Are aluminium windows worth it?

Large glass, slim frames, a lifespan measured in decades. Aluminium is increasingly the choice for private homes, new builds and commercial projects. But it is not automatically the right choice for every window. Here is an honest look.

Why people choose aluminium

Aluminium is light, durable and long-lasting, and it allows large, visually light structures. People usually choose it for four reasons: large glazing, slim profiles, modern design and long-term value.

Large glass, slim frames

The strength of aluminium lets a window carry large areas of glass with narrower profiles, without losing stability. The result is more daylight and wider views, which is why aluminium is the natural fit for panoramic windows and large sliding doors.

Freedom in design

There is a wide choice of sizes, shapes and opening types: opening, tilting, sliding and more, depending on the system. You can pick from more than 400 RAL colours and different surface finishes, and the colour inside can differ from the colour outside.

“Aren’t aluminium windows cold?”

Aluminium conducts heat, so for living spaces we use thermally broken profiles. A polyamide insert between the outer and inner parts of the profile forms an insulating barrier. A modern aluminium window offers high thermal insulation, plus protection against wind, water and noise.

Energy efficiency in numbers

The key figure is the Uw value. The lower it is, the less heat the window loses.

• ≈ 1.1 W/m²K: the Latvian standard for residential buildings
• ≤ 0.8 W/m²K: passive house level
• 0.85 W/m²K: as low as Reynaers MasterLine 8 reaches, depending on configuration

How long do they last?

Aluminium windows typically last around 40 to 50 years, compared with around 25 to 30 years for PVC. Aluminium resists UV, temperature swings, rain, wind and mechanical load, and it does not corrode.

What does it cost?

Aluminium usually costs about 30 to 50% more than an equivalent PVC solution. It is worth the extra if you want large glazing, slim profiles, big sliding doors, a modern look, a durable structure and minimal maintenance.

When aluminium is not the answer

Aluminium is not automatically the best choice. If you only need standard-sized windows on a tight budget, PVC can do the job well. We sell aluminium, but not when you do not need it.