What’s the Difference Between Vinyl and Aluminum Windows?
For decades, fans have debated which is better: “Star Trek” or “Star Wars?” While the passion is real, as anyone who has attended a science fiction convention can attest, the fact is that both fictional worlds bring fantastic things to the table that allow them to appeal to different groups of people. While replacement windows might not generate quite the same amount of fanfare, the difference between vinyl and aluminum windows is similar. Both are great products that can deliver amazing results.
If both products are good, how do you get the best results? Taking a careful look at the qualities of the respective products and matching them with your specific situation is the best way to determine which is right for you.
Material
The most obvious difference between these windows is the material used to create the frames. Aluminum windows are made from aluminum. In contrast, vinyl windows are made from polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. Both aluminum and vinyl are recyclable.
Appearance
When it comes to appearance, there’s no clear winner. Aluminum windows tend to have thinner frames, which can deliver cleaner lines and a crisper, more modern look that many people find incredibly appealing. However, vinyl windows have wider frames that look more like traditional frames, and there’s comfort in familiarity. Vinyl windows have also been more successful in mimicking wood, which is a major plus for homeowners who want the look of wood without the work or high cost.
Durability
Both aluminum and vinyl windows are more durable than windows made from wood, which is part of the reason they’re so popular. They also fend off scratches and cracks well. However, as Bob Vila explains, vinyl windows won’t corrode, and they do an especially exceptional job of resisting dings, bangs, and chips. Plus, if vinyl windows do happen to suffer an injury, the fact that they’re the same color throughout their frames ensures that most minor bumps and bangs remain practically invisible.
Strength
If you purchase high-quality windows, both vinyl and aluminum windows are sturdy products that will deliver years of reliable service under normal circumstances. However, aluminum is a stronger product, as Today’s Homeowner reports. As a result, it may be a better choice for people who live in stormy areas where extra structural support is appreciated for safety. In addition, aluminum frames are a good choice for those who want large expanses of glass. The strength in the frame makes bigger window panes possible.
Energy Efficiency
Modern windows are often designed with several features that make your home more comfortable by keeping interior air inside and exterior air outside. Reviewing labels from the National Fenestration Rating Council and other trusted organizations can help you make smart decisions about the efficiency of a specific window. Of course, aluminum conducts heat easily. Therefore, aluminum windows generally tend to be less energy-efficient than vinyl windows with comparable features.
Maintenance
Wood is inevitably labeled a high-maintenance material. In comparison, vinyl windows are typically dubbed no maintenance products, and aluminum windows are labeled as a low-maintenance option. Vinyl windows do require occasional cleaning, and repairs may be needed if they’re damaged. Aluminum windows also require regular cleaning. In addition, it is helpful to make sure that drain holes are clear and dry off your frames if you notice excessive moisture gathering.
