The choice of windows for the house is one of the most important elements during its design and construction. It depends on them, among others, comfort of use, thermal or acoustic insulation, or safety. So which windows to choose? To find out the answer to this question, as well as find out what are the advantages and prices of aluminum and PVC windows (and not only), read on!
Choosing the right material for windows is a key decision that affects not only the aesthetics, but also the functionality and energy efficiency of the building. Below we will discuss the main differences between Aluminum windows and PVC windows.
Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC) is a synthetic plastic that has gained popularity in the window market due to its strength, weather resistance and affordable price. This material is lightweight, but at the same time offers good thermal and sound insulation due to its insulating properties.
Aluminium, known for its exceptional durability and corrosion resistance, is often chosen for the construction of windows in modern large glazing. Aluminum is a more rigid and durable material than PVC, which allows you to create thinner window frames and larger glazing without losing structural strength.
durability - Aluminum windows are much more resistant to mechanical damage and changeable weather conditions than PVC windows. Aluminum does not deform even with large temperature changes, which is crucial especially in public or commercial buildings.
Thermal insulation - PVC offers better thermal insulation by the nature of the material. The chamber structure of PVC profiles is naturally more insulating, which can contribute to the reduction of energy losses in the building. Aluminum windows, although in the past they have been criticized for their inferior insulation performance, nowadays, thanks to the use of advanced technologies such as thermal spacers, achieve comparable results.
Aesthetics - Aluminum wins in the category of modern design, offering slim profiles and minimalism, which is valued in modern architectural realizations. PVC, on the other hand, is more flexible in terms of finish and colors, thanks to the possibility of veneering.
PVC is most often used in housing construction, both in new and renovated single-family houses. Due to its thermal insulation properties and ease of maintenance, it is ideal for use in domestic environments where thermal comfort and low maintenance costs are a priority.
Aluminium is preferred in projects where large glazing and a modern look are key, such as office buildings, commercial malls or luxury apartment buildings. Its ability to create large, stable and aesthetically appealing structures makes it ideal for applications where aesthetics and durability are equally important.
In conclusion, the choice between PVC and aluminum should be dictated by the specifics of the project, aesthetic expectations, thermal insulation requirements and budget.
You may also be interested in: Heat transfer coefficient (Uw) - what is it?
Windows made of PVC are one of the most frequently chosen solutions in the window joinery market. Their popularity is due to many advantages, but like any solution, they also have their drawbacks. Below are the advantages and disadvantages of PVC windows. Here they are:
You can read more about plastic windows here: PVC windows - we debunk the myths about PVC joinery.
User reviews of PVC windows usually emphasize their good value for money, excellent insulating properties and ease of maintenance. However, some people point to problems with yellowing of window frames or loss of aesthetics after a few years, especially in more demanding climatic conditions. Customers also appreciate the ease of cleaning and maintenance, which is often indicated as a great advantage compared to other materials that require regular care.
Aluminum windows are valued in modern architecture for their aesthetics and functionality. Although they are an ideal choice for many projects, they have both advantages and disadvantages, which we present below. These are:
Also read: Why you should invest in aluminum joinery - the advantages of aluminum windows.
Learn more about aluminum windows: Aluminum windows - we debunk the myths about aluminum joinery.
The choice between PVC and aluminum windows should not be based solely on purchase prices, but also on the analysis of the cost of installation and long-term maintenance. Considering these aspects will help in assessing which option is most profitable in the long run. Check out our tips on what to look for when comparing the cost of all-round plastic and aluminum windows!
If you do not know which windows will suit your needs and finances, contact us, and our advisors will help you choose the best solution!
In response to numerous customer requests, manufacturers have also found the optimal compromise for people who can not choose which windows are better. Aluminum overlay in PVC windows, because this is what we are talking about, it is a combination of both solutions. Thanks to this, plastic windows become much more durable, and their aesthetics and thermal insulation performance are also improved. It is a great choice for people who particularly value high thermal insulation, top quality and durability.
Modern aluminum windows have undergone a significant evolution, especially in terms of improving thermal insulation. Thanks to new technologies and innovative technical solutions, these windows have become more energy efficient, which positively affects their functionality and popularity in the market.
Among the new technologies used in aluminum windows we can find:
Examples of innovations in windows:
Modern aluminum windows, thanks to the use of the above-mentioned technologies, can achieve heat transfer coefficients (Uw) comparable and sometimes even better than PVC windows, which are traditionally considered more insulating. For example, modern aluminum systems can achieve Uw below 0.8 W/ (m²K), which is typical for passive construction.
In comparison, older aluminum window models often had Uw factors in excess of 1.5 W/ (m²K), which was the result of poorer thermal insulation. Thanks to new solutions, aluminum windows not only match, but sometimes surpass PVC windows in terms of thermal insulation, while offering all the other advantages of aluminum, such as durability, aesthetics and low maintenance requirements.
When choosing windows, it is worth considering not only their thermal or aesthetic properties, but also the impact on the environment. Making informed decisions in an ecological context can make a significant contribution to sustainable development.
The manufacturing process of windows, both PVC and aluminum, generates different effects on the environment. Produktion aluminum is energy-intensive and involves greenhouse gas emissions, but modern technologies allow to significantly reduce these impacts through the use of renewable energy and aluminum recycling. In turn, production PVC involves the use of chemicals that can be harmful if not properly managed.
Aluminium windows offer better durability and can contribute to increasing the energy efficiency of buildings, thanks to their insulating properties, especially in modern versions with thermal partitions. PVC windows They also offer good insulating properties, which translates into a reduction in energy consumption for heating and cooling of premises.
Aluminium is a 100% recycled material, which means that it can be repeatedly processed without losing its properties. PVC can also be recycled, however, this process is more complicated and often involves less efficient material recovery.
If, however, we are talking about recycling, aluminum is considered one of the most environmentally friendly construction materials, since its recycling requires only about 5% of the energy needed to produce primary aluminum. As a result, aluminum windows can be considered a more sustainable choice in the context of the entire product life cycle. PVC, although recycled, in practice often ends up in landfills due to the difficulty of separating components (e.g. gaskets, glass and other metals) and PVC itself, which reduces the efficiency of the recycling process.
Many modern windows, both PVC and aluminum, meet environmental standards such as LEED (Leadership in Energy and Environmental Design) whether BREEAM (Building Research Establishment Environmental Assessment Method). These windows are characterized by high energy efficiency, minimal environmental impact during production, as well as the possibility of recycling after the end of use.
Also read: Windows for a Passive and Energy-Efficient Home.
The decision to choose windows is a key element of any building project, affecting not only the aesthetics, but also the functionality, comfort and energy efficiency of the building. This choice should be well thought out and adapted to our needs. Below are the most important elements that you should pay attention to when choosing windows. Here they are:
The choice of windows should harmonize with the overall architectural style of the building, which is crucial for maintaining the visual coherence and aesthetic value of the property. For example:
The choice of windows has a significant impact on the thermal comfort inside the building and on the costs associated with heating and cooling, which is especially important in a variety of climatic conditions:
When installing windows, it is necessary to take into account local regulations and building standards, which may affect the choice of window types. These regulations often apply to:
It is worth remembering that only a comprehensive approach guarantees that the selected windows will optimally meet all expectations and requirements.
Aluminum windows can be colder to the touch than PVC or wooden windows, especially in colder weather, due to the heat-conducting properties of aluminum. However, modern aluminum windows are equipped with thermal partitions, which significantly improve their thermal insulation performance. Due to this, the difference in the temperature of the inner surface of the frames is minimal, which makes them comfortable to use all year round.
The insulating properties of windows depend on several factors, including the material of the frames, the type of glazing and the quality of the assembly. In general, double or triple glazed windows and thicker glazing offer better sound insulation. PVC and wooden windows with well-designed frames and seals can be more effective at suppressing noise than traditional aluminum windows. However, modern aluminum windows with advanced thermal partition systems and triple glazing, can equally effectively insulate against external noise.
Yes, you can install aluminum windows in an old building, but it is important to consider a few points. The first is aesthetics - aluminum windows, with their modern appearance, may not fit into all architectural styles. The second point is the technical possibility of installation - in some cases it may be necessary to strengthen the window openings. It is advisable to consult with an architect or window specialist to ensure that the new windows will be aesthetically and functionally appropriate.
The service life of windows depends on many factors, such as the quality of materials, weather conditions and the regularity of maintenance. PVC windows can serve up to 25-30 years, while aluminum windows, due to their exceptional resistance to weather conditions and mechanical damage, can last 30-40 years or more. Regular cleaning and maintenance are key to maximizing the durability and functionality of any type of window.
summarizing, choosing the right windows is a decision that should be dictated by both aesthetic and practical aspects. Properly selected window joinery can significantly increase the comfort of the apartment, the value of the property and contribute to energy savings.
And if you are looking for windows that are perfect for you, contact us. As a manufacturer of windows and exterior doors for many years, we perfectly understand the needs and concerns of our customers. We also invite you to visit our blog, where you will find more articles on opening joinery, and more!
