Are PVCu Windows Better Than Aluminium?

If you are in the market for a new set of windows or even just a small number of replacements and weighing up your options, you will probably have come across the age-old debate of whether aluminium or PVCu windows are better. This is not a new discussion and one that riles up both sides of the debate, with the aluminium faithful staking their claims that their choice of window is better and the PVCu offering very much the same argument in return.

Which is better, though? When faced with this kind of question, it’s best to take a more rounded and balanced approach to discovering the answer. Because if you choose to listen to either side of the debate, their reasons are heavily biased.

To help you out, therefore, in the following post, we have tried to help you come to a more informed decision about which is best for you and whether you should opt for PVCu windows or aluminium ones. To do this, we will take a reasonably thorough look at both window options. We will look at both kinds of windows in some very key areas that you should always consider when choosing windows, such as security, durability, strength, thermal insulation and soundproofing, the aesthetics and installation.

Which is More Secure? PVCu or Aluminium Windows

Interestingly, this is the only area where PVCu and aluminium windows are equally just as secure and safe. So, if the decision was solely based on how much protection the windows you choose will provide, you would be best looking at the rest of this post to discover ways they really differentiate.

Both offer modern locking and safety mechanisms, so you can keep your family, property and belongings safe from any would-be intruders and criminals.

Which Lasts Longer? PVCu or Aluminium Windows?

As windows represent a huge investment financially, you will obviously want to make sure that your money goes as far as it can. Although aluminium windows technically will last a lot longer than their PVCu counterparts, they are a lot more expensive. So, you really need to consider whether you want to save money in the long run or save money upfront.

Which Offers the Best Thermal Insulation and Soundproofing? PVCu or Aluminium Windows?

Windows, like doors, are there to finish off a home and make it look normal, but they also provide protection against the outside world, both in terms of the adverse weather conditions and noise. So, when choosing the best windows for your home and lifestyle, you need to consider these aspects too.

No-one wants to spend all that money on windows if they are not going to keep the cold out or the noise you generate in and the noise from the outside world out. Are they?

Although aluminium is good in both regards, PVCu has been proven to be more effective at thermal insulation and soundproofing. So, with PVCu windows you will have the best insulation from the noise coming from outside the property and will enjoy warmer winters.

Which Looks Better? PVCu or Aluminium Windows?

As windows can affect how your property looks and not just how warm and comfortable it is, you need to consider which option between aluminium and PVCu looks the best. Although many people prefer the metallic look of aluminium and feel PVCu windows often look a little on the fake side, there have been modern developments that change all that.

Contemporary PVCu windows nowadays can be created to accurately replicate the look of traditional timber windows. So, if you are looking for a more classic look for your windows, PVCu windows are probably going to look a lot better than aluminium alternatives.

Which is Easiest to Install? PVCu or Aluminium Windows

As installation of windows can cause upset and disruption to your daily life, you will probably want to look at getting the window option that doesn’t cause as many problems for your lifestyle. While modern aluminium windows installation techniques mean it is a lot quicker than it used to be, it still takes a lot longer than PVCu windows take to install.

Not only that, but PVCu windows are a lot easier to install too.

So, it’s easy to see that although aluminium windows are in many ways a good option for the windows in your property, when you consider the above points, PVCu windows may be a better choice all round. Not only are they less expensive, but they are easier and quicker to install, better at providing thermal and sound insulation can better simulate the authentic and natural look of natural timber.

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