Aluminium vs Wood Windows: Which Is Best For Your Home?

Last Updated on March 14, 2025

When choosing new windows for your home, the decision between aluminium vs wood windows can be challenging. Both materials offer distinct advantages and drawbacks in terms of aesthetics, insulation, security, maintenance, and cost.

This comprehensive guide will help UK homeowners, landlords, and property developers decide which option is best suited for their needs.

Contents

1 Aluminium vs Wood Windows: A Quick Comparison
2 Aluminium vs Wood Windows: Which Is Better?
3 Which Is Best for Your Home: Aluminium vs Wood Windows?
4 Aluminium Windows vs Other Materials
5 Get a Free Quote for Aluminium Windows Today!

Aluminium vs Wood Windows: A Quick Comparison

Feature	Aluminium Windows	Wood Windows
Aesthetic Appeal	Sleek, modern, slim frames	Traditional, warm, natural
Opening Mechanism	Various styles available	Various styles available
Ventilation	Good airflow, slim frames allow more glass area	Good airflow, traditional designs suit period homes
Energy Efficiency	Requires thermal breaks for better insulation	Naturally insulating, better at retaining heat
Security	Highly secure, durable frames	Secure but can weaken over time if not maintained
Cost	Generally more expensive upfront	Can be more affordable but requires ongoing maintenance
Best Suited For	Modern homes, commercial properties, high-traffic areas	Period properties, heritage homes, eco-friendly builds

Aluminium vs Wood Windows: Which Is Better?

Key Features

Durability: Aluminium is resistant to rust and rot, while wood requires more maintenance.
Thermal Performance: Wood naturally insulates well, whereas aluminium requires a thermal break to match performance.
Aesthetic Options: Aluminium is ideal for contemporary designs; wood suits traditional homes.
Cost Considerations: Aluminium is typically more expensive upfront, while wood can have higher long-term maintenance costs.

Pros and Cons Aluminium Windows

Pros

Sleek and modern appearance
Highly durable and weather-resistant
Low maintenance
Available in various finishes and colours
Excellent security featuress

Cons

Can be more expensive upfront
May not suit traditional or heritage homes
Requires a thermal break for insulation

Pros and Cons Wood Windows

Pros

Classic and timeless aesthetic
Naturally insulating
Can be repaired and repainted
Sustainable if sourced from certified suppliers

Cons

Prone to rot, warping, and insect damage
Requires regular maintenance
Can be more expensive in the long run due to upkeep

Which Property Types Are Best for Aluminium vs Wood Windows?

The choice between aluminium vs wood windows largely depends on the type of property you are looking to enhance. Different materials work better for different architectural styles, so it’s essential to consider the look, feel, and overall aesthetic of your property before making a decision.

Best Properties for Aluminium Windows

Aluminium windows are often chosen for their sleek, modern appearance and their durability, making them a popular choice for contemporary properties. Here are some specific property types where aluminium windows work best:

Modern Homes and New Builds:

Aluminium windows are perfect for modern homes and new builds due to their clean, minimalist design. Their slim profiles allow for larger panes of glass, which is ideal for open-plan spaces and contemporary architecture.
Aluminium windows can be custom-designed to fit modern architectural trends, and their durability ensures they can withstand the elements in urban areas.

Commercial Properties and Office Buildings:

Aluminium windows are often used in commercial buildings because of their security, low maintenance, and aesthetic appeal.
They provide a sleek, professional look that complements the clean lines of many commercial designs. Additionally, aluminium’s ability to offer high levels of insulation and natural light intake makes it a functional and efficient choice for office spaces.

High-rise Apartments and Urban Settings:

Aluminium windows are ideal for high-rise apartments and urban environments. Their slim profiles allow for larger glass panes, offering expansive views of cityscapes.
Their resilience to wind, rain, and general wear and tear makes them well-suited for buildings in areas where weather conditions may be harsher.

Best Properties for Wood Windows

Wood windows are synonymous with traditional aesthetics and are often found in older or more character-rich homes. Their natural beauty and insulating properties make them an excellent choice for several types of properties:

Period Homes and Listed Buildings:

Victorian, Edwardian, and Georgian homes, as well as listed buildings, often feature wooden windows. The natural look and historical accuracy of wood frames help preserve the period charm of these homes.
Using wood windows in these settings is often a requirement to maintain the property’s authentic appearance and meet conservation guidelines.

Country Cottages and Traditional Residences:

Wood windows are the go-to choice for country cottages, farmhouses, and traditional homes due to their ability to blend seamlessly with rustic and organic aesthetics.
The warm, natural appearance of wood complements the earthy, nature-inspired feel of these properties.

Eco-friendly or Sustainable Builds:

Wood is often seen as a more sustainable option for those aiming to reduce their carbon footprint. If your home is an eco-friendly build, wooden windows may be the best choice.
Many wood options come from sustainably managed forests, and the natural insulating properties of wood can help reduce energy consumption. Additionally, wood is a renewable resource, making it a great choice for those looking for sustainable solutions.

Aluminium vs Wood Window Styles

Both aluminium and wood windows are available in a variety of styles, allowing homeowners to choose the best design for their needs and preferences. Here’s a look at some of the most common styles for both materials:

Casement Windows:

Casement windows are versatile and one of the most popular choices for both aluminium and wood frames. They are hinged at the side and open outward like a door, providing excellent ventilation.
Casement windows are energy-efficient, as they seal tightly when closed, helping to reduce heat loss. They suit modern as well as traditional properties.

