Aluminum vs Timber
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
Timber
A traditional natural material that offers excellent aesthetics, good insulation, and environmental benefits but requires regular maintenance.
£550-£2800
Feature Comparison
| Aluminum | Feature | Timber |
|---|---|---|
£450-£2200 | Price Range | £550-£2800 |
1.8x | Relative Cost | 2.2x |
Very Good | Thermal Efficiency | Very Good |
30-40 years | Average Lifespan | 25-35 years |
High | Maintenance Required | High |
15-25 years | Typical Warranty | 10-30 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
Timber
Advantages
- Beautiful natural appearance
- Excellent insulation properties
- Environmentally friendly
- Suitable for conservation areas
- Repairable and refinishable
Considerations
- Requires regular maintenance
- Can warp or rot if not maintained
- Higher cost than uPVC
- Variable quality depending on wood type
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
Timber:£550-£2800
Long-term Value
Expected Lifespan:30-40 years vs 25-35 years
Maintenance:Very Low vs High
Ready to Choose Your Window Material?
Get personalized quotes from trusted installers and find the best prices for your chosen material