uPVC vs Aluminium Windows: Which Comes Out on Top?

Quick answer

Choose uPVC if you want an affordable, energy efficient and low maintenance option. Choose aluminium if you prefer a slimmer, more modern frame, greater durability and a wider choice of colours. Both materials are efficient and long lasting, but aluminium delivers a more premium finish while uPVC offers the best value for money.

Understanding uPVC versus aluminium windows

New windows are a great way to improve your home’s energy efficiency and refresh its appearance. But which material is best? Two of the main options for modern homes are aluminium and uPVC.

To make your decision easier, this article compares uPVC vs aluminium windows in terms of their strengths, weaknesses and main selling points.

Key takeaways

1. uPVC windows are the best value option if you want to improve efficiency on a tighter budget with low maintenance.
2. Aluminium windows provide a slimmer, more modern frame with a wider choice of colours and a premium finish.
3. Both uPVC and aluminium are durable and energy efficient, with uPVC typically lasting 20 to 30 years and aluminium often lasting even longer.
4. uPVC is usually around 20 to 30 percent cheaper per window than aluminium, depending on size, style and manufacturer.
5. Aluminium frames can support larger panes of glass, helping to create brighter rooms and boost kerb appeal.
6. The right choice depends on your budget, style preferences and how much you value customisation, so it is worth discussing both with your installer.

Table of Contents

uPVC: Affordable and energy efficient
Aluminium: Bespoke, modern and energy efficient
uPVC vs aluminium windows: Which is best for you?
Weigh things up with Aluglaze

uPVC: Affordable and energy efficient

Key benefits of uPVC windows

When it comes to window replacement, uPVC has become the go-to choice. With good reason too, in many ways. It is an energy efficient option, with the choice of double glazing and triple glazing to reduce heat loss in winter and heat gain in summer.

uPVC is also highly durable, withstanding different weather conditions without warping or rotting. And it does not require painting, sanding or varnishing. You just need to clean it with soap and water every so often to keep it looking fresh. In terms of lifespan, you are looking at 20 to 30 years from good quality uPVC.

Cost and appearance considerations

The main benefit of uPVC compared to aluminium is the cost. It is an affordable option, typically costing around 20 to 30 percent less per window than premium aluminium. Obviously, this depends on factors like the size, style and manufacturer of the windows.

However, the appearance does leave a bit to be desired. uPVC windows usually look fresh and simple but not stunning like their aluminium counterparts. You are also a little limited in terms of customisation, with standard colours like white, grey, black and brown making up the usual options.

Aluminium: Bespoke, modern and energy efficient

Why homeowners choose aluminium

Moving on to aluminium, these windows are fast becoming the top choice for UK homeowners wanting to transform their property. Aluminium is much stronger than uPVC as a material, which means the frames can be slimmer while supporting large panes of glass.

That creates a sleek, modern look in your home, complemented by a wide choice of colours thanks to powder coating.

Durability, efficiency and cost

Like uPVC, aluminium windows are durable and energy efficient. They are actually a bit hardier than uPVC windows, with well installed aluminium windows lasting up to three or four decades.

Of course, this stylish appearance and high durability come at a cost. Aluminium windows will set you back more than uPVC, but they can also add value to your property by improving kerb appeal and creating brighter, more airy living spaces.

uPVC vs aluminium windows: Which is best for you?

Quick decision checklist

The choice between uPVC and aluminium windows really comes down to your budget and personal preferences:

• Choose uPVC if you want the most cost effective way to improve your home’s efficiency.
• Choose aluminium if you value style, longevity and customisation or want slimmer, modern frames.

Weigh things up with Aluglaze

At Aluglaze, we install both uPVC and aluminium windows throughout Leeds, West Yorkshire and further afield. If you are stuck between the two, our team can break down your options in person during a home survey.

We take a consultative approach to window installation, so it is never about what we want to install but what is best for you and your home. To get started, call our team today on 0113 519 5507.