Modern construction is about special design and savings in terms of both economy and ecology. Increasingly, projects for self-sufficient buildings that obtain energy from the environment are being considered. Among the elements that influence the energy efficiency of a house, window joinery occupies one of the leading places. So are aluminium windows competitive with wooden or PVC windows?
Durability and aesthetics of aluminium windows
Aluminium joinery is very aesthetically pleasing, regardless of the building it is used in. The shape of the profiles used to make aluminium windows allows for slender and durable windows, as well as patio or balcony doors. The ability to bend profiles allows for custom-made aluminium windows of any shape and very large dimensions.
Although very light, aluminium joinery is very durable and rigid, and also resistant to corrosion and various atmospheric factors.
Lighter profiles put less strain on the fittings, which allows for the construction of large-size structures and has a positive impact on their lifespan and safety.
Aluminium windows can be larger than plastic ones because aluminium profiles can bear heavy loads without damaging the frame, even though they are much lighter than plastic or wooden windows.
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Thermal insulation and resistance to external factors
Aluminium windows have fillings made of high-quality insulating materials, which means that they are just as good as PVC or wooden windows. The heat transfer coefficient of currently available aluminium windows is 0.8-1.0 W/(m2·K)
Insulation of this kind protects the building very well against heat loss, which is why they can also be used in energy-efficient and passive construction.
An important feature of aluminium joinery is its resistance to weather and microbiological factors (it does not grow moss, fungus or mould).
Comfort and safety
Aluminium windows are available in virtually any colour, which makes it easy to match them to the planned architectural solutions, ensuring a modern and stylish design.
Corrosion and weather resistance ensure that the chosen frame colour will remain unchanged for many years to come. In traditional and classic buildings, aluminium windows can have aesthetic wood-effect coatings.
When choosing windows, not only comfort and aesthetics are important, but also safety. That is why special anti-burglary elements and fittings designed for safety structures can be used in aluminium joinery. It is also worth noting that aluminium joinery is completely non-flammable.
Maintenance of aluminium windows does not require the use of special chemicals. It is enough to wash them a few times a year with a soft cloth, warm water and a mild detergent.
Cost and availability
PVC windows are the cheapest option. Wooden windows are about 30-40% more expensive, and aluminium windows about 50-70% more expensive.
This is, in a sense, their disadvantage. However, the undoubted advantages mean that the number of people interested in this technology is constantly growing. In Poland, we have over a hundred aluminium window manufacturers at our disposal. If we are interested in a specific aluminium window manufacturer, Wielkopolska has the largest selection.
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