Aluminium Windows vs uPVC Windows
James Elston

James Elston

Published March 11, 2025

Last Updated on March 14, 2025

When it comes to choosing new windows, two of the most popular options in the UK are aluminium windows and uPVC windows. 

Each has its own advantages and drawbacks, and deciding between them depends on several factors, including aesthetics, insulation, energy efficiency, security, cost, and maintenance.

In this detailed guide, we’ll compare aluminium windows vs uPVC windows to help you make an informed decision.

Aluminium Windows vs UPVC Windows: A Quick Comparison

FeatureAluminium WindowsuPVC Windows
Aesthetic AppealSleek, modern, slim framesClassic, slightly bulkier frames
Opening MechanismVarious designs, bi-folding & sliding availableMostly casement, tilt-and-turn, or sliding
VentilationGood airflow, flexible opening optionsDecent airflow, less flexible design
Energy EfficiencyHigh with thermal breaksHigh, but depends on glazing
SecurityVery strong, durable, and tamper-resistantSecure but can degrade over time
CostHigher upfront costMore affordable option
Best Suited ForModern, commercial, and high-end homesTraditional homes, budget-conscious homeowners

Aluminium Windows vs UPVC Windows: Which Is Better?

Each window type comes with its own set of key features, making them suitable for different homeowners’ needs.

Key Features of Aluminium Windows

  • Sleek, slimline frames for a modern, contemporary look.
  • Highly durable – resistant to rust, warping, and fading.
  • Great for large window spaces, allowing more natural light.
  • Available in various colours with a powder-coated finish.
  • Slightly higher cost, but lasts longer than uPVC.

Pros and Cons Aluminium Windows

Pros
  • Modern and stylish
  • Slimmer frames for more glass area
  • Extremely durable
  • Low maintenance
Cons
  • Higher initial cost
  • Can conduct heat without thermal breaks
  • Requires professional installation
  • Less traditional look

Key Features of uPVC Windows

  • Cost-effective option for budget-conscious homeowners.
  • Good thermal efficiency, preventing heat loss.
  • Low maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning.
  • Available in various styles and colours.
  • Can deteriorate over time, becoming brittle and discoloured.

Pros and Cons uPVC Windows

Pros
  • Affordable and widely available
  • High energy efficiency
  • Good insulation properties
  • Low maintenance
Cons
  • Bulkier frames
  • Can discolour over time
  • Less strong than aluminium
  • May not suit modern properties

Which Property Types Are Best for Aluminium Windows vs UPVC Windows?

Choosing the right window material depends on the architectural style of your home and your specific needs. Some window types complement modern homes, while others suit traditional period properties.

Best Properties for Aluminium Windows

Aluminium windows are a premium choice often found in high-end, contemporary, and commercial buildings. They are best suited for:

  • Modern & Contemporary Homes – Due to their slimline frames, aluminium windows complement modern architecture and minimalist home designs. Homes built in the 21st century with open-plan layouts and large glass panels benefit from aluminium’s sleek appearance.
  • New-Build Homes & Apartments – Many new homes in the UK now incorporate aluminium windows because of their durability, modern aesthetic, and ability to support large glazing areas.
  • Commercial & Office Buildings – Aluminium is exceptionally strong, making it ideal for large window installations in office buildings, schools, and commercial properties.
  • Industrial-Style Homes & Loft Conversions – Aluminium windows complement the industrial aesthetic of loft conversions, barn conversions, and repurposed warehouses.
  • Edwardian & Mid-Century Homes (with Modern Renovations) – If you’re upgrading an Edwardian or 1950s property with a contemporary extension, aluminium windows can create a striking contrast with older brickwork.

Best Properties for UPVC Windows

UPVC windows are affordable, easy to maintain, and well-suited to traditional homes. They work best in:

  • Victorian & Edwardian Homes – Many homeowners choose woodgrain-effect uPVC windows to replicate traditional timber sash windows in period properties.
  • Georgian Homes – UPVC windows can be fitted with Georgian bars to maintain the classic multi-pane look. to support large glazing areas.
  • Cottages & Rural Homes – White or woodgrain uPVC blends well with country-style homes, offering a low-maintenance alternative to timber.
  • Rental & Buy-to-Let Properties – Landlords favour uPVC windows as they are budget-friendly, durable, and easy to replace.
  • Budget-Conscious Homeowners – If cost is a key concern, uPVC is the more economical choice, offering excellent insulation at a lower price.

Aluminium Windows vs UPVC Windows: Styles

Both aluminium and uPVC windows come in a variety of styles to suit different architectural designs and homeowner preferences.

  • Casement Windows – Available in both materials, these outward-opening windows are the most common style in the UK.
  • Sliding Windows – More common in aluminium, ideal for modern homes and apartments due to their sleek operation and minimalistic design.
  • Tilt & Turn Windows – Popular in aluminium, these windows provide excellent ventilation options, allowing them to open inward for easy cleaning.
  • Bay & Bow Windows – Frequently found in uPVC, particularly in Victorian and Edwardian homes, where they enhance traditional aesthetics.
  • Bi-Fold Windows – Almost exclusively available in aluminium, bi-fold windows create wide openings, making them perfect for kitchens and modern extensions.

