Timber - PVC - Aluminium - Windows, Doors & Conservatories in Hampshire
7 Key Benefits of Aluminium Windows & Doors
7 Key Benefits of Aluminium Windows & Doors
Category: Buying Guide
Reading Time: 6 Minutes
📌 The Honest Verdict
If you want maximum light for your windows or wide-span capabilities for your doors, Aluminium is the superior choice.
While uPVC is great for standard replacements, it cannot match the structural strength needed for slimline bifold doors or seamless floor-to-ceiling glazing.
As a homeowner in Andover, Hampshire, selecting the right material for your new windows and doors is a crucial decision. While uPVC remains a popular budget-friendly option, modern aluminium products have emerged as the choice for those seeking a contemporary look, robust security, and premium performance.
Table of Contents
1. Design Versatility & Slim Frames
The primary reason homeowners choose aluminium is aesthetic versatility. Because aluminium is inherently stronger than uPVC or timber, the frames can be made significantly thinner while supporting heavier glass.
Strength = Style
Standard uPVC frames can be bulky. Aluminium frames can be ultra-slim (often 60mm or less). This “less frame” approach floods your room with natural light and provides uninterrupted views of your garden.
For patio and bifold doors, aluminium is king. Its high strength-to-weight ratio allows for huge glass panes and wider openings that seamlessly connect your home to the outdoors—something uPVC struggles to support without sagging.
2. Durability & Low Maintenance
Living in the UK means dealing with rain, wind, and coastal salt air. This is where aluminium shines for both windows and high-traffic doors.
- Impact Resistant: Aluminium is lightweight yet incredibly strong. It resists the knocks and bumps of daily life better than timber (which dents) or uPVC (which can crack).
- Corrosion Resistant: Modern aluminium is powder-coated. This finish is baked on and effectively seals the metal. It will not rust, rot, or warp, even in harsh weather conditions.
- Low Maintenance: The non-porous surface repels dirt. There is no sanding or painting required—a simple wipe-down with soapy water is all that is needed.
3. Thermal Efficiency
Historically, old metal windows were cold and prone to condensation. This is no longer true.
When combined with high-performance double or triple glazing, modern aluminium windows and doors achieve impressively low U-Values, leading to lower energy bills and a smaller carbon footprint.
4. Enhanced Security
Security is often the #1 priority for entrance doors and rear sliders. The inherent structural integrity of aluminium makes it a robust barrier against forced entry.
Unlike older timber doors that might weaken with rot, aluminium maintains its rigidity for decades. At KJM, all our aluminium systems are fitted with advanced multi-point locking mechanisms and high-security hardware, ensuring your home is protected to the highest standards.
5. Environmentally Friendly
If sustainability is a key factor in your renovation, aluminium is a fantastic choice.
- 100% Recyclable: Aluminium can be recycled infinitely without losing its quality.
- Sustainable Cycle: Recycling aluminium requires only 5% of the energy needed to produce new aluminium.
- Non-Toxic: It does not release harmful vapours or toxins if exposed to fire, making it a safe and eco-conscious building material.
6. Pros & Cons Summary
To help you weigh your options, here is a quick breakdown of the advantages and disadvantages of choosing aluminium for your home.
- Slim Sightlines: Maximises natural light.
- Longevity: Lasts 40+ years (often outliving uPVC).
- Colour Choice: Hundreds of RAL colours available.
- Structural Strength: Ideal for large bifolds & sliders.
- Sustainability: 100% recyclable material.
- Cost: Higher upfront investment than uPVC.
- Repairs: Harder to fix scratches/dents than timber.
- Coastal Care: Needs marine-grade coating if right on the sea.
- Style: Can look too “modern” for some rustic cottages (though Heritage ranges exist).
7. Comparison: Which Material Wins?
| Feature | Aluminium | uPVC | Timber |
|---|---|---|---|
| Frame Thickness | Ultra Slim (Best for light) | Chunky / Standard | Variable |
| Door Stability | Excellent (No warping) | Good (Can expand in heat) | Fair (Can swell/shrink) |
| Lifespan | 40+ Years | 20-25 Years | 50+ Years (if maintained) |
| Maintenance | Low (Wipe clean) | Low (Wipe clean) | High (Paint/Stain) |
| Best For | Large Bifolds & Slim Windows | Standard Replacements | Conservation / Listed |
8. Frequently Asked Questions
No, not modern ones. Old single-glazed metal windows were notorious for condensation. However, modern systems use a “thermal break” (a plastic barrier inside the frame) which keeps the internal metal warm, preventing condensation from forming.
For large openings like patios or bifolds, yes. Aluminium is stronger, allowing for slimmer frames and wider glass panels. uPVC doors tend to have thicker frames and can expand in direct sunlight, which sometimes makes them stick.
Aluminium products are powder-coated, meaning they can be finished in practically any RAL colour. You can even have “dual colour” frames—for example, Anthracite Grey on the outside to match the facade, and White on the inside to match your decor.
🏗️ Explore Our Aluminium Hub
Considering an upgrade? Explore our expert advice on doors, windows, and technical details:
Mark Pearce is a highly experienced specialist in the double glazing industry, having built his knowledge from the ground up through hands-on experience in installation, manufacturing, sales, and business management. Beyond his role at KJM, Mark is a keen blogger, writer, and traveller, often sharing insights on the latest innovations in the home improvement industry.
- The 2026 Glazing Outlook” – High-level summary of the pivot to growth. - 9 December 2025
- Industry News: The Future Homes Standard 2025 & What It Means for Your Windows - 1 December 2025
- KJM Group MD Attends House of Commons Event to Champion UK Glass Industry - 14 November 2025
