A guide to the best solution for replacing aluminium windows

It is no secret that aluminium window frames require ongoing, demanding maintenance and can be costly to maintain. Therefore, if you’re doing some home improvements and are looking at replacing your aluminium window frames, it may pay to see what other materials are out there.
One of the first things to think about in the window replacement process is what appealed about the original frames. In the case of aluminium windows, the benefits are obvious.

Whether for casement windows or flush sash windows, the look of an aluminium window can be striking. The slim sightlines, smooth, powder-coated finish and sharp outline suits a certain style of home very well, certain homeowners’ visual sensibilities.
Outside of window design, the strength of aluminium windows and door frames remain a major selling point. Frames in this material have traditionally been stronger than wood or PVCu windows, allowing for a slimmer appearance and larger glass surface that give aluminium windows their distinct and modern look.

Positives and Negatives

Of course, these positives can also be seen as negatives to some. The strength and sleek look of aluminium windows comes at added cost. Aluminium is traditionally three times more expensive than flush fit PVCu, and requires regular maintenance to stave off issues like corrosion.
Additionally, their heat conducting properties means aluminium windows are more susceptible to condensation forming. While this can be resolved by installing thermal breaks, heat could be lost through the frame if they are not fitted correctly. If this were to occur, this could lead to a lower energy rating.
This raises the question - is it possible to have the strength and look of an aluminium window, but without their downsides? With the correct PVCu window, this is very much the case.

Keeping Up Appearances

If we were comparing aluminium windows and PVCu windows back in the 1980s, there were clear differences. While PVCu windows have always been a more cost-effective option, they were previously only available in white or a small number of foils. Additionally, most options, from flush fit PVCu casement windows to flush sash windows, tended to be quite bulky in design.
Yet as we have trended toward the cleaner finishes and slimmer sightlines associated with aluminium windows, so too has PVCu technology moved on. Now, flush fit PVCu windows are available with a wide array of jointing options, including fully welded and mechanical joints. Furthermore, the range of foils available with PVCu windows has expanded to include everything from bold and striking primary colours, to minimalist shades like black and grey.
Because of these advances, it is now possible to provide the clean look of an aluminium window at far lower cost. The fact that PVCu is virtually maintenance-free also means you can enjoy peace of mind that your window will not corrode.

Performance and Practicality

But whether you are looking for flush fitting casement windows or flush sash windows, a window’s look needs to be complemented by its performance. Indeed, it is vital to know that all windows are not created equal in this regard. However, knowing what standards and accreditations to look for can help you make a more informed choice.
With that in mind, here are examples of what demonstrates a high-quality window:

Window Energy Rating (WER) - ranking from E to A++, this demonstrates the energy efficiency of a window.
BS EN 12608 and BS 7412 - windows bearing these standards have been manufactured to the highest possible level.
BS 6375-1 - windows with this standard can provably withstand ‘severe’ weather conditions, and have high levels of wind resistance, air permeability and weather performance.
PAS 24 - This accreditation demonstrates a window’s enhanced security performance.

REHAU’s own ranges of PVCu solutions, such as the Rio Flush Fit, TOTAL70 and Heritage windows, hold standards and accreditations that market them out as excellent choices. Our GENEO AluTop, for instance, can provide the look and robustness of an aluminium window, with the performance benefits more commonly associated with PVCu.
Specifically, the GENEO AluTop’s RAU-FIRPO X PVCu profile provides an outstanding level of soundproofing and thermal insulation. Alongside this, the profile also gives the frame exceptional strength, and its aluminium cover means you can enjoy the exterior appeal of an aluminium window, with the performance benefits of PVCu.
In conclusion, replacing aluminium windows doesn’t necessarily mean fitting more aluminium windows. The advances made in PVCu technology means it is now possible to offer a appealing alternative that provides the look of an aluminium window, without the downsides around cost, performance and ongoing maintenance.

For more information about REHAU’s high-quality range of flush fit windows, including the GENEO AluTop, visit our Windows range.

Find out which window material suits your lifestyle in our 21st Century Window Renovation Guide:

Read Timber & Aluminium Guide

Clare Higgins

Senior Product Manager

Window Solutions

REHAU UK