Insulation & Energy Efficiency

Energy efficiency plays a critical role in window selection. While both aluminium and uPVC windows can be highly efficient, glazing type makes a significant difference in performance.

Glazing Options & Costs

Glazing TypeAluminium WindowsUPVC WindowsAverage Cost (Per Window)
Single GlazingPoor insulation, rarely usedPoor insulation, rarely used£200 – £400
Double GlazingGood efficiency with thermal breaksStandard choice for insulation£300 – £800
Triple GlazingBest insulation, reduces noiseBest insulation for warmth retention£500 – £1,200

Which Glazing Option is Best?

  • Most Energy Efficient – Triple glazing provides superior thermal insulation, reducing heat loss and external noise.
  • Least Energy Efficient – Single glazing offers minimal insulation and is rarely recommended.
  • Most Affordable – Double glazing strikes a balance between performance and cost.
  • Most Expensive – Triple glazing offers the best efficiency but comes at a higher price point.

Ventilation & Draughts

Ventilation is essential for preventing condensation and ensuring airflow in a home.

  • Aluminium windows tend to have tighter seals, reducing draughts and improving thermal efficiency. However, if installed incorrectly, they can become prone to condensation due to aluminium’s natural conductivity.
  • UPVC windows offer good airflow, but over time, their seals can degrade, leading to draughts if not maintained properly.

Which is Better for Ventilation?

  • Aluminium tilt-and-turn windows offer better airflow control.
  • uPVC casement windows are easier to seal against draughts.

Security Features

Security is a key consideration for homeowners when choosing windows.

  • Aluminium windows are stronger and more tamper-resistant, making them ideal for ground-floor installations and high-crime areas.
  • UPVC windows are still secure but can weaken with age, especially if the locks and frames degrade over time.

Which Offers Better Security?

  • Aluminium windows have a higher resistance to forced entry.
  • UPVC windows are secure but require reinforced locking systems for added protection.

Maintenance & Longevity

FactorAluminium WindowsUPVC Windows
CleaningOccasional wipe-downEasy to clean
Wear and TearResistant to rust & warpingCan become brittle over time
Longevity30-50 years20-30 years

Which Windows Require More Maintenance?

  • Aluminium windows require less maintenance, as they do not warp, crack, or discolour.
  • UPVC windows need more frequent cleaning, as white frames can stain over time and deteriorate after decades of exposure to sunlight.

Which Windows Last Longer?

  • Aluminium windows last longer (30-50 years) due to their resistance to weathering and structural strength.
  • UPVC windows have a shorter lifespan (20-30 years) but are cheaper to replace.

Costs & Installation

The cost of new windows varies based on factors like size, material, glazing choices, and installation difficulty. Below, we’ll compare the average prices of aluminium and uPVC windows:

Window TypeAverage Cost (Per Window)
Aluminium Windows£500 – £1,500
uPVC Windows£250 – £800

Which Is More Expensive: Aluminium or uPVC Windows?

Installation Requirements & Timeframe

  • Aluminium window installation takes longer due to precise fitting.
  • uPVC windows are quicker and easier to install.

Which Is Best for Your Home: Aluminium Windows vs UPVC Windows?

The best choice depends on your budget, property type, and style preference.

Choose aluminium windows if:

  • You want a modern, high-end look.
  • You prioritise durability and strength.
  • You have larger window spaces for maximum natural light.

Choose uPVC windows if

  • You need an affordable window solution.
  • You own a traditional home.
  • You want a low-maintenance option.

Comparing Aluminium Windows to Other Materials

Choosing the right window material is an important decision, and aluminium and uPVC aren’t the only options available. If you’re considering other materials, you might find these comparisons helpful:

  • Aluclad vs aluminium windows – Aluclad windows combine the best of both worlds, featuring a tough aluminium exterior for weather resistance and a wooden interior for a natural, warm aesthetic.
  • Aluminium vs steel windows – Both aluminium and steel are known for their strength and sleek, modern look, but they have significant differences in cost, thermal efficiency, and maintenance. Steel is incredibly durable but requires more upkeep, while aluminium offers better energy efficiency.
  • Aluminium vs wood windows – Wooden windows provide a classic, elegant appearance and excellent insulation, but they require more maintenance compared to aluminium. Aluminium, on the other hand, is low-maintenance, weather-resistant, and more suited for modern aesthetics. 

Get a Free Quote for Aluminium or UPVC Windows

If you’re considering new windows, our experts can help! Whether you prefer the sleek appeal of aluminium windows or the cost-effective benefits of uPVC windows, we provide high-quality installation services across the UK.

Request a free quote today and we will provide you with the best solution for your home.

James Elston

James Elston

Boiler Expert


James Elston is the top boiler replacement and heating expert at Eco Happy. He has over 20 years of experience in the industry, focusing on Gas Safe boiler installations and offering home-heating and energy-saving solutions to homeowners across the UK. From sourcing the most energy-efficient combi boiler to providing specialist heating advice, James ensures that Eco Happy maintains the highest standards and best customer service.

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