Compare aluminium windows and uPVC windows in 2025. Discover which frame type offers the best value, efficiency, and style for your home.
What You’ll Learn:
- How aluminium and uPVC windows compare side by side
- Which window material performs best in real-life tests
- How to decide between aluminium and uPVC for your home
- Why buying direct from GFD Homes saves time and money
(Estimated Reading Time: 5-6 Minutes)

The Big Decision: Aluminium Windows or uPVC Windows?
Upgrading your windows should be exciting — not confusing. But once you start comparing frame materials, you’ll find everyone has an opinion. Some say aluminium windows are unbeatable for modern style and durability, while others swear by the affordability and insulation of uPVC windows.
So, which one is right for your home?
This guide breaks down the real differences between aluminium and uPVC windows — no jargon, no marketing fluff. You’ll see clear comparisons on price, energy efficiency, design, and lifespan, all backed by live data from GFD Homes.
By the end, you’ll know exactly which option suits your budget, your property style, and your long-term goals.
Let’s settle the aluminium vs uPVC debate once and for all.
Aluminium Windows & uPVC Windows Comparison Matrix
| Type | From Price | Frame Material | Thermal Performance (U-Value) | Colour Options | Lifespan | Security Rating | Maintenance | Warranty | Standout Feature |
| Aluminium (Smart Alitherm / Heritage) | £450 per unit | Aluminium (thermally broken) | 1.2–1.4 W/m²K | 200+ RAL + dual-colour | 40+ years | PAS 24 / SBD | Wipe-clean, rust-free | 10 Years | Slim sightlines and modern aesthetics |
| uPVC (Standard & EnergyPlus) | £325 per unit | Rigid uPVC multi-chamber | 1.2–1.4 W/m²K | White, Grey, Black, Woodgrain | 25–30 years | PAS 24 | Wipe-clean, low care | 10 Years | Excellent value and insulation |
Example Products and Prices
| Product | Type | Average Price | View Product |
| Smart Alitherm 400 Aluminium Window | Aluminium | £450 | View Smart Windows › |
| Standard uPVC Casement Window | uPVC | £325 | View uPVC Range › |
(Pricing based on small casement size; custom quotes update live to the millimetre.)
Aluminium Windows vs uPVC Windows – The Best For Comparison
Best for Slim Frames & Light:
Aluminium – Sleek, architectural profiles allow maximum glass area and sharper lines; ideal for modern extensions or large openings.
Best for Affordability:
uPVC – Starting around £325, uPVC wins on budget while still offering superb insulation.
Best for Colour Choice:
Aluminium – Over 200 RAL colours, including dual-colour and textured finishes, versus the limited palette of uPVC.
Best for Energy Efficiency:
Draw — Both Perform Strongly. Aluminium with modern thermal breaks now matches uPVC multi-chamber designs on insulation (around 1.3 U-Value).
Best for Durability:
Aluminium – A 40-year lifespan, fully recyclable, resistant to warping and UV damage.
Best for Traditional Homes:
uPVC – Perfect for classic aesthetics with timber-effect foils and chunky profiles that suit older properties.
Best for Contemporary Design:
Aluminium – The go-to for minimalist architecture, matching bifolds and sliders seamlessly.
Best for Low Maintenance:
Both excel – no painting, sanding, or varnish; just wipe clean.
Best Overall Performance:
Aluminium (Modern Systems) – The gap between aluminium and uPVC has closed; today’s thermal-broken frames combine style and efficiency better than ever.
Technical Comparison
| Feature | Aluminium | uPVC |
| Material Core | Aluminium + polyamide thermal break | uPVC multi-chamber profile |
| Glazing Options | Double / Triple / Laminated / Solar | Double / Triple |
| Colour Range | 200+ RAL colours | Limited range |
| U-Value | 1.2–1.4 W/m²K | 1.2–1.4 W/m²K |
| Recyclability | 100% recyclable | Partial |
| Lifespan | 40+ years | 25–30 years |
| Maintenance | Wipe clean | Wipe clean |
| Security | PAS 24 / SBD | PAS 24 |
| Cost | £450+ | £325+ |
Choosing Between Aluminium Windows and uPVC Windows
Go Aluminium if you:
- Want slim sightlines and modern design.
- Are matching other aluminium products (bifolds, sliders, roof lanterns).
- Value long-term durability and colour flexibility.
Go uPVC if you:
- Are upgrading on a budget.
- Live in a traditional property.
- Want an efficient, low-cost solution with minimal maintenance.
Why Buy Direct from GFD Homes
Ordering direct keeps the warranty and purchase protection in your name — not your contractor’s.
If something ever goes wrong, you’ll deal directly with GFD Homes, not a third-party installer.
You’ll Get:
- Instant online pricing (accurate to the mm).
- Nationwide delivery.
- Access to expert aftercare.
- 10-year manufacturer warranty.
Summary: Aluminium Windows & uPVC Windows – Clear Views and Even Clearer Choices
You now know:
- What sets aluminium and uPVC apart.
- How their thermal ratings and lifespans compare.
- Which material suits your budget, home type, and design goals.
Whether you’re chasing architectural precision or cost-effective efficiency, GFD Homes helps you compare, customise, and order online with total transparency — no jargon, no pushy sales calls, just honest advice and exact pricing.
🛒 Browse the full collection at www.gfdhomes.co.uk
📞 Or call 01642 309576 for expert guidance and a no-pressure quote.
In a rush? Why not contact us via Whatsapp
Browse Our Articles
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- Trade windows: looking for trade prices? Visit our trade site, The Trade Village
FAQ’s
1. Are aluminium windows more expensive than uPVC windows?
Yes — aluminium windows generally cost more upfront due to higher manufacturing and material costs. However, their longer lifespan and durability often make them a better long-term investment.
2. Which is more energy efficient: aluminium or uPVC windows?
Modern aluminium windows now feature thermal breaks that significantly improve insulation, putting them almost on par with multi-chambered uPVC windows. Both can achieve excellent U-values if properly glazed.
3. How long do aluminium windows last compared to uPVC windows?
An aluminium window can last up to 40 years or more, while a uPVC window typically lasts around 25–30 years before showing signs of wear or discolouration.
4. Can aluminium windows match traditional home styles?
Absolutely. While aluminium windows are often associated with modern homes, they can be powder-coated in woodgrain finishes or heritage colours to complement period properties.
5. Which is easier to maintain — aluminium or uPVC?
Both are low-maintenance options. Simply wipe them clean with soapy water. Aluminium won’t warp or discolour over time, while uPVC may require occasional care to prevent fading.

