One of the big questions that people face in choosing new windows is what material they want to use. There are quite a few options available these days, and each of them has benefits and drawbacks.
Three of the most popular types are uPVC (plastic), wood, and aluminum. In the sections below, we will investigate the pros and cons of each of them. What you choose depends on your home, the climate that you live in, and your personal priorities. And you should think about the style you want. Would bay, double-hung, or tilt & turn custom home windows suit you best? Keep this question in mind as you read the sections below.
UPVC
UPVC windows are definitely one of the most popular window types these days, and for good reason. Nonetheless, they are not the ideal choice for everyone, so here’s a look at the pros and cons.
UPVC windows provide a number of advantages vis-a-vis other types, including:
- They are low maintenance. You don’t have to paint or seal them, and they are extremely durable. While other types of windows might suffer damage over time, you won’t have to worry about this with uPVC windows.
- They are moisture resistant. Condensation buildup can be a real issue with many windows, but not with uPVC windows. They are also extremely easy to clean. You can simply wipe them down with a moist cloth as dirt doesn’t get trapped in crevices as it might with wood.
- Energy efficiency. Unplasticised polyvinyl, which is the actual material that these windows are made from, is an excellent insulator. It helps maintain indoor treasures both during the summer and winter, and consequently your energy bills will be lower.
- Durability. UPVC windows are incredibly durable. They will last for decades as the possibility of damage or corrosion is so low. If you live in a harsh climate, this could be a major factor in your decision making. And along with the increased security goes increased durability.
UPVC’s primary disadvantage is that some people don’t like the way they look. But this is a matter of personal preference. Check out Broga Window & Door to see the latest in this and all other window types.
Wood
Wood windows are prized for their beauty. While uPVC windows may be super efficient, they are not as aesthetically pleasing for many people. Wood also offers a number of other advantages:
- Insulation. Wood is a great insulator, which has been an advantage for people for many years as wood has historically been a popular material for homes. Like uPVC windows, it helps to keep homes warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
- Customization. Wood can be painted any number of times to suit people’s changing preferences. It can also be stained for an elegant classic look.
- Durability. Although it requires more work than uPVC windows do to maintain their appearance, they can last for a very long time if you take care of them.
Wood does have a few disadvantages. It can be subject to corrosion and damage. And if damage is significant enough, you might have to replace them. They also tend to be more expensive than other kinds of windows. For many people, the cost is justifiable because of their aesthetic value. It simply depends on your priorities and how you want your house to look.
Aluminum
The other window type that is big these days is aluminum. Many people are choosing aluminum windows for the following reasons:
- Durability. Aluminum windows are both super strong, and also very lightweight. Like uPVC windows, they are highly resistant to warping and rusting.
- Easy maintenance. You won’t have to do much to maintain your aluminum windows. You might need to give them a light cleaning once in a while, but not nearly as much as with wood.
- Modern look. If this is what you are looking for, the sleek appearance of aluminum appeals to many people these days. It all depends on your house and what type of look you are interested in.
- Affordability. Aluminum tends to be very cheap, so if you are looking to save money, this could be a good option for you.
- Recyclability. If you are looking for a sustainable option, you will be happy to know that aluminum is recyclable. It is also fire resistant.
Aluminum does have some downsides. It is not as energy efficient as certain other types of windows. If you live in a moderate climate where energy loss isn’t as much of a concern, then you might choose aluminum. If you live in a more extreme climate, this might not be the best choice for you. It also doesn’t handle condensation as well.
Consider your priorities
As you can see, each of these window types offers specific advantages. Everyone has their own priorities, though. Certain types are better suited to particular climates, for example. Others have aesthetic qualities that people might place a high priority on. Think about your house type, the climate you live in, the amount of maintenance that you are willing to put in, and whether or not you might want to do things like change colors in the future. This will help you make the right decision for your home.
With a Master in Architectural Studies from University of Pennysylvania, Marwa Haydar has pioneered living spaces since 2005. Her expertise, initially honed in a prestigious architectural firm, is evident in her approach to creating environments. Marwa became part of our team in 2019 and has since been a driving force in our home improvement section, known for her practical yet stylish solutions. She’s been spearheading our design workshops since then, infusing her passion for teaching into her work. In her leisure time, Marwa enjoys exploring historic architecture and is an enthusiastic pottery hobbyist, further enriching her understanding of form and texture.
