Aluminium Windows vs uPVC – What’s Better for North East Homes?

Choosing new windows is one of the biggest upgrades you can make to your home. Across the North East – including Washington, Sunderland, Newcastle and County Durham – homeowners are increasingly deciding between aluminium windows and uPVC windows.

Both have their place, but which option is actually better for your home?

In this guide, we break down the real differences between aluminium and uPVC windows, covering cost, appearance, energy efficiency, durability, and long-term value — helping you make an informed decision.

What Are Aluminium Windows?

Aluminium windows are manufactured using strong, lightweight aluminium frames with modern thermal break technology. This allows them to deliver excellent strength and thermal performance while maintaining a slim, contemporary look.

They’re especially popular for:

• Modern homes

• Extensions

• Renovation projects

• Large window openings

• Homes wanting a premium finish

👉 Learn more about aluminium options here:https://www.washingtonasltd.co.uk/aluminium-windows

What Are uPVC Windows?

uPVC windows are made from unplasticised polyvinyl chloride and remain one of the most common window types in UK homes. They’re known for being affordable, low maintenance, and widely available.

uPVC windows are ideal for:

• Standard window replacements

• Traditional homes

• Budget-conscious projects

• Rental properties

👉 View our uPVC window range here:https://www.washingtonasltd.co.uk/upvc-windows

Aluminium vs uPVC Windows – Side-by-Side Comparison

Feature	Aluminium Windows	uPVC Windows
Appearance	Slim, modern frames	Thicker, traditional frames
Strength	Extremely strong	Strong, but bulkier
Lifespan	30–40+ years	20–25 years
Maintenance	Very low	Very low
Energy Efficiency	Excellent (modern systems)	Excellent
Colour Options	Any RAL colour, dual colours	Limited colours
Best For	Modern & large openings	Standard replacements
Cost	Higher upfront	Lower upfront

Appearance & Design

Aluminium Windows

Aluminium allows for much slimmer frames, meaning more glass and more natural light. This makes them perfect for:

• Open-plan living spaces

• Kitchen extensions

• Picture windows

• Modern architecture

Popular colours in the North East include:

• Anthracite Grey

• Black

• White

• Dual colour (grey outside, white inside)

uPVC Windows

uPVC windows offer a more traditional appearance and suit:

• Older properties

• Standard window sizes

• Homes wanting white or woodgrain finishes

They’re a solid, reliable option — but visually bulkier than aluminium.

Energy Efficiency & Thermal Performance

Both aluminium and uPVC windows perform very well when manufactured using modern systems.

uPVC

• Naturally insulating material

• Excellent U-values

• Great choice for heat retention

Aluminium

• Uses advanced thermal break technