Aluminum Clad Wood Windows
Are you considering aluminum or vinyl clad windows? Or are you looking for answers as to what such a structure even is and whether investing in it is worthwhile? So let’s go through the advantages and disadvantages of aluclad profiles together, so you can decide whether these structures will be the right option for your project.
After reading this article, you will know:
- What aluminum clad window is
- How durable are aluclad windows
- Aluminum clad or vinyl clad – which solution is better
- What are the disadvantages of an aluminum-framed window
- Which aluclad windows are the best
- What the price of aluclad windows is
What is an aluminum clad wood window?
The aluclad window is a wooden structure with aluminum cladding. It has a wooden frame on the inside and is covered with a layer of aluminum on the outside. The wooden frame provides an aesthetically pleasing appearance along with the thermal benefits of wood, while the aluminum cladding protects the window from weather, moisture and potential damage. In addition, the cladding is available in a variety of colors and finishes and is usually maintenance-free, as it is corrosion-resistant.
How long do aluminum clad wood windows last?
The lifespan of aluclad windows can vary depending on a number of factors, such as the quality of materials, installation and maintenance, but in general these profiles are durable and long-lasting. A wooden window frame can last for decades with proper care, such as regular painting or staining, while an aluminum cladding will last for many years with minimal maintenance.
Which is better — aluminum clad or vinyl clad window?
The choice between aluminum and vinyl ultimately depends on your customer’s specific needs, preferences, and budget. Here are some key factors to help you decide:
- cost — vinyl clads are usually cheaper (by about 30%) than aluclads
- energy efficiency — both aluclads and vinyl clads have good thermal performance, but it is the vinyl windows that perform better, as the material insulates heat better
- durability — both types of windows are durable, but aluclads are generally more resistant to damage than vinyl clads
- appearance — aluclads are characterized by a more traditional and exclusive style, vinyl clads, on the other hand, are available in a wider range of colors and finishes, they can also be designed to imitate wood or other materials
- maintenance — aluclad windows require more frequent care than vinyl profiles, due to their wooden part, which requires periodic painting and coating
In summary, if your investor needs a window with a traditional or prestigious look and is prepared for higher costs and more frequent maintenance, then aluclads may be for them. If they are betting on very good thermal insulation at a lesser price, along with lower maintenance requirements, choose vinyl clads.
What are the disadvantages of an aluminum-framed window?
- Thermal performance — aluclads achieve favorable thermal performance, but it should be remembered that aluminum is also a good heat conductor, which means that it can easily transfer heat from the inside to the outside of the window frame. As a result, there can be heat loss during cold weather, and faster heating of the room during higher temperatures.
- Soundproofing — aluminum is not as effective at blocking sound as, for instance, vinyl or wood.
- Corrosion — aluminum is generally resistant to corrosion, but can be susceptible to oxidation and rusting over time, especially in areas with high levels of moisture or salt.
- Moisture — due to its thermal conductivity, aluminum frames can also be prone to condensation, which can lead to moisture build-up, but this is a very rare case.
- Price — aluminum-framed windows are usually more expensive than other profiles.
- Limited color options — aluminum frames are usually available only in a limited range of colors and finishes, compared to vinyl.
Best aluminum clad wood windows
As with other windows made by professional manufacturers from Poland, aluclads will also be profiles of very good quality, and the choice of the best system will depend on the specific needs and preferences of your customer. In debesto you will find, for instance, aluclads with a classic or modern design, with a hidden sash, thanks to which the windows additionally gain in aesthetics. Their large glass area, will also let a considerable amount of light into the room..
Aluminum clad wood windows price
The price of an aluclad window will mainly depend on the manufacturer, size, glazing, and the material from which it is made.
In the States, the price of an aluclad double-hung window can range from $400 to $1200. Premium designs already cost $3000 and up, and now think that you have to add installation dues.
What about Poland? Based on a 1230 × 1480 mm tilt and turn window with a double-glazed package, the price starts at $785, while the premium profile starts at $960. You can see the differences, can’t you? Remember, too, that in addition to the lower cost, you get products of the highest standard based on the latest technology.
Above all, aluclads are highly energy-efficient, and their cladding provides a layer of protection from the weather, and they can also be painted to match the aesthetics of a particular building. As a result, aluclads are the optimal option for the people that have a significant budget and are looking for a high-performance and stylish window.
Do you still have some doubt? Not sure what profile to choose?
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