Aluminum vs Vinyl Replacement Window Decision

One of the more critical decisions pertaining to a window replacement project involves the choice of window materials. In particular, many homeowners grapple with the aluminum vs vinyl replacement window decision, as these two materials are the most popular when it comes to the purchase of replacement windows for their home. After a careful analysis of the pros and cons associated with these two types of windows, however, the choice should become relatively simple.

The first step in resolving the aluminum vs vinyl replacement window debate is to consider the scope of the project. For homeowners who are replacing only a portion of their home's windows, the best move is to match the type of windows that are not being upgraded. A home with older aluminum windows, for example, would likely look a bit strange if newer windows were made from vinyl rather than aluminum. For a consistent look and an easier maintenance schedule, it's best to stick with the type of windows that the rest of the house has.

If every window in the house is scheduled for replacement, the aluminum vs vinyl replacement window decision becomes more complex. While both of these window materials offer a number of advantages, there are a few distinct differences that can help to make the choice more clear.

Aluminum Windows

Aluminum is a lightweight window material that is relatively strong and durable. It's also cost effective in comparison to wood and fiberglass windows. One of the main downsides to aluminum windows is that they are not as energy-efficient as other types of windows. Aluminum is a poor insulator when the temperature difference between a home's exterior and its interior is great. Other window materials, including vinyl, are better at reducing the transfer of heat through the window, which results in lower utility bills for the homeowner.

Another disadvantage to aluminum windows is that they require periodic painting to keep them looking like new. While aluminum windows are not as susceptible to cracking and peeling as are wood windows, the paint will eventually fade and begin to wear off, necessitating a new paint job.

Vinyl Windows

Like aluminum, vinyl is a lightweight material that is also relatively inexpensive. One of vinyl's primary advantages is that the color is built into the vinyl material, which means that for homeowners who dislike painting tasks, the aluminum vs vinyl replacement window debate clearly favors vinyl. However, vinyl windows cannot be painted, so homeowners are locked into their original window color for the life of the new windows.

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