Vinyl aluminum windows better

New windows are a great way to do that, but which one should you get? Which of the two are more energy efficient?

Without a doubt, vinyl is much more energy-efficient than aluminum windows on the most basic level. Vinyl has better insulating properties than aluminum which keeps the outside temperatures from transferring into your home. Additionally, the insulating properties lend themselves to better soundproofing and give the vinyl windows a better STC rating than aluminum. Upfront, vinyl windows are less expensive than aluminum windows.

And, as mentioned, aluminum can get even pricier with energy-efficient upgrades. If the cost of the window is your driving factor, then vinyl is hands down the winner. Hopefully, you have enough information to make an educated decision for your purchase. Aluminum Windows Aluminum windows are traditionally a popular choice for a variety of reasons. What are the advantages of a vinyl framed window? Which has the better appearance? Which window is more durable?

It seems like vinyl is the more durable, right? Get Local Cost. Find Pros. Appearance Aluminum windows come with a thinner frame , which provides your home with a more modern style. Installation Both aluminum and vinyl windows should be installed by a professional. Noise Insulation Aluminum windows are much better at stopping noise than vinyl windows. Maintenance While vinyl windows are considered low maintenance, they require care over time.

Was this guide helpful to you? Yes No. Feedback Send. Thanks for your feedback! Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet Definitions in laymen's terms, cost considerations, pictures and things you need to know. See full cheat sheet. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others. How much does it cost to install vinyl or aluminum windows in my city? Related comparison guides.

Bay vs Bow Window. Casement vs Sash Window. Single-Hung vs Double-Hung Windows. Vinyl vs Fiberglass Windows. Wood vs Vinyl Windows. Related cost guides. Window Replacement. Bay Window Installation. Casement Window Installation. Egress Window Installation. Fiberglass Window Installation. Glass Block Window Installation.

Picture Window Installation. Sash Window Installation. Skylight Installation. Skylight Repair. Sliding Window Installation. Storm Window Installation. Vinyl Window Installation. Wood Window Installation. Labor cost by city and zip code Compared to national average Albuquerque, NM.

Anchorage, AK. Ashland, NH. Athens, GA. Baltimore, MD. Boston, MA. Bronx, NY. Center, KY. Chicago, IL. Coldwater, MI. Dallas, TX. Denver, CO. Detroit, MI. Fort Wayne, IN. Hartford, CT. Aluminum is a stronger and more durable material than vinyl and offers structural advantages due to its build strength.

Also, the quality and design of locks can help increase the levels of security of your windows. Stronger than vinyl windows - If you want a window that has larger glass or protection against the elements, aluminum windows are stronger than vinyl windows and are the better option. More modern styling - the look of aluminum is sleek and modern with different finish and color options available to a homeowner looking for something beyond the status quo.

Less framework and slimmer profiles deliver more streamlined contemporary aesthetics vs bulky vinyl windows. Aluminum frames also allow for larger glass panes, better views, and more light inside your home.

While Aluminum windows have some amazing benefits, vinyl windows do offer benefits of their own. An aluminum window may cost more upfront, but in the end, it can be much more cost-effective over the lifetime of the window, resulting in long term savings.

But in the short term — plastic is often cheaper. Soundproofing - Vinyl windows do offer a slight edge over aluminum for soundproofing. This in no way implies aluminum is bad at soundproofing. There is just a slight edge in the favor of vinyl, though both materials offer superior levels of soundproofing.

Energy-efficiency - Vinyl windows have a reputation for being more energy-efficient than aluminum. While this was true in the past, innovations have helped aluminum windows catch up to their PVC counterparts and options are available for aluminum windows to match energy efficiency with vinyl windows. More traditional appearance - if you want a window that looks like a typical window on every house, vinyl windows are the way to go. Some of the disadvantages of aluminum windows we have discussed here can be alleviated with additional options, while others are minor and may not be a deciding factor in purchasing aluminum windows over vinyl windows.

Aluminum windows cost more than vinyl - If you are looking for a long-lasting window, Aluminum will be lower cost in the long run for the life of the window even if upfront costs are higher. Efficiency - aluminum conducts heat and cold and is a poor insulator on its own. Vinyl is more energy-efficient, but recent advancement with aluminum windows such as coatings and thermal breaks help increase their efficiency to be on par to vinyl.

The strength and construction of aluminum windows allow for more glass and more unique designs, such as the Tilt and Turn style of windows. They are an amazing solution for new windows and are anything but the traditional up and down windows with multiple options for opening and tilting. This is certainly not a disadvantage unless you want a basic, traditional window. Some of the disadvantages of vinyl windows have been mentioned previously.

If you are trying to remain environmentally conscious, vinyl is not the way to go. Not as strong as aluminum - Aluminum widows have stronger frames, allowing for the ability for more glass to be used.

This allows for greater views and more light to pass through, especially in the case of Slider Windows. If you want the typical window look and want your windows to look like all your neighbors or the stock at the big box store, then vinyl is the way to go. With vinyl, the window you have is the window you will have, so be sure you like it enough to keep it for years. If you like changing things up every few years, repainting or recoating — aluminum can be a better choice to make sure your windows are updated as your taste and style changes.