Once a building is ready, the next important thing is choosing the right type of windows and door that will match the design as a whole. As we have several material options available now, the selection becomes a bit more tricky. Aluminum and vinyl are two such popular material that gets used widely in the making of windows.
Aluminum vs Vinyl Windows
The main difference between aluminum and vinyl windows is that aluminum windows mostly get used in commercial buildings for their customizable nature whereas vinyl windows are more popular in homes. No change in climate can affect aluminum windows however vinyl windows do not handle intense changes that occur in the environment.
Aluminum is a strong material that gets used in the making of window frames and its durability takes care of the windows for a long time. However, it requires fixing more often. The texture, colour and shape can get customised and therefore it is very popular in commercial buildings to match the overall modern outlook.
Vinyl is a great durable window frame for home use. It gives the traditional look of wood-frame but it is not feeble like wood. It can withstand any sort of climate although it is not as strong as aluminum. it requires less maintenance and fixings and repainting it frequently is not possible.
Comparison Table Between Aluminum and Vinyl Windows
| Parameters of Comparison | Aluminum Windows | Vinyl Windows |
| Durability | This type of window is known to be very durable in all seasons. | These windows are durable but they do not handle extreme changes in temperature well. |
| Used in | Aluminum windows are widely popular in commercial buildings. | Vinyl windows are more popular for homes than commercial buildings. |
| Colour | Aluminum windows are customizable when it comes to their colours. | Vinyl windows can not be repainted so once you pick the colour, you can not change it. |
| Maintenance | It requires a minimum amount of maintenance. | Generally, it does not need any maintenance. |
| Expense | Aluminum windows are more costly. | Comparatively, vinyl windows are less expensive. |
What is Aluminum Windows?
Aluminum is a common item to get used in the making of windows. The frame of aluminum gets painted over with a wooden coating thus the look may not appear very realistic. The added coating gives it a smooth finished look.
If you go for powder-coated enamel then the look will seem very modern and thus this window is very popular for commercial buildings. The trendy architecture gets complimented well with aluminum windows. However, these window frames are prone to get dents and corrosion. Its colour gets faded easily too.
Steel or zinc fasteners get used in the making of aluminum windows and with time they get corrode. The situation of corrosion gets worse in the coastal towns that retain salty air. The scorching sun can also cause the colour of the aluminum windows to fade.
Even though aluminum windows are mainly used in commercial buildings, houses with big windows generally opt for this type of window frame. The strength of the aluminum is appropriate to hold such huge windows and also provide impact resistance.
What is Vinyl Windows?
Vinyl window frames are very durable and are capable of bearing dents more efficiently. It gets chosen for homes more than commercial places. These frames are comparatively thicker than aluminum. The texture of this window gets a smooth finish.
If you are looking for a wood-like texture and look but also wants a durable material then vinyl is ideal. It would give a wood-like vibe but better than wood as it is way more durable than wood. Vinyl can stand strongly against dents and corrosion. Vinyl getting damaged is a very rare case.
The cost of vinyl is way less than any other material for making window frames. Also, when it comes to insulation, vinyl windows will prove to be better. Vinyl minimizes heat transfer so it is a good way to improve energy efficiency.
Main Differences Between Aluminum and Vinyl Windows
- Aluminum windows are long-lasting and they are durable in every season. It can withstand any type of climate but vinyl windows, on the other hand, can not bear intense changes in temperature very well.
- Aluminum windows are widely used in commercial buildings and vinyl windows are mostly used in homely buildings.
- Aluminum windows can be taken in any colour and get customized however, vinyl windows can not be repainted so once you select the colour, it can not be changed.
- Aluminium windows require a minimum amount of maintenance but vinyl windows, on the contrary, does not need any maintenance at all.
- Aluminum windows cost way more than vinyl windows, the maintenance cost is also next to none when it comes to vinyl windows.
- Aluminum windows are less energy-efficient and vinyl windows have better energy efficiency.
Conclusion
Marking one product and saying it is better than the rest is always not possible. More often the ideal choice of a product depends on the needs and budget as well as necessities. The same thing is applicable for aluminum windows and vinyl windows. One can not be decided to be better than the other, rather the perfect option will vary on the external factors.
For home usage, vinyl windows do not have any competition but if the buildings are commercial and it needs a tough exterior then aluminum windows should get selected. For home decor, vinyl windows will also cost less but their finishing touch and traditional look will not let you complain.
Both the windows are capable of tolerating scratching, dents and cracking. If you want your window to be extra durable then you should choose vinyl windows because any type of blow over aluminum will expose the raw material under the frame. Therefore the vinyl frames require zero maintenance but aluminum frames will need to get looked after frequently.
References
- http://www.newalbanypreservation.com/uploads/File/Real%20Cost%20of%20Replacement%20Windows.pdf
- https://www.osti.gov/biblio/10133686