Which Windows are Best?
At Spire Glass, we pride ourselves on being a top supplier and installer of windows and doors in Salisbury, Amesbury, and the surrounding areas catering to residents making home improvements in Wiltshire, Hampshire, and Dorset. The choice between Aluminium and uPVC windows depends on factors such as style, durability, energy efficiency and cost. uPVC windows are affordable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance but may not be as durable or as aesthetically pleasing as Aluminium. Both materials have a lot of pros, and depending on your property situation, it may come down to simple details to help you decide. In this article, we have tried to provide an overview to help you make a well-informed decision that best suits you and your property.
Why choose uPVC Windows?
uPVC windows are made from unplasticised polyvinyl chloride and are a popular alternative to traditional wooden windows due to their low maintenance, energy efficiency, and affordability.
uPVC windows are durable, weather-resistant, and offer good thermal insulation. Typically lasting between 20 to 35 years depending on care and conditions. They come in a variety of styles, colours and finishes, allowing for customisation to match the building’s aesthetics. uPVC windows can be fitted with secure locking systems, providing an extra layer of security.
uPVC tends to be less expensive than aluminium. This is because uPVC is a cheaper material to produce and install than aluminium, which requires more complex manufacturing processes. Due to the cost differences, UPVC windows can be a much better option when you have a lot of windows to fit.
Noise does not travel through uPVC very easily. The handy non-conductive qualities of uPVC make it ideal for absorbing sound waves.
uPVC windows also come with a wide selection of colour finishes. Plus, their finish options include smooth and woodgrain finishes. Woodgrain finishes emulate the tones and textures of real timbers, and they work especially well with country cottages, period properties and homes where a more traditional window appearance is required.
Overall, uPVC windows are a practical and popular window solution with numerous benefits. uPVC is very reliable and can be an excellent material for both windows and doors. uPVC is best when you want a cost-effective, dependable outcome.
Why choose Aluminium Windows?
Aluminium windows are popular for their strength, and resistance to corrosion, making them suitable for use in various buildings, including homes, offices, and commercial structures.
Aluminium windows are highly durable and are known for their long lifespan. On average, they can last between 30 to 45 years depending on care and conditions. This longevity is due to aluminium’s resistance to rust, corrosion, and its ability to withstand harsh weather conditions.
Additionally, proper installation and regular maintenance can further extend their life, making them a robust choice for both residential and commercial properties.
Aluminium windows are also lightweight and low maintenance, which makes them a cost-effective option in the long run. They come in a range of styles, colour options, designs and finishes, providing flexibility in aesthetics and functionality.
The strength of aluminium is superior to uPVC. As a result, aluminium window frames can be built to slimmer proportions than uPVC window frames. The result of this is a minimalist appearance, which is especially well suited to modern homes or picture windows where the view is important.
They offer good thermal and acoustic insulation, making them environmentally friendly, energy-efficient and soundproof.
The types of finishes available for aluminium include matte and gloss finishes, with the latter giving off a more metallic appearance.
Overall, aluminium windows are a popular choice for those seeking a modern and practical window solution. Aluminium is an ultra-strong and very long-lasting window type, with the key benefits being aesthetics and durability – the main drawback tends to be the initial costs involved.
What to consider when choosing windows
It is important to look at your local area when selecting your windows, reviewing how the neighbouring houses are styled and what would suit the area best is important. The style of your property will have a much bigger impact on the windows you choose than you think. You must consider when your property was built, the area in which it was constructed, and even the value of your property. This could become even more crucial when you want to sell the property in the future.
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 sleek and elegant finish. However, for some listed buildings or buildings that are situated in a conservation area, uPVC windows can be the best route.
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 are considering 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 can customise your look even further when it comes to creating the space you really want. Ensure that you choose the window style that best suits your property.
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. We do have some helpful Operation and Maintenance guides. 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.
uPVC vs Aluminium: Energy Efficiency
In short, both aluminium windows and uPVC windows have high levels of insulation and energy efficiency ratings. We recommend checking the window energy rating (WER) before making any purchases or talk to us if you need further advice. This will guarantee you’ll be getting the lowest energy bills you can be.
So… do I choose uPVC or aluminium windows?
If you’re operating on a budget, the cost-effectiveness of uPVC windows might make them a better option for you. The same is true if you live in a period property or traditional building. Aluminium windows, however, are perfect for more modern homes and if you can afford the extra initial outlay, they might provide the best value over time.
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 Spire Glass today. You can request a free quote, enquire about our lead times, or simply chat to one of our window experts about what we can do for you and your property.
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