Window and door materials: PVCu vs. Aluminium

Windows and doors are the entry ways to your home, so when it’s time to replace them, it’s important to choose durable and resistant materials that will stand the test of time. The argument of which material is better to use for windows and doors between PVCu and aluminium has been in debate ever since aluminium became a popular window manufacturing material.

Recent figures[1] suggest that the number of PVCu window and doors fabricators are declining, or have begun to offer aluminium systems, with a massive 40% increase in firms who offer both PVCu and aluminium products. In 2015, almost 60% of bifold doors in the UK were made of aluminium, compared to only 27% made from PVCu, showing the rise and popularity of aluminium in UK households. However, both materials have been trusted for use in construction for decades due to their durability and resistance.

Why use PVCu?

PVCu (unplasticised Poly Vinyl Chloride) has been used in window and door manufacturing since the 1980’s, before aluminium was considered. It has been a material that has long been considered durable and strong, making it perfect for protecting your home along with these reasons: 

• It is weather resistant
• It is a low maintenance material – a wipe down will make it clean and fresh
• It does not biologically decompose
• It can withstand strong force
• It is sustainable due to allowing itself to be reshaped under hot temperatures

PVCu is much stronger than timber, and only requires replacing after 20 to 30 years and prove to be just as secure as aluminium, however security also depends on the choice of locks chosen to be used on your windows and doors. However, PVCu is a substantially better soundproofing material than aluminium, and is slightly more efficient at blocking out exterior noise.

Why use Aluminium?

Aluminium is a highly durable material that can last up to 45 years when used in home fixtures like bi fold doors from Quickslide. This material is the second most common metal used in construction after steel, and due to its ductility, it can be shaped and moulded for different purposes. It’s sleek, modern and minimal in style is often preferred in manufacturing fixtures for buildings along with these benefits:

• Unlike other metals, aluminium will not rust, so there will never be any unsightly rust patches and will stay good as new for the duration of their lifespan.
• Provide more natural light
• Lightweight and strong, so it can support large glass panes
• 100% recyclable
• Corrosion resistant

Although it can be more expensive that PVCu, aluminium may add more value to your home in the long run due to its longer lifespan. Choose windows and doors that suit your style and budget from a selection of designs from Quickslide.