Aluminium windows come out as the winner for longevity when discussing how long to do windows last, but UPVC makes up for it by being similarly easy to maintain.

The life expectancy of an aluminium window is 30-40 years; however, it can surpass that estimate. Its remarkable strength is a bedrock of its longevity and ability to resist weathering. A powder-coated finish is fused into the aluminium profile so that fading, corrosion and peeling doesn’t manifest.

20-30 years is the average lifespan of UPVC windows. They’re robust enough and can combat weathering too. Be alert to substandard UPVC profiles, as they typically discolour, stain and become brittle upon prolonged exposure to sunlight and temperature changes.

Timber is way more difficult to preserve than aluminium and UPVC, which only need the following bits of treatment:

• Clean the frames using a soft non-abrasive cloth and warm soapy water to remove marks.
• Lubricate the different components every few months.
• Check on the seals and gaskets occasionally.

Aluminium and UPVC windows are both capable of offering top-rate security when specified to include reliable locking mechanisms and solid glazing.

They’re almost always specified like that, with modern aluminium and UPVC energy efficient windows incorporating a multipoint lock to drastically reduce the possibility of a forced break-in.

Aluminium is too strong to ever bend or warp, a major deterrent for burglars. Despite not quite rivalling aluminium’s resilience, UPVC frames with robust hardware and reinforced locks do a fine job of protecting spaces.

Frames are a critical element of security, but they rely on quality hinges, locks and glazing to offer a proper safeguard.

UPVC windows have a U-value of about 1.2 W/m²K and certain aluminium window systems match that, so yes, they will noticeably enhance home comfort.

Insulating gas sits between the glass panes, geared to restrict heat loss and subsequently increase warmth and energy savings. Thermal breaks are present within aluminium frames, and their job revolves around disturbing heat loss through the material, which is how it outclasses UPVC from an insulation standpoint.

All high-performance windows manage to elevate warmth in the winter months and cool down spaces in summer, relieving the need for excess heater or air conditioning usage. Money savings will arise from lower energy consumption, and this assists the planet’s health.

Choose either material and world-class thermal performance is a given.

You may find an old article we did about how to insulate windows an interesting read as it informs you of ways of increasing the thermal capabilities of energy-efficient windows.

When describing aluminium windows, you’ve got to reference their unbelievably slim and smart frames, which are occupied by giant glazed facets, magnifying views. It’s aluminium’s strength that allows for an ultra-sleek design with sufficient support for oversized panes. Most aluminium window installations occur at contemporary residences and when maximum light gain is desired.

UPVC windows are commonly used as a method of mirroring the appearance of classic wooden windows through the harnessing of woodgrain foil finishes. UPVC designs with a wood-like effect normally get fitted into traditional and period abodes and have the upside of limited maintenance, unlike old timber frames.

Most of the countless RAL colours can be chosen to be powder-coated onto aluminium frames, giving you heaps of options.

There’s not as many foil finishes for UPVC triple glazing windows as there are RAL colours for aluminium, but still, plenty of realistic woodgrains and current-day shades.

Some don’t consider the idea of combining the two materials – aluminium bi-folds or sliding doors can be paired with UPVC window frames if the hues of both match or complement one another.