Aluminium windows and UPVC windows have several differences in terms of material properties, appearance, performance, and cost. Here is a detailed comparison:
- Material properties
- Aluminium: It is a metal material with high strength and hardness, which can withstand greater wind pressure and is not easy to deform. It has good thermal conductivity, but this also means it has relatively poor thermal insulation performance. To improve thermal insulation, broken-bridge aluminium technology is often used, which separates the inner and outer aluminium profiles with a thermal – break strip.
- UPVC: UPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) is a type of plastic material. It has excellent corrosion resistance, is not affected by acid, alkali, and salt substances, and has good aging resistance. Its thermal insulation performance is much better than that of aluminium, helping to reduce heat transfer and energy consumption.
- Appearance
- Aluminium: Aluminium windows have a modern and sleek appearance, giving a sense of high – quality and luxury. They are available in various surface treatments, such as anodizing and powder coating, which can provide a variety of colors and finishes to meet different design requirements.
- UPVC: UPVC windows usually have a more simple and smooth appearance. They are often white, but can also be produced in other colors through special processes. However, the color options may be relatively limited compared to aluminium windows.
- Performance
- Sealing performance: Both aluminium and UPVC windows can achieve good sealing performance when properly installed. Aluminium windows use rubber seals or wool – felt seals, while UPVC windows usually have built – in sealing strips. The sealing performance of high – quality products of both types can effectively prevent the intrusion of wind, rain, and dust.
- Sound insulation performance: In terms of sound insulation, UPVC windows generally perform better due to the excellent sound – absorbing properties of the material. Aluminium windows can also achieve good sound insulation effects by using double – glazed or multi – glazed glass and improving the sealing structure, but overall, UPVC windows are often more advantageous in this regard.
- Cost
- Aluminium: Aluminium windows are relatively more expensive, mainly because the cost of aluminium materials is high, and the manufacturing process and surface treatment also require certain costs. Especially for high – end aluminium – alloy windows with special designs and functions, the price is even higher.
- UPVC: UPVC windows are relatively more affordable. The material cost is lower, and the manufacturing process is relatively simple. They are a cost – effective choice for ordinary consumers.