Aluminium vs uPVC windows: What you need to know

• 4 April, 2025|
• News

In Summary

• Choose aluminium if you’re looking for a stylish, durable option that allows for more natural light intake
• Choose uPVC if you want a budget-friendly, low-maintenance window with great thermal performance.
• Warwick Development offers both aluminium and uPVC windows in a variety of styles and colours to suit every property.

Aluminium vs uPVC Windows: Which is Best for Your Home?

In short, if you’re looking for a stylish, modern look with strong durability, aluminium windows might be the right choice. On the other hand, if you’re after an affordable, low-maintenance option with great energy efficiency, uPVC windows may be better for you.

In this blog, we’ll explore the key differences between aluminium and uPVC windows, highlighting their benefits and helping you decide which is best for your home.

Energy efficient windows work effectively to reduce heat transfer

What do I need to know about Aluminium Windows?

The demand for aluminium windows has shot up in recent times, and for good reason. An incredibly durable metal, aluminium remains a popular choice for homeowners looking for a beautiful modern aesthetic with plenty of benefits. Not only does aluminium offer excellent strength and security, but it’s also incredibly energy-efficient when designed with thermal breaks.

One of the key benefits of aluminium windows is their lengthy lifespan (around 40-50 years, so it’s fair to call them a long-term investment that will only increase the value of your property.)

Aluminium is a strong, lightweight material that doesn’t warp, crack, or fade like other materials might. This makes it ideal for as a frame material for areas with unpredictable weather (such as the United Kingdom unfortunately).

Aluminium windows also come in a wide range of colours, including metallic and wood-effect finishes when you choose Warwick Development, which means they can be tailored to suit both modern and traditional properties.

Aluminium windows have slim sightlines, perfect for inviting more natural light into your home.

What you need to know about uPVC Windows

uPVC windows are the UK’s most popular frame choice for residential properties. Known for their affordability, versatility, and low maintenance, uPVC windows are manufactured using a plastic-based material that is highly resistant to weathering and damage.

One of the main reasons for the popularity of uPVC is its ability to be mass-produced, which helps to keep costs low. Plus, uPVC windows are available in a variety of styles, from classic casement windows to contemporary flush sash windows.

Another key benefit of uPVC is its excellent thermal performance. uPVC frames feature multi-chambered profiles that help to trap heat, which can improve your home’s energy efficiency and reduce your heating bills. They don’t need to be finished in the standard white colour you may associate the material with either, as Warwick Development offer uPVC windows in a whole host of shades and woodgrain effects.

uPVC windows are are available in a huge range of colours.

Choose Aluminium if…

1. You want high strength and durability
   Aluminium window frames are incredibly strong, making them a great choice if you want secure, long-lasting windows. The strength of aluminium means that the frames can be made thinner, allowing for larger panes of glass and better natural light intake.
2. You’re looking for a modern aesthetic
   The look of aluminium windows makes them a great choice for modern homes, thanks to their sleek, slimline frames. They offer a contemporary look that complements minimalist designs, and the wide range of colours, including matte, metallic, and even wood-effect finishes, ensures they’ll suit any style.
3. You need low maintenance
   Aluminium frames require very little upkeep. They are naturally resistant to rust, rot, and corrosion, so you won’t need to worry about regular painting or maintenance.
4. You’re interested in superior energy efficiency
   Despite their strength, aluminium windows can be very energy-efficient. Thermal break technology is used to reduce heat loss, helping to maintain comfortable temperatures inside your home and lower your energy bills.

Choose uPVC if…

1. You want an affordable, budget-friendly option
   uPVC windows are generally more affordable than aluminium windows. They’re a great choice if you’re working with a tighter budget but still want good-quality, energy-efficient windows.
2. You prefer a low-maintenance option
   Like aluminium, uPVC windows require minimal maintenance. They won’t warp, rot, or require regular painting. They’re also easy to clean, making them a practical choice for busy households.
3. You want to reduce energy bills
   uPVC windows are designed with multi-chambered profiles, which help to trap heat and reduce heat loss – one of their main benefits. This makes them an energy-efficient option, keeping your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer, ultimately saving you money on your energy bills.

Both options are available in a variety of window styles when you choose Warwick Development.

Aluminium Windows from Warwick Development

At Warwick Development, we offer a variety of high-performing aluminium windows. Our Alitherm range includes multiple systems that suit both modern and traditional properties. Whether you choose casement windows, heritage windows, or flush windows, all of our aluminium windows come with over 200 colour options, including metallic and wood grain effects. We also offer a 25-year guarantee on our aluminium windows, so you can have peace of mind knowing your investment will last.

Our aluminium windows also feature advanced security features, with multi-point locking systems and PAS 24 security accreditation. Whether you’re updating your home or working on a new build, our aluminium windows are designed to meet all the latest industry standards for both security and energy efficiency.

uPVC Windows from Warwick Development

If you’re looking for energy-efficient uPVC windows, Warwick Development has a wide selection of high-performing options. From casement windows to vertical sliders, all of our uPVC windows are made using high-quality Eurocell profiles and feature multi-chambered frames for optimal thermal performance.

Our uPVC windows are available in a choice of over 30 colours, including realistic woodgrain finishes, and are backed by a 10-year guarantee. Whether you’re installing uPVC windows in a new build or renovating an existing property, our windows will improve both the appearance and performance of your home.

Our products are backed by a 10-year guarantee.

Who Are Warwick Development?

Warwick Development is a Sheffield-based manufacturer and supplier of uPVC and aluminium glazing products. With over 30 years of experience, we pride ourselves on offering high-quality windows and doors to both the trade and homeowners. Our products are all FENSA registered and come with various industry accreditations, including PAS 24 and BSI.

We offer a free nationwide delivery service for trade customers and provide a full design and installation service within a 45-mile radius of our Sheffield headquarters. If you’re looking for high-quality uPVC or aluminium windows with strong security levels, get in touch with us today for a free, no-obligation quote.

FAQs

Q: Which is more energy-efficient, aluminium or uPVC new windows?
Both aluminium and uPVC windows are energy-efficient, but uPVC generally offers better thermal performance due to its multi-chambered profiles. However, modern aluminium windows with thermal breaks can offer comparable energy efficiency.

Q: Are aluminium windows more expensive than uPVC?
Yes, aluminium windows tend to be more expensive than uPVC windows. However, they offer greater durability and aesthetic appeal, which may justify the higher initial cost in the long run.