Sash Windows:

Sash windows are a classic choice for period properties, particularly those with a Victorian or Georgian design. These windows have a traditional appearance, with sliding panels that open vertically.
Wooden sash windows are often preferred in heritage homes due to their historical accuracy, while aluminium sash windows provide a more modern alternative with the same visual appeal and greater durability.

Tilt and Turn Windows:

Tilt and turn windows offer great versatility and functionality. These windows can open both inward and tilt to allow for improved ventilation and ease of cleaning.
Aluminium tilt and turn windows are often easier to maintain compared to wood versions, and they provide excellent security features. This style is suitable for both contemporary and traditional properties looking to combine security with practicality.

Bay & Bow Windows:

Bay and bow windows are popular for creating extra space and allowing more natural light into a room. They are particularly suited to larger properties and can make a striking feature in a room.
Aluminium windows in these styles are low maintenance and offer slimmer frames for larger glass panels, creating an expansive view. Wooden bay windows offer a more classic and timeless look and suit period homes perfectly.

Maintenance & Longevity

Factor	Aluminium Windows	Wood Windows
Cleaning	Low maintenance, wipe with cloth	Requires regular cleaning and repainting
Wear and Tear	Resistant to weather, no warping	Prone to warping, rotting, and insect damage
Longevity	30-50 years	15-30 years with maintenance

Cleaning

Aluminium windows are relatively low maintenance when it comes to cleaning. They generally only need a wipe down with a cloth, as their surfaces are smooth and resistant to dirt accumulation. However, if not cleaned regularly, dirt and grime may build up in the tracks or corners, especially in urban areas.

Wooden windows, on the other hand, require more frequent maintenance. Not only do they need to be cleaned regularly, but paintwork can begin to peel over time. This is particularly common in homes exposed to harsh weather conditions. Periodic repainting is required to maintain their aesthetic appeal and protect them from the elements.

Wear and Tear

Aluminium windows are highly resistant to wear and tear. They do not warp, rot, or suffer from insect damage, making them ideal for regions with harsh weather conditions. Over time, however, their seals may deteriorate, but they are generally less prone to significant damage compared to wood.

Wooden windows require more attention when it comes to wear and tear. They are more prone to rot and insect infestation, especially if not maintained properly. Wooden frames can warp over time if exposed to moisture, which can affect their performance and appearance. Regular treatment and sealing can help prolong their lifespan.

Longevity

Aluminium windows tend to last longer than wood, with a typical lifespan of 30-50 years. They do not require as much maintenance, and their resilience to the elements ensures they remain in good condition for decades.

Wooden windows can last anywhere from 15-30 years depending on the type of wood and the level of care they receive. Regular painting, sealing, and maintenance can extend their lifespan, but they will need to be replaced more often than aluminium windows if not properly cared for.

Costs & Installation

The price of new windows depends on several factors, including size, material, glazing options, and the complexity of installation. In the following section, we’ll compare the average costs associated with aluminium and wooden windows:

Window Type	Aluminium (Cost per window)	Wood (Cost per window)
Casement	£600 – £1,200	£500 – £1,000
Sash	£1,200 – £2,500	£1,000 – £2,200
Tilt & Turn	£700 – £1,500	£600 – £1,300
Bay Window	£2,000 – £4,500	£1,800 – £4,000

Which Is Cheaper?

Wood windows have a lower initial cost but require regular maintenance.
The cost of aluminium windows are more expensive upfront but cheaper to maintain over time.

Installation Requirements & Timeframe

Aluminium windows: Faster installation due to pre-fabrication.
Wood windows: May require more time, especially for custom builds.
Installation time: Typically 1-2 days per window, depending on complexity.

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

Choosing between aluminium vs wood windows depends on:

Budget: Aluminium costs more initially but lasts longer.
Aesthetic preference: Wood offers a classic look, aluminium is modern.
Maintenance capacity: Wood requires upkeep, aluminium is low-maintenance.
Energy efficiency: Wood naturally insulates better, but aluminium can match with the right glazing.

If you’re looking for a long-term, low-maintenance solution with a modern aesthetic, aluminium windows are a great choice. However, if you prefer a classic and warm appearance, wood windows might be the better option.

Aluminium Windows vs Other Materials

If you’re still undecided, comparing aluminium windows to other popular materials can help you make the right decision. Explore these detailed comparisons to better understand your options and choose the best fit for your home:

Aluminium Windows vs uPVC windows: Aluminium and uPVC windows each have unique characteristics. Aluminium offers a sleek, modern look with superior strength, while UPVC is known for its affordability and excellent insulation properties.

Aluclad vs aluminium windows: Aluclad windows combine the durability of aluminium with the natural look of timber, offering a unique aesthetic. In contrast, traditional aluminium windows are renowned for their sleek appearance and low maintenance.

Aluminium vs steel windows: Both aluminium and steel are strong, durable materials, but they have distinct advantages in different areas. Aluminium is lightweight and resistant to corrosion, while steel offers superior strength and is ideal for certain architectural styles..

Get a Free Quote for Aluminium Windows Today!

Looking to upgrade your home with durable, stylish, and energy-efficient aluminium windows? Get a free, no-obligation quote today! Our expert team will provide tailored advice and competitive pricing.

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.

Aluminium vs Wood Windows: A Quick Comparison

Aluminium vs Wood Windows: Which Is Better?