We have already written many times that choosing windows is not such a simple matter. After all, they are to decorate not only the facade of the house and its interior, but also serve us for many years. One of the first dilemmas you have to face is the decision of what material to use. Aluminium or uPVC windows? Contrary to appearances, this is not only a question of aesthetics, but also durability and resistance to weather conditions. Thermal and acoustic parameters as well as anti-burglary functions should also be taken into consideration. Each solution has its own advantages and disadvantages - we will try to bring you closer to all of them to help you decide which window to choose.
Are aluminium windows better than uPVC?
Despite the still growing interest in aluminium or wooden profiles, uPVC windows have been very popular for several decades. Their attractive price is certainly not without significance, but is it really a decisive argument?
uPVC windows are characterised by good durability and high levels of thermal and acoustic insulation. When buying them you should pay attention to the Uw heat transfer coefficient. It is best if it is lower than the standard 1.1 W/(m2-K) - this will ensure additional thermal insulation. For example, passive windows with triple glazing - according to European standards, their Uw is equal to or lower than 0.8 W/(m2-K). This is completely sufficient to protect against heat loss in the colder seasons.
Standard uPVC windows with double glazing have an Rw of around 30 db, but there are some on the market that insulate us from noise at a level of almost 50 db. This is a very good result, so if you're looking for windows that will muffle outside noises, these plastic ones won't let you down.
It may not be the first thought that comes to mind in the case of such profiles, but uPVC windows give us a lot of personalisation possibilities. Thanks to them we can give the building an individual character. In the past, only white windows dominated, now a rich colour palette and the availability of smooth and timber look veneers mean that more and more people are opting for just such solutions.
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Check our offer of uPVC windows:
uPVC window Aluplast ID 4000
uPVC vs. aluminium windows
Plastic windows do not withstand strong sunlight very well. This is due to the properties of the plastic itself as well as the colours in which it can be painted or veneered. The most common colours for uPVC windows are white, which can turn yellow over time. Exposure to high temperatures also means that there is a risk that the profiles will start to change their size, leading to problems with window tightness. The same applies to dark-coloured windows or those with dark-coloured veneers. Especially on windows located on the south side of the house, after a few years you may notice the colour fading, or the veneer peeling off and wrinkling. Although this does not affect the tightness of the window, but its aesthetic qualities definitely do.
Another disadvantage is the low rigidity of uPVC windows. What does this mean? If we are planning large glazings in our house, we'd better think about choosing a more solid material.
Aluminium or uPVC windows - what to choose?
Why are aluminium windows better than uPVC? Aluminium windows are known for their longevity and durability. This is the effect of the properties of the raw material alone. Aluminium is a lightweight and corrosion-resistant material, therefore it is suitable for large glazings and modern buildings. The thermal and insulation parameters of aluminium windows, thanks to appropriate glazing packages, are comparable to uPVC windows.
Aluminium windows also show high resistance to weather conditions. They do not deform under the influence of high temperatures and they change colour less frequently than uPVC windows. They also offer a lot of possibilities when it comes to the colour finish of profiles. They may be painted in any colour from the RAL palette or with dedicated paints.
Aluminium joinery seems to be the obvious choice if we care about anti-burglary functions. Aluminium constructions are very solid and offer strong resistance to burglars. Of course, the choice of an appropriate glazing package or additional security measures is also important here.
Check out our offer of aluminium windows:
Aliplast GENESIS 75 window
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Plastic-aluminium windows
There is a solution for people who still can't decide: plastic or aluminium windows? A good idea in such a case would be plastic windows with aluminium caps. They combine the best features of both these profiles. Their greatest advantage is their durability, solidity and very good thermal insulation parameters. The use of aluminium on the outside of the window in turn protects the plastic against the effects of UV radiation and corrosion.
Ask our consultant for a comparative quote for uPVC windows and aluminium windows:
