Aluminium and UPVC as materials have different benefits and features. For windows, your choice will depend on your budget and the style of your property. We are regularly asked what the difference is between aluminium and UPVC windows, so we have covered all of the most common features and questions in this article.
We are one of the leading suppliers and installers of UPVC windows in Bristol and aluminium windows in Bristol. Get in touch with our team to get your free consultation and quote when looking to upgrade or replace your windows.
Feature | uPVC Windows | Aluminium Windows |
Style & Best Uses | Budget-conscious renovations, traditional or heritage homes, and high-noise urban areas. | Contemporary new builds, large-scale glass walls, and coastal/harsh weather environments. |
Average Lifespan | 20 – 30 years | 40 – 50+ years |
Frame Profile | Thicker, chunkier frames; less glass area. | Slim, minimalist sightlines to maximise natural light. |
Thermal Efficiency | Excellent: Naturally non-conductive; keeps heat in very effectively. | Excellent: Requires a “thermal break” to prevent heat loss, but modern units are highly efficient. |
Sound Insulation | Good: Multi-chambered plastic frames dampen vibrations better. | Good: Relies more on the quality of the glazing than the frame. Our windows are of very high quality for superior sound insulation. |
Maintenance | Extremely low. It’s very easy to clean the window using just a mild detergent and warm water or a specific cleaning product. | Low (occasional cleaning; powder coating is very durable). |
Sustainability | Recyclable (up to 10 times), but plastic-based. | High: Infinitely recyclable without losing quality. Aluminium is the most recyclable material on the planet. |
Deciding On Your Budget
Your budget is the most important factor in deciding on your choice of material. Aluminium is more expensive than UPVC, and both materials have different benefits. UPVC also has different style types than aluminium, with more traditional looks vs the modern aesthetic that aluminium provides. If you are looking for a bigger return on your investment, then you will want to consider more expensive options and materials, because this will increase the overall value of your property.
Matching the Style of Your Home
Aluminium matches modern styles of homes with the look and appeal of the material. Aluminium is typically chosen because of its minimalist design, and this is appealing for modern homes. UPVC provides a more classic look, with colour-matching options available to match your property if you require this. UPVC has different features, so the choice is usually due to your budget as well as the specific style of your property.
When Do You Need to Replace Your Windows?
If you are having problems or difficulties with your current window, then this can be understandably frustrating. You can lose money each year on your energy bills if your windows are warped, have gaps in them, or are letting heat out by other means in the winter, and they can make your home uncomfortable in the summer. If your window has clear signs of draughts, condensation or physical damage, then it’s time to replace your window. There are some issues that can be repaired, but others will require full replacements.
Modern Vs Traditional
Modern and traditional designs can use both styles, with aluminium typically being used for modern homes and UPVC being used to colour match traditional properties. Although it is fairly common to choose aluminium for modern design, you can chop and choose the different designs to suit you. You don’t have to choose a typical design, and we will help you design the best design to suit your property.
With permissions, you are typically covered with permitted development on all improvements for windows. If you have a property in a conservation area or a listed building, then you will likely require planning permission. We can advise you on this during the planning stage of your project.
Looking to refresh your home? We’re proud to be one of Bristol’s leading suppliers and installers of stylish UPVC and aluminium windows. Reach out to our team today for your free consultation and quote!