uPVC windows vs aluminium windows

When starting your double-glazing journey, it’s easy to feel overwhelmed with information and options. With so many different companies recommending a variety of window and door framing options, how do you know which is best? There are a number of things to consider when choosing a framing material, such as cost, maintenance and appearance. In Australia, the two most popular options for framing are timber and aluminium, with uPVC being the pick for more energy & acoustic conscious clients. In this blog we are going to compare aluminium to uPVC, helping you to understand the differences and advantages. Read on to find out more!What is uPVC?So, let’s start with uPVC – what is it, and why is it used as a framing material for double-glazing? uPVC, also known as unplasticized polyvinyl chloride and is extremely firm. Because of its durability, uPVC provides a long-lasting and dependable framing support for double-glazed products. The support provided doesn’t bend or flex overtime, due to its durability. uPVC is also BPA-free, and is used to make medical and dental equipment! uPVC is internationally acclaimed for its many uses, and only recently has grown in popularity within the building community here in Australia. Designers and builders alike are beginning to understand the many benefits of using uPVC in a number of products, such as cladding.The quality of the uPVC you use is as important as the product itself. When purchasing for Australian use, it is worth staying clear of uPVC manufactured for a less demanding climate, like that in Europe. By choosing an Australian made uPVC, you can guarantee yourself a quality, long-lasting product.What is Aluminium Framing?Aluminium framing is the most commonly used framing material – alongside timber – and it is a very different material in comparison to uPVC. Aluminium is a light-weight metal with a low corrosion rate, often used as it can be easily worked into whatever shape you need. Like uPVC, it is also an extremely strong material.In Australia, it is more common to find double-glazing companies opting for aluminium as it has been popular for a longer period of time, and is a durable and cheap option. However, there are a number of pitfalls when it comes to the longevity and maintenance of aluminium; aluminium may rust and rot, and most importantly is a conductor of heat which is not what you want from your windows during the warmer months.What are the Disadvantages of Aluminium?There are a number of disadvantages to using aluminium framing on your double-glazed windows. Aluminium doesn’t provide a completely airtight fit, whereas uPVC does. This, in turn, can make maintaining the temperature inside your home much more difficult. Combined with its heat retention qualities, as mentioned above, aluminium can make it increasingly difficult to stay cool in those warmer months without needing to have your cooling on constantly. The energy efficiency of aluminium is very low.Aluminium does have the potential to last many years. However, in the Australian climate, aluminium will need constant maintenance to ensure it doesn’t erode or rust away. Not only does this maintenance take up your time and resources, it also means you’ll constantly be wondering when the next touch-up needs to be done; an unnecessary added stress. Aluminum often causes condensation problems in your home.What Makes uPVC the Best Option for Double-glazing?There are many benefits to opting for uPVC frames in your home or office. uPVC provides quality insulation for your home all year round, both for the temperature of your home and for any potential noise pollution. Your energy bill will be reduced as a result, with less of a need for cooling in those Summer months, and heating during Winter.Australian made uPVC can withstand the UV rays Australian’s face regularly, and don’t need maintenance to maintain their quality. They won’t rot or rust; all they require is a wipe down with soapy water every now and then. Lasting upwards of 30 years, it’s worth investing in a product that doesn’t need your constant time and attention.uPVC is durable, low maintenance, environmentally friendly and stylish. It offers a high quality result for any home or build.Thermotek Windows & Doors and uPVCAt Thermotek Windows & Doors, we stand behind the benefits of using uPVC framing. Our uPVC frames comprise multiple Fusion Welded air chambers, resulting in a highly sealed frame with a superior level of energy efficiency. With added Dual Thermoplastic Elastonomer seals, the thermal and acoustic properties are enhanced to eliminate any airflow or noise pollution. All our windows are filled with Argon Gas, to ensure your home or office stays insulated to the highest level.We offer a wide range of windows and doors, all with uPVC framing. Our double-glazed windows and doors are ideal for that new project, or as a replacement for your current windows to help improve the quality of your home.Australian Made Double-glazed WindowsWe manufacture our products in Australia, for Australian’s. At Thermotek, we pride ourselves on the quality and consistency of your products, from the first point of contact through the lifetime of your windows. Our uPVC is made to withstand Australian conditions, and our windows provide years of quality insulation for you and your loved ones. We want to offer a sustainable, environmentally friendly option for our customers.Contact us today to find out more about our range of double-glazing windows. Alternatively, reach out to book a viewing at our Melbourne Showroom, where you can view our wide range of uPVC framing options.