Is Aluminium a Great Material for Residential Windows?
The framing material you choose for residential windows is just as important as the glazing. If you pair window glass with inferior framing material, your windows won't last long or perform as expected. Aluminium is one of the most popular materials used for residential windows. However, it isn't the only choice. Other materials used for windows include wood, vinyl and uPVC. Therefore, you may wonder whether aluminium windows are ideal for your home. Read on to find out the key features that make aluminium an excellent choice for residential windows.
Durable powder coatings
The quality of coatings used in windows determines your home's aesthetics. Unfortunately, conventional water-based paints can crack or peel over time, causing the windows to lose appeal. Therefore, when buying windows, avoid painted frames. Opt for modern aluminium frames that are finished through a process known as powder coating.
Powder coating is a dry finishing process that involves applying electrostatically charged powder particles to the metal. The particles fuse with the metal to create a smooth, durable finish. When applied correctly, the powder coatings don't flake, peel or bubble. Therefore, your windows will maintain their beautiful appearance for a long time.
Insulation and energy efficiency features
Windows account for a significant percentage of the heat lost or gained from a house. Therefore, to achieve energy-efficient windows, you need to use low-emissivity (low-E) glass or double-glazed glass. However, note that window frames also contribute to heat exchange. Therefore, pairing your high-efficiency glass with the wrong material can lead to energy losses.
On its own, aluminium can conduct heat into your home. However, there are energy-efficient aluminium variations for residential windows. For example, aluminium-clad windows have wood inside and aluminium on the outside. This design gives you the best of both worlds. Since wood is a poor heat conductor, it creates an insulation barrier against heat exchange. The aluminium cladding on the outside gives the windows a stylish, contemporary appearance.
Resistance to moisture damage
Despite being energy efficient, wood isn't the best choice for windows due to its susceptibility to moisture damage. When moisture infiltrates natural wood, it weakens it, causing it to warp, splinter or rot. Therefore, if you want durable and moisture-resistant windows, aluminium is an ideal choice.
Aluminium is resistant to moisture damage, making it an excellent alternative to wood. Even aluminium-clad frames don't warp, rot or splinter because the aluminium cladding protects the inner wooden material. Therefore, whether you opt for aluminium or aluminium-clad framing, your new windows will last for a long time and perform excellently in inclement weather.
Pair your aluminium windows with energy-efficient glass for better energy savings. For aluminium glass window installation services, contact a professional contractor.