Advantages and Disadvantages Of uPVC VS Aluminium

When considering windows and doors for a property in Egypt in , uPVC and aluminum are the two dominant choices, each with distinct advantages and disadvantages. Here’s a detailed comparison, including prices and types:

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UPVC Windows and Doors in Egypt ()

Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC) is a rigid, durable plastic material that has gained significant popularity for windows and doors due to its excellent insulation properties and low maintenance.

Advantages of UPVC:

1. Excellent Thermal Insulation: This is a major advantage in Egypt’s climate. uPVC’s multi-chambered profiles trap air, significantly reducing heat transfer. This helps keep interiors cooler in the scorching summer and warmer in the mild winters, leading to substantial energy savings on air conditioning and heating bills.
2. Superior Acoustic Insulation: uPVC windows are highly effective at blocking out noise, making them ideal for homes in busy urban areas or near noisy streets. The tight seals and material density contribute to a peaceful indoor environment.
3. Low Maintenance: uPVC requires minimal upkeep. It doesn’t rot, rust, corrode, or warp, and it never needs painting or varnishing. A simple wipe with soap and water is usually enough to keep them looking new.
4. Durability and Longevity: Highly resistant to weathering, including UV radiation, extreme temperatures, and humidity. uPVC windows can last for 30-35 years or even longer without degrading.
5. Cost-Effectiveness (Initial Price): Generally, uPVC windows have a lower initial purchase and installation cost compared to aluminum, especially for good quality local profiles. This makes them a more accessible option for a wider range of budgets.
6. Pest and Corrosion Resistant: Unlike wood, uPVC is impervious to termites and other pests, and it doesn’t corrode like some metals.
7. Condensation Resistance: Due to its low thermal conductivity, uPVC is less prone to condensation buildup on the frames, which can be an issue in humid environments.

Disadvantages of UPVC:

1. Limited Aesthetic Options (Traditionally): While uPVC now comes in various colors and wood-grain finishes, the traditional white uPVC might not suit all architectural styles, especially very modern or traditional designs. The frames can also appear bulkier than aluminum.
2. Less Structural Strength: While strong, uPVC is not as inherently rigid as aluminum. For very large window openings or complex designs, uPVC might require internal steel reinforcement, which adds to the weight and complexity.
3. Environmental Concerns: uPVC is a plastic, and while it’s durable, it’s not biodegradable. Recycling uPVC can be more challenging than aluminum, although efforts are being made to improve its recyclability.
4. Potential for Discoloration: In areas with prolonged exposure to harsh sunlight or high pollution, some lower-quality uPVC profiles might show signs of yellowing or discoloration over many years, although high-quality uPVC is formulated to resist this.
5. Repair Difficulty: If a uPVC frame is significantly damaged, it’s often difficult to repair, and replacement might be the only option.

UPVC Prices (per square meter, estimates for Egypt):

• Low-cost/Economical (Local profiles): EGP 2,000 – EGP 3,500
• Medium-quality (Good local/Turkish profiles): EGP 3,500 – EGP 5,000
• High-quality/Special specifications (Imported profiles like German, Belgian): EGP 4,000 – EGP 6,000+ (can go higher for advanced insulation, complex designs, or special glazing)

Factors influencing UPVC prices: Profile origin (imported vs. local), profile quality and thickness, glass type (single, double, Low-E), hardware quality, window size and complexity, and installation.

Types of UPVC Windows (Common in Egypt):

• Casement Windows: Hinged at the side, opening outward.
• Sliding Windows: Operate on horizontal tracks, good for space-saving.
• Tilt and Turn Windows: Offer dual functionality (tilting for ventilation, swinging open for full access).
• Fixed Windows: Non-opening, for maximum light.
• Bay Windows: Project outwards, adding space.
• Louvered Windows: Adjustable slats for ventilation and privacy.

Aluminum Windows and Doors in Egypt ()

Aluminum is a lightweight, strong, and highly versatile metal used extensively in modern architecture for windows and doors.

Advantages of Aluminum:

1. Exceptional Strength and Durability: Aluminum’s inherent strength allows for slimmer frames and larger glass panes, maximizing natural light and offering unobstructed views. It’s highly resistant to corrosion, rust, and warping.
2. Design Versatility and Aesthetics: Aluminum offers unparalleled design flexibility. It can be extruded into complex shapes, allowing for sleek, minimalist profiles, large spans, and a wide range of colors and finishes (powder coating, anodizing) to suit any architectural style, from contemporary to industrial.
3. Longevity: Aluminum windows are incredibly durable and can last for 40-50 years or even longer with minimal degradation.
4. Low Maintenance: Similar to uPVC, aluminum is very low maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning. It doesn’t require painting or special treatments.
5. Fire Resistance: Aluminum is a non-combustible material, which enhances the fire safety of a building.
6. Recyclability: Aluminum is 100% recyclable without loss of quality, making it a very environmentally friendly choice.

Disadvantages of Aluminum:

1. Higher Initial Cost: Aluminum windows are generally more expensive than uPVC due to the higher material cost and more complex manufacturing processes, especially for high-performance systems.
2. Thermal Conductivity (Traditional Aluminum): Historically, aluminum was a poor insulator because it conducts heat easily. This meant higher energy bills. However, modern aluminum windows utilize “thermal break” technology, where a non-conductive material is inserted into the frame to create a barrier, significantly improving thermal performance to levels comparable to or even exceeding uPVC. Without thermal breaks, they can be a disadvantage in Egypt’s climate.
3. Condensation (Without Thermal Breaks): Traditional aluminum frames can be prone to condensation in humid environments due to their thermal conductivity, leading to moisture buildup. Thermally broken systems mitigate this issue.
4. Cold Surface Feel: Due to its conductivity, aluminum frames can feel cold to the touch, especially in cooler weather, if they lack proper thermal breaks.
5. Complex Repairs: While highly durable, if an aluminum frame is significantly damaged, repairs can be more intricate and costly than for uPVC, sometimes requiring specialized welding or replacement of sections.

Aluminum Prices (per square meter, estimates for Egypt):

• Aluminum windows are generally more expensive than uPVC.
• Basic aluminum frames (non-thermally broken): Might start from EGP 2,800 – EGP 4,500
• Medium-quality (good local/Turkish profiles, possibly with basic thermal breaks): EGP 4,500 – EGP 7,000+
• High-quality/Thermally broken (imported European systems like Alumil, Aluprof): EGP 7,000 – EGP 10,000+ (can reach much higher for large spans, complex designs, or advanced features).

Factors influencing Aluminum prices: Profile quality and thickness, presence and quality of thermal breaks, finish (powder coating, anodizing), glass type, window size and design complexity, brand/origin (imported vs. local), and installation.

Types of Aluminum Windows (Common in Egypt):

• Sliding Windows/Doors: Very popular due to their sleek appearance and ability to create large open spaces.
• Hinged/Casement Windows: Offer excellent sealing and ventilation.
• Tilt and Turn Windows: Provide versatile ventilation options.
• Folding Doors/Windows (Bi-fold): Create expansive openings by folding away completely.
• Pivot Windows: Rotate on a central axis.
• Fixed Windows: Used for maximizing views and light.
• Curtain Walls and Facades: Used in commercial buildings for large glass fronts.

Summary for Decision Making in Egypt ():

• Budget-conscious and prioritizing insulation: uPVC is the winner. It offers excellent thermal and acoustic performance at a more affordable initial cost, making it a highly practical choice for most Egyptian homes.
• Seeking modern aesthetics, large openings, and willing to invest more: Aluminum, especially with thermal breaks, is the preferred choice. Its strength, slim profiles, and wide range of finishes allow for contemporary architectural designs and maximized natural light. While more expensive upfront, its longevity and high performance can offer long-term value.

It’s crucial to obtain detailed quotes from multiple reputable suppliers for both uPVC and aluminum, specifying your desired features (glass type, hardware, thermal breaks if applicable), to make an informed decision based on the specific needs and budget of your project in Egypt.

More Posts From Climate Egypt

• Detailed Breakdown: Rolling Shutter Prices in Egypt – Understanding Costs, Installation (Internal vs. External), and the Value of Experience
• Common Questions About uPVC Windows & Doors in Egypt (and Our Expert Answers)” – FAQ
• How to Choose Soundproof uPVC Windows and Doors In Egypt
• The Difference Between uPVC Profile Types in Egypt
• uPVC Window and Door Prices in Egypt : Your Comprehensive Guide to Imported and Local Profiles

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• uPVC Windows & Doors

Windows Made With uPVC vs. Other Materials

Over the years, windows have been manufactured using various materials. Here at Rose Collection, we specialise in bringing homeowners high quality sash windows made using contemporary uPVC. The windows in our market-leading collection offer outstanding all around performance and have been keeping their flawless finish for several years. 

But are windows made from uPVC really the best option available to homeowners today? 

If you are considering upgrading your home’s windows, read through this article written by experts at Rose Collection first. Here, we are comparing uPVC with other materials used in window manufacturing to help you discover the best option for your property. 

uPVC Windows 

uPVC is a material frequently used in modern manufacturing. Less flexible than traditional PVC, uPVC can be manipulated into different shapes but will keep its final form for many decades. Durable and weather resistant, uPVC is the perfect material for crafting window frames that are built to last. 

Available in white as standard, uPVC has a clean appearance and glossy finish. For more visually interesting windows, uPVC frames can easily be customised in a large variety of colours and finishes. Homeowners seeking a traditional timber appearance can achieve this authentic look by opting for a woodgrain foil finish. Whatever colour the frames may be, uPVC windows will continue to look just like new for many years to come. 

Another benefit of modern uPVC is its energy efficiency. Windows manufactured with this material provide reliable heat retention and weather protection for properties of all ages. With uPVC windows installed, homeowners will benefit from a warmer home and reduced heating bills. 

Durable uPVC windows can withstand the impact of all weather conditions. The frames will not develop rot issues due to rainwater exposure, and the high quality finish will not fade from sunlight. Homes with uPVC windows will also benefit from added protection against intruders. uPVC is a strong material and is used to create robust and secure window frames. 

Pros: 

• Low maintenance 
• Energy efficient 
• Weatherproof 
• Long-lasting 
• Cost-effective 

Cons:

• It is not as strong as other materials on the market. 

Aluminium Windows 

Aluminium windows have been growing in popularity over recent years. This strong and lightweight metal is malleable and used to create window profiles in a large variety of shapes and sizes. Due to its natural strength, aluminium frames can support large panes of glazing. Frequently used in commercial construction, aluminium is a popular material choice for shopfronts and large floor to ceiling glass windows and doors.  

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Like uPVC, aluminium window frames can be customised to suit the design preferences of each individual homeowner. The durable frames can be flawlessly finished in a wide range of colours, with no need to worry about repainting or colour deterioration in the future. Aluminium windows also offer homes with added insulation and work to effectively reduce heat loss and prevent cold draughts from getting inside.    

Pros: 

• Superior structural strength 
• Low maintenance & durable 
• Slim & lightweight frames 

Cons:

• More expensive than uPVC 
• Not suitable for coastal properties due to saltwater corrosion

Timber Windows 

Timber windows are timeless, bringing character to homes of all ages. While timber frames can have a lifespan of over 60 years, their longevity comes at a cost. Unlike uPVC, timber window frames require regular maintenance to stay in peak condition. Outdated timber windows can succumb to weather damage over time. Exposure to the natural elements can cause timber frames to develop rot, leading to deterioration of the wood and resulting in poor thermal performance.       

It is possible to keep timber window frames in good condition, but homeowners must be committed to regular repair and maintenance work. Timber windows must be repainted every 5 – 10 years, and a wood treatment may need to be added to protect the frames from weather damage. 

Poorly maintained timber windows can lose their shape, and the paint may fade and flake away over time. While timber windows can last for several decades, the wood needs to be well looked after.

Wood is a natural insulator, and well maintained timber windows are highly energy efficient. However, if the wood is left to deteriorate, this can negatively impact the insulation and weather protection provided by the timber frames.

Pros: 

• Improved curb appeal 
• Long life span  
• Environmentally friendly 
• Timeless appearance 
•  Energy efficient 

Cons:  

• More expensive than windows made with other materials, especially uPVC
• Will require repainting & repair work 
• Frequent maintenance

Are uPVC Windows Best?

As discussed, all materials used in window manufacturing have their own advantages and disadvantages. While nothing can quite beat the appearance of natural timber, aluminium boasts the greatest strength, and uPVC windows have many desirable benefits to suit all requirements. 

Being more cost effective than timber and aluminium, uPVC windows have a flawless appearance and provide homes with reliable protection. This durable and low maintenance material is easy to keep in prime condition, with a life span of over 25 years. 

uPVC can be used to manufacture a wide variety of window designs. Here at Rose Collection, we specialise in uPVC sliding sash windows, which can be replicated with wood grain foil finishes to give them a timber look. 

Homeowners looking for low maintenance, long lasting, durable, and visually appealing windows need look no further than contemporary uPVC designs. 

Enhance Your Home With the Rose Collection 

At Rose Collection, we offer the UK’s number one uPVC sliding sash windows. We bring homeowners the stunning Rose Collection, a range of three premium quality uPVC sliding sash window profiles. 

Consisting of the Ultimate, Heritage and Charisma Rose, the Rose Collection offers homeowners a flawless blend of traditional style and contemporary performance. All the sash windows we offer are manufactured using high grade uPVC and energy efficient double glazing. 

With the Rose Collection, you can protect the heritage charm of a period property or bring vintage character to a new build. Don’t hesitate to contact us to learn more about our uPVC sash windows and find an installer near you. 

Contact our team today by calling or filling out our online contact form. While timber windows are timeless, the uPVC windows in the Rose Collection are the perfect combination of authentic design and modern performance. 

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