Aluminum Vs. Vinyl: Things To Look For When Choosing a Window Frame

When it comes to replacing your home's windows, it's a smart idea to compare prices beforehand. Aluminum and vinyl are two of the best materials to choose for a window's frame among the numerous possibilities available today.

Both window frame styles have their advantages. Your final buying decision will rely on your needs and preferences. Replacing your impact windows is a significant choice, so you should be aware of what to look for when selecting a frame. Here is the pertinent information.

1. Looks and Curb Appeal

Vinyl

If you want the advantages of employing modern materials that are more resistant to the weather, vinyl is an excellent choice. Vinyl window frames have a polished appearance and are available in a range of colors, in addition to offering the durability of hurricane impact windows.

Aluminum

Aluminum may not have the same appearance as vinyl, but it has a magnificent aspect that enhances curb appeal. Aluminum gives homes a contemporary, streamlined appearance that works well with contemporary architectural forms. In addition, they are readily incorporated into the majority of home styles and enhance the curb appeal.

In terms of curb aesthetic, vinyl and aluminum frames contribute significantly to value. Regarding the look of your impact windows, your decision will mostly depend on your own preferences.

2. Durability

Both vinyl and aluminum frames are durable compared to those made from other materials.

Vinyl window frames are extremely durable and resistant to dents and chips. If small damage occurs, it is typically not particularly noticeable.

Aluminum window frames are constructed to last. They may easily last up to 50 years with proper maintenance; its structure is quite durable.

Aluminum's enduring strength is also highly ideal for hurricane impact windows if you're seeking for long-lasting windows that safeguard your family from extreme weather factors.

3. Maintenance Level

Vinyl frames are basically maintenance-free in terms of upkeep. Aside from routine cleaning, they require no significant care to remain in good condition. Even in coastal regions, deterioration is not a concern. This is due to the fact that they are intended to survive severe weather conditions. Vinyl's resistance to moisture is an additional attractive quality.

Aluminum requires little upkeep. Aside from normal washing and drying, maintaining aluminum windows requires minimal work after installation. In most cases, metal does not require painting or staining. Unless you want to do so, that is.

4. Energy Efficiency

The energy efficiency and thermal performance ratings for vinyl are good. Additionally, it is particularly efficient in reducing heat transmission. If you reside in Florida or another warm climate, you will love these hurricane impact windows; your air conditioning won't escape outside. However, they are constructed of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is not biodegradable, while being incredibly energy-efficient. Some consumers favor products that are ecologically friendly towards the end of their useful lives.

In this regard, aluminum is superior to vinyl since it is significantly more eco-friendly, which helps to compensate for its lower efficiency. Aluminum window frames are significantly less efficient than vinyl because they transfer heat. Nonetheless, this is not an issue for homeowners. Aluminum frames may be supplied with double weatherstripping and interlocking meeting rails, which dramatically improves energy efficiency. Heat and air conditioning remain precisely where they belong, inside, while simultaneously keeping the elements outside.

5. Security

Vinyl windows are not burglar-proof, but they may be simply modified to give your home and its occupants with enhanced security. Vinyl excels at withstanding strong winds and other extreme weather conditions. Aluminum frames are incredibly durable. Whether it's severe weather or intruders, it's far more difficult to break through aluminum impact windows. In addition, they are a wonderful option for homes with larger windows that need additional protection.

Regardless of the sort of frame you pick, the glass used in impact windows significantly increases the level of security.

• Intruders. Burglars have a difficult time penetrating these windows.
• Shattering. Shards of glass won’t go flying, the breakage remains contained.
• Modifications. Both types of windows can be outfitted with locking devices. This allows homeowners to have ventilation while remaining secure from falls or unauthorized entries.
• UV Rays. Impact windows protect people, furnishings, and floors from harmful UV rays.

Overall, both window frame types excel in safeguarding your family from harm.

6. Your Location

In picking between aluminum and vinyl frames, you need also consider your location. As mentioned in our section on energy efficiency, your local climate will play a role. In this regard, vinyl thrives in warmer regions. Abrasion resistance is another factor where aluminum may perform better. Ask your window suppliers which sort of frame is best for your locality while researching window frames. Noise is another geographical influence. Aluminum outperforms vinyl in terms of noise reduction due to its greater density. It will assist to soften sounds if you reside near a busy street or other noisy regions.

New Impact Windows Boosts the Value of Your Home

Vinyl or aluminum window replacement is a great investment. According to Remodeling Magazine, vinyl offers a return on investment of around 67% in Southwest Florida. Aluminum wasn't included in their research, but because it has a long lifespan, is ecologically friendly, and is extremely durable, homeowners find that it also provides a reasonable return on investment.

Investing in either type is risk-free in the long run. Both frame types provide windows with superior hurricane impact performance. Aluminum and vinyl are both meant to last for many years. Regardless of what you purchase, you will receive the most advanced window technology, in addition to the aforementioned advantages. Both types of new hurricane windows increase the value of a property. Regardless of the solution you choose, you can rest easy knowing that your family is well-protected with the perfect installation.