slimlineglazing

Aluminium Frames vs Wooden vs UPVC Patio Door Frame Showdown

There’s a raging debate going on right now in the glazing industry; which material is best for patio doors and window frames? Advocates of wood, uPVC and aluminium get quite heated about their favourite!

Here at Slimline Glazing we think aluminium glazing frames pips both wood and uPVC to the post, but we don’t want you to take our word for it. Let’s take a look at the reasons why we’re such strong supporters of aluminium, then you can make up your own mind!


Aluminium Frames Are Slim, Lightweight and Strong

Contemporary aluminium frames are not just strong, they’re also incredibly lightweight... hence manufacturers of jumbo jets utilise it extensively. Because of this, aluminium frames are able to support extra weight and can be up to 3.5 x stronger than uPVC. Yet the aluminium frames are slim, giving extra space for glazing without the need for a bigger hole.

The result? More light filters through to your living space.

Aluminium Frames Are More Durable

As Aluminium is such a strong material, it’s not surprising that heat and fire do not touch it. It keeps its shape in high temperaturesand last longer. With such great durability aluminium frames also withstand heavy weathering and even stand up to notoriously tough coastal conditions.

In short, aluminium last longer and does not warp, rot or corrode.

Aluminium Frames Are More Aesthetically Pleasing

Gone are the days when aluminium came in dull silver only. Now aluminium patio doors can be manufactured in a large variety of colours, making aluminium a truly versatile option. Aluminium frames also benefits from a thinner profile, greater design flexibility and can be an option for listed buildings or conservation areas where uPVC has been rejected.

Not only that, but the colour lasts and lasts. It doesn’t discolour, rust or peel and requires less maintenance. As a result it comes with a long guarantee, giving you great peace of mind.

Aluminium Frames Offer The Best Security

An aluminium frameprovides good security naturally through its strength and durability. As an added bonus, the latest technology in locking systems can also be built into aluminium frames without compromising the design and look of the thin frame.

Who knew safety came in such a good looking frame?

Aluminium Frames Are Environmentally Friendly

As a naturally plentiful substance, aluminium is more environmentally friendly to build. 8% of earth’s crust is made of aluminium bauxite, and 94% is harvested in non-forest areas, ensuring the environmental impact of mining is low, as well as being fully sustainable.

Aluminium is also easy to recycle, as only 5% of the total energy used to build frames from scratch is needed for recycling. The other good news is that aluminium can be recycled over and over again – unlike wood or uPVC.

All of this means an aluminium patio door system’s ecological footprint is small and has a high Life Cycle Assessment rating. On top of that, it’s non-toxic.

Aluminium Frames Are Energy Efficient

Contrary to popular opinion, aluminium patio door frames do not lose heat. Although it has a high energy conductivity, little is lost through frame material by combining it with a thermal break. This means it becomes very energy efficient, whereas uPVC absorbs heat and cold into the frame. This change of temperature can cause the material to break down over time.

Aluminium, on the other hand, is thermally stable, so doesn’t shrink or expand with changes in temperature or humidity.

So there you have it – why we think aluminium wins over uPVC for patio doors and window frames. A sleek slim-framed style, durable and environmentally friendly – all in one package!

It doesn’t get much better than that!


Which is yours and why?

Aluminium Frames
Wooden
UPVC

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