Aluminum vs Composite
Compare window materials to make the best choice for your home
Aluminum
A strong, lightweight metal material that offers a sleek, modern appearance with thin frames and excellent durability.
£450-£2200
Composite
A hybrid material combining the benefits of multiple materials, usually with a timber core and aluminum exterior for low maintenance and good insulation.
£600-£3000
Feature Comparison
| Aluminum | Feature | Composite |
|---|---|---|
£450-£2200 | Price Range | £600-£3000 |
1.8x | Relative Cost | 2.4x |
Excellent | Thermal Efficiency | Excellent |
30-40 years | Average Lifespan | 30-45 years |
Low | Maintenance Required | Low |
15-25 years | Typical Warranty | 20-30 years |
Detailed Comparison
Aluminum
Advantages
- Extremely durable
- Slim frames for more glass area
- Modern appearance
- Low maintenance
- Will not rot, warp or crack
Considerations
- Poor thermal insulation unless thermally broken
- Conducts cold
- Higher cost than uPVC
- Industrial appearance not suitable for period properties
Composite
Advantages
- Combines advantages of timber and aluminum
- Excellent thermal performance
- Low maintenance exterior
- Premium appearance
- Long lifespan
Considerations
- Highest cost option
- Limited suppliers and installers
- Repairs can be complex
- Heavy
Our Recommendation
Choose Aluminum if:
You're looking for the most cost-effective option with poor to good (with thermal break) thermal efficiency
Budget Considerations
Aluminum:£450-£2200
Composite:£600-£3000
Long-term Value
Expected Lifespan:30-40 years vs 30-45 years
Maintenance:Very Low vs Low
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