Vinyl Windows vs. Aluminum Windows. Which One is Better?
The time has come to replace your windows. Whether you just bought your house, are in the process of remodeling, or your windows are just plain old, one question that comes to mind for homeowners is what type of windows should I get? More specifically, should I get vinyl windows or aluminum windows? With so many options and brands available in the market, it can get confusing so I will attempt to settle the debate and declare a winner once and for all
Vinyl windows and aluminum windows both come with their own pros and cons. The built quality will vary by manufacturer and price, however, there are a number of things to keep in mind when deciding what option is best for you.
VINYL WINDOWS: PROS & CONS
PROS
In recent years, vinyl framed windows have skyrocketed in popularity due to their affordable price and longevity. Vinyl material is very strong, relatively easy to maintain, will not corrode, and has incredible thermal protection. Vinyl is also lightweight in nature meaning vinyl windows won’t get heavy or stuck while opening and closing them. Vinyl windows can be formed to almost any shape and size which is part of the reason why it’s a great option for residential or commercial replacement window projects. The most common color for vinyl windows is white, however different manufacturers offer different color options.
Retrofit vinyl windows are one of the most common types of replacement windows available. These windows come with an attached outer frame that sits flush with the stucco wall of the house. This design makes the windows stand out giving your home an enhanced appearance.
To sum it up, vinyl windows are a great choice because:
Most Affordable
Strength/Durability
Low Maintenance
Will Not Corrode
Thermal Protection
Enhanced Appearance
CONS
Although vinyl windows are the most popular option for replacement windows, it’s not all sunshines and rainbows. There are some disadvantages to consider when choosing vinyl windows depending on where you live and where you get them from.
First, let’s talk about quality. Not all vinyl windows are created equal. Most vinyl windows come with a protective sealant that reflects UV rays off the window thus increasing the longevity of the window. However, not all manufacturers utilize protective sealants on their window products and if you are located in an area with high sun exposure, vinyl windows without some sort of UV protection can result in discoloration or a yellowish fade in the window profile.
Another thing to consider when purchasing vinyl windows is the color. This is important to consider if you live in areas of high sun exposure. As mentioned before, the most common color for vinyl windows is the default white. Any color other than white is sprayed on or laminated with a colored film. Living in areas with high heat will result in color fading of the window. For that reason, colored vinyl windows will last about 10-15 years before color fading begins to appear.
To sum it up, some disadvantages of vinyl windows are:
Material quality varies
Frames without UV protectant can yellow over time
Color other than white will fade within 10-15 years
ALUMINUM WINDOWS: PROS & CONS
PROS
Aluminum is a very strong material. It’s stronger than vinyl meaning it’s a great choice for large windows or sliding doors that require heavy glass to sit on. Aluminum windows are a great choice for homeowners who want a true authentic colored frame. Unlike vinyl, aluminum goes through a process of anodization which permanently locks in the color of choice into the frame.
Modern aluminum windows also have the ability to be fabricated with a smaller frame and more visible glass area. This is possible because once again, aluminum has superior strength that allows for a smaller frame, giving the home a modern and open appearance.
To sum it up, aluminum windows are a great choice because:
Superior strength and durability
True color finishes
Best frame for large windows or doors
Smaller frame option for modern aesthetics
CONS
Now it’s time for the flip side. As with anything in life there’s two sides to every coin, this includes aluminum windows. Aluminum is a metal, which means it is subject to corrode over time. This is especially true if you live by a coastal region. The salty atmosphere of the beach and the aluminum frame on the window do not go well together.
Aluminum is also a great conductor. This means that the transmittance of temperatures from the outside to the inside is more of a concern with aluminum windows compared to vinyl windows. Modern replacement aluminum windows come with thermal barriers to avoid this problem but designs vary by manufacturer so it is important to keep this in mind when choosing aluminum windows.
To sum it up, some disadvantages of aluminum windows are:
Corrosion (Especially near coastal regions)
More susceptible to heat/cold transmittance
And the winner is…
This is going to come as a shocker but the true winner is quality. There is a wide variety of window manufacturers all with different price points for their windows. Both vinyl and aluminum windows are a great choice depending on how much you are willing to spend. If you choose the cheapest option available for a vinyl window, you will most likely receive the cheapest vinyl material with no UV protectant that could very possibly yellow and expand/contrast the window over time. Likewise if you get the cheapest aluminum window available, it may not have a thermal barrier for maximum insulation meaning outside temperatures could very well transfer inside.
Generally speaking, you want to look for windows that are going to enhance the appearance of your home and also offer durability backed by a lifetime warranty. That way you can be assured that your windows are guaranteed to last for a good period of time. Replacement vinyl and aluminum windows both will increase the energy efficiency of your home as well as your property value. At the end of the day, either option is a great investment for your home if the quality is there.
If you’d like more information on windows or are looking to replace your windows, feel free to contact us and schedule a free in-home consultation with one of our sales representatives by clicking on the link below. We’d love to be part of your project and help get your home one step closer to your dream vision.