Thermally broken aluminum windows vs vinyl - Pros and Cons

  

 

Selecting the right windows for one’s home seems like an arduous task!

 

Whether you are setting up a new home or looking at window replacement in your old one, choosing the right material and style for your windows can be a bit of a challenge.

 

You’d rather tuck your head into the warm blanket than stress your mind thinking about what window style would suit your Australian home or commercial property the best!

 

Wood windows used to be quite popular. They can still be found in some homes today, but aluminum and vinyl have mostly replaced wood windows.

 

Customers today have a mind-boggling variety of choices in windows when it comes to different styles, finishes, and materials. Wood windows look charming, but they are no longer in vogue because many advanced alternatives have come up that combine state-of-the-art technology with cutting-edge innovation and modern aesthetics.

 

Both aluminum and vinyl windows are highly popular these days because of their durability, lower maintenance cost, and overall look. Both aluminum and vinyl have certain advantages and disadvantages. When it comes to choosing between the two, it depends on the nature of your property and your specific needs.

 

Thermally broken aluminum windows are a better option than standard aluminum windows because they provide better insulation, condensation control, and energy efficiency.

 

Hello there! If you are confused between aluminum windows and vinyl windows, we are here to help. In this post, we’ll tell you all about the main features of both aluminum and vinyl windows. We will do a detailed comparison of these materials and explain the comparative advantages offered by both.

 

Both vinyl and aluminum windows have their own merits. However, comprehending the differences between the two styles is crucial to making a judicious decision. After going through this post, you’ll certainly be able to make an informed decision regarding the ideal window type for your home or commercial establishment.

 

Also, we offer an eclectic selection of thermally broken aluminum windows in different styles and designs. We manufacture and install all kinds of windows residential and windows commercial including fixed windows, awning windows, sliding windows, tilt, and turn windows, etc.

 

We also offer a varied selection of thermally broken doors and specialize in all kinds of sliding doors giving your home the ultimate safety, security, insulation, and aesthetic appeal.

Vinyl vs Thermally Broken Aluminum Windows Comparative Analysis

In this section, we will evaluate the effectiveness of both aluminum windows and vinyl windows on certain parameters.

 

Based on their respective performance against these parameters, you can decide which style is best for your home or commercial property.

 

1. Appearance Vinyl vs Thermally Broken Aluminum

The overall look of the product is an important criterion when it comes to choosing the right window type.

 

In this area, it’s a bit of a tie between thermally broken aluminum and vinyl windows. Both come in a wide range of sizes, shapes, and colors. A bit of a downside with vinyl windows is that once you choose a color, you have to stick to it. They cannot be repainted.

 

However both vinyl and aluminum provide ample scope for customization and personalization to match the exteriors of your home or office.

 

Vinyl frames give a more traditional look compared to aluminum frames. That is vinyl windows have much wider frames and window sashes. They can also be made to mimic the appearance of traditional wooden windows. If you are after a traditional look, vinyl windows will be a good option. But if you are after a more modern and sleek look, go for aluminum frames.

 

Thermally broken Aluminum window, on the other hand, offers a modern and sleek look that can easily fit in with the contemporary styles of architecture. It is because the nature of the material is such that it allows for thinner profiles.

 

Aesthetic appearance is a subjective category; overall we can say that both thermally broken aluminum and vinyl windows are pleasing to the eye. None of them has a distinct advantage over the other in appearance. It all boils down to your individual preferences.

 

2. Durability Vinyl vs. Thermally Broken Aluminum

Both thermally aluminum windows and vinyl windows have a good range of durability.

 

Overall, vinyl windows score better on this count.

 

Both types of windows are resistant to cracking, scratching, and marring. However, thermally broken aluminum windows are more prone to denting compared to vinyl ones. Vinyl windows are not easily dented.

 

Also, thermally broken aluminum windows are more susceptible to corrosion and fading. Vinyl windows are doubly durable when it comes to chips and dents. In the worst-case scenario, if your window’s frames get damaged, they are less likely to be noticeable. It’s because vinyl window frames are made of the same material throughout. On the contrary, the corrosion and color change that aluminum windows undergo over time will easily show. The enamel finish of these windows is more susceptible to fading after coming in contact with strong sunlight than the dyes used for constructing vinyl frames.

 

It gives vinyl windows an upper edge when it comes to durability.

 

However,  according to experts, both thermally broken aluminum and vinyl windows have a long shelf-life and can function efficiently for decades.

 

3. Strength and Weight Vinyl Windows vs. Thermally Broken Aluminum Windows

Aluminum is the clear winner on this front.

 

It’s a both lightweight and strong material.

 

Thermally broken aluminum windows are generally stronger than vinyl. If you are going for large expanses of glass, aluminum is your ideal bet. These windows can easily accommodate larger units of glass without compromising the integrity of the structure. It makes aluminum ideal for making windows used in commercial spaces where exceptionally large windows are needed. Vinyl seems to be a better choice for home windows.

 

Vinyl windows are less strong than aluminum windows making them less ideal for commercial establishments that need a great degree of structural strength.

 

Though having a high degree of durability, vinyl is a soft material. You might need metal reinforcement or wider frames to support large windows when using vinyl.

 

If you are on the lookout for thermally broken aluminium windows that combine extraordinary strength with excellent insulation and ultra-energy efficiency, reach out to us. Our team of seasoned window experts will guide you and help you select the right windows for your Australian home or commercial property.

 

4. Insulation

Vinyl windows are excellent when it comes to insulation.

 

The nature of the material is such that it ensures minimal heat transfer. Aluminum windows tend to be strong conductors of both heat and cold, thus leading to less effective functioning of both heating and air conditioning.

 

Vinyl is a better insulator than aluminum overall. However, if you go for aluminum windows with thermal breaks, you can get pretty good insulation. The thermal barrier installed within the window frame prevents thermal energy loss, thus minimizing heat transfer.

 

 

Check out our article on HOW DO THERMALLY BROKEN WINDOWS HELP CONTROL CONDENSATION & THERMALLY BROKEN WINDOWS VS NON-THERMALLY BROKEN.
 

 

5. Energy Efficiency Vinyl vs. Thermally Broken Aluminum Windows

Since vinyl ensures optional minimization of heat transfer, their windows tend to be more energy efficient overall, thus reducing your energy bills.

 

Uninsulated aluminum windows score low on the energy efficiency index. Since aluminum is a strong conductor of both cold and heat, their windows lead to the loss of hot air in winter and the entry of hot air from outside during the summer. This places an extra burden on your heating and cooling systems, thus inflating your energy consumption.

 

Aluminum windows with thermal breaks can drastically reduce heat transfer, provide better insulation, and thus optimize energy efficiency. But even they cannot match the quality of energy efficiency provided by vinyl.

 

6. Cost Vinyl vs. Thermally Broken Aluminum Windows

Whether you are looking at buying windows for your new home or improving upon your living space by window replacement, cost is a significant criterion.

 

Generally speaking, windows made of vinyl will be more affordable than their thermally broken aluminum counterparts. That’s because vinyl can be classified as a synthetic material manufactured using polyvinyl chloride or PVC that is easily available and economical to produce. Windows made of thermally broken aluminum, on the other hand, involves higher production costs due to higher expenses involved in procuring raw materials and carrying out the manufacturing process.

 

Going for a vinyl window brings down your window replacement costs significantly. But you should not make the final decision based solely on price. Vinyl windows are certainly cheaper but overall, windows made of thermally broken aluminum are more secure, stronger, and have a longer life than vinyl. They may be pricey but prove to be cost-effective in the long term.

 

7. Maintenance Vinyl vs. Thermally Broken Aluminum Windows

Windows made of both vinyl and aluminum are low maintenance. But windows made of vinyl score higher on this count since they are virtually maintenance-free!

 

Windows made of thermally broken aluminum, on the other hand, are susceptible to condensation leading to the formation of mold or rust. Thus, they need regular cleaning using a special aluminum cleanser. Also, one needs to lubricate their moving parts regularly to prevent any unwanted wear and tear.

 

Windows made of vinyl do not need any staining or painting. All that one needs is soap and water to clear such windows.

 

Final Verdict

 

Every home is unique, and it's up to you what kind of look you want for your living spaces. But generally speaking, windows made of vinyl are highly popular for residential use because they are extremely durable, reasonably priced, and virtually maintenance-free.

 

Windows made of thermally aluminum, on the other hand, are preferred for huge commercial spaces because of the extraordinary strength of aluminum which is great for providing structural support to huge window frames.

 

When you are looking at window replacement, it’s best to consult an expert who can examine your property and recommend the type of windows best suited to that space.

 

You must pay attention to all components of the desired window type during the selection stage. For example, you can improve the acoustic performance of your aluminum or vinyl windows by selecting the right kind of insulated glass unit.

 

It’s important to select the right glass type during the designing stage itself so that your windows can provide a superior quality of safety, security, insulation, and thermal efficiency.

 

If you are looking at getting thermally broken aluminum windows or doors in your Australian home or commercial property but are confused about the selection process, feel free to reach out. We specialize in all kinds of thermally broken doors and windows; our team of experts is available round the clock to give you all the required advice and assistance.