Aluminium vs Timber vs uPVC Frames for Casement Windows

2024,12,31

The most popular contemporary metal frames are made from aluminium and sometimes steel, though most homeowners with older steel frames replace them with aluminium frames. Aluminium offers the same metal aesthetic as steel, with the same benefits at a lower price. Iron is not commonly used, however, it can be made bespoke for period properties at a considerable price.

Best for: • Homeowners who want a better aesthetic than uPVC can offer. • Those who are prepared to spend a little extra. • Those who want maintenance-free, durable frames and the very best engineering. • Those who want windows that can add value to the property. Benefits of aluminium and steel: • The aesthetic finish tends to be much more appealing. Metal can look sophisticated in both contemporary and period properties, unlike uPVC. • Have a life expectancy of approximately 45 years. • Great thermal efficiency on higher quality aluminium windows. • Low maintenance. Steel vs aluminium: the main differences • Cost – steel is considerably more expensive than aluminium. • Thermal efficiency – modern steel windows will meet current requirements, but aluminium frames offer a wider range of thermal efficiency options available in A++ grades. • Rust – modern steel frames will come with rust protection, but aluminium doesn’t rust, meaning there is no risk involved. • Weight – steel is a lot heavier than aluminium. The aluminium frames Origin use are 67% lighter than standard steel frames. • Aesthetics and style – the finish of aluminium looks just as good as steel, meaning both can fit contemporary styles or the style of older period properties (such as traditional Tudor styles from the 1930s).

High-quality aluminium easily rivals steel Steel outperforms aluminium in certain areas, but only if you install low-quality aluminium. Steel is stronger than aluminium, but the high-quality aluminium Origin offer is exceptionally strong – more than strong enough for a window frame. The problem with steel is that it’s a lot heavier – so you get more strength, but a lot of it isn’t needed – and that much heavier load makes the windows harder to operate. This is why aluminium is very popular; though it is technically less strong, it is arguably a more suitable material for the function of a window frame. Aluminium is also available in a wide range of sophisticated finishes so homeowners no longer have to pick steel to achieve their desired style. With the right finish, aluminium can look exactly like steel.

Author:

Ms. Rebecca Lee

E-mail:

sale01@wddoorwins.com

Phone/WhatsApp:

+86 13502225784