Doors, Windows & Fittings
Window and door materials:
PVCu vs. Aluminium
Windows and doors are the entry
ways to your home, so when it’s time
to replace them, it’s important to
choose durable and resistant materials
that will stand the test of time. The
argument of which material is better
to use for windows and doors between
PVCu and aluminium has been in
debate ever since aluminium became
a popular window manufacturing
material.
Recent figures suggest that the number
of PVCu window and doors fabricators
are declining, or have begun to offer
aluminium systems, with a massive
40% increase in firms who offer both
PVCu and aluminium products. In 2015,
almost 60% of bifold doors in the UK
were made of aluminium, compared to
only 27% made from PVCu, showing
the rise and popularity of aluminium
in UK households. However, both
materials have been trusted for use in
construction for decades due to their
durability and resistance.
before aluminium was considered. It
has been a material that has long been
considered durable and strong, making
it perfect for protecting your home
along with these reasons:
• It is weather resistant
• It is a low maintenance material – a
wipe down will make it clean and fresh
• It does not biologically decompose
• It can withstand strong force
• It is sustainable due to allowing
itself to be reshaped under hot
temperatures
PVCu is much stronger than timber,
and only requires replacing after 20 to
30 years and prove to be just as secure
as aluminium, however security also
depends on the choice of locks chosen
to be used on your windows and doors.
However, PVCu is a substantially
better soundproofing material than
aluminium, and is slightly more
efficient at blocking out exterior noise.
Why use PVCu? Why use Aluminium?
PVCu (unplasticised Poly Vinyl
Chloride) has been used in window and
door manufacturing since the 1980’s, Aluminium is a highly durable material
that can last up to 45 years when used
in home fixtures like bi fold doors
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from Quickslide. This material is the
second most common metal used in
construction after steel, and due to its
ductility, it can be shaped and moulded
for different purposes. It’s sleek,
modern and minimal in style is often
preferred in manufacturing fixtures for
buildings along with these benefits:
• Unlike other metals, aluminium will
not rust, so there will never be any
unsightly rust patches and will stay
good as new for the duration of their
lifespan.
• Provide more natural light
• Lightweight and strong, so it can
support large glass panes
• 100% recyclable
• Corrosion resistant
Although it can be more expensive that
PVCu, aluminium may add more value
to your home in the long run due to
its longer lifespan. Choose windows
and doors that suit your style and
budget from a selection of designs from
Quickslide.
www.quickslide.co.uk