conductive material, traditionally it’s easier for heat to pass through. However, various modern manufacturers tend to use a material called Aerogel in their frames (especially in new builds) in order to offer a higher level of insulation. Aerogel has been used to insulate space suits, as well as space shuttles, and creates a thermal break between the panes of glass. In short, both aluminium windows and uPVC windows have similar levels of insulation, so there really isn’t a lot of difference between the two. We recommend checking the window energy rating (WER) before making any purchases, no matter what brand, style or material you’re considering. This will guarantee you’ll be getting the lowest energy bills you can be. Verdict: when looking at uPVC vs aluminium windows for energy efficiency, when going with the right supplier, both can save you money on your energy bills!

uPVC vs Aluminium: Durability

Ever since the 1980s, uPVC has been an incredibly effective and popular choice for window frames. As mentioned previously, it’s a very physically strong substance and does a fantastic job at resisting rot over long periods of time. As well as this, uPVC frames require very little maintenance, which also adds massively to their appeal. Of course, like anything, after 30 years or so the frames do have a tendency to degrade and eventually need replacing. High-quality aluminium frames, however, have been known to last as long as 50 years and sometimes even more. What sets aluminium apart from other metals is the fact that it doesn’t rust, meaning that your frames won’t be damaged by it as the years pass. Aluminium frames do not degrade in the same way that uPVC frames do.

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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 vs Aluminium: Security

One of the key advantages of opting for uPVC windows over aluminium windows is the amount of sound from the outside world that they tend to block out. Although aluminium windows are still functional when it comes to soundproofing, uPVC ultimately blocks out a lot more noise, thus making your property a lot safer. As both materials are known for being durable and withstanding, whichever window you decide on is bound to be secure. Both uPVC windows and aluminium windows are going to be a lot stronger than timber windows, which are more susceptible to rotting and breakages over long periods of time. We also recommend investing in windows with high-quality locks installed, no matter what material of window you opt for in the end. As long as your locks are going to stand the test of time, and have modern locking mechanisms, then your windows and property have a higher chance of being secure for longer. Verdict: when looking at uPVC vs aluminium windows for security, both are safe and will protect your home from potential intruders!

uPVC vs Aluminium Conclusion

It’s safe to say that both uPVC and aluminium windows have their advantages and disadvantages, and it’s impossible to state that one is simply better than the other. When it comes to deciding on windows for your property, we recommend going for the windows that best align with your priorities and personal preferences. There are so many factors to consider, the debate as to which material is better will likely never reach a solid resolution. We recommend that if you’re still struggling to reach a decision regarding your choice of windows, you should get in touch with our friendly team at BJH today. You can request a quote, enquire about our business, or simply chat to one of our window experts about what we can do for you and your property. BJH Windows and Conservatories are based in Hampshire. We have a wealth of experience in fitting aluminium and uPVC windows. For more information on our services within your local area, visit one of the below web pages. Double Glazing Hampshire | Double Glazing Isle of Wight | Double Glazing Southampton | Double Glazing Portsmouth | Double Glazing Fareham | Double Glazing Waterlooville | Double Glazing Chichester | Conservatories Isle of Wight | Conservatories Portsmouth | Conservatories Southampton | Conservatories Hampshire | Conservatories Fareham | Conservatories Chichester | Conservatories West Sussex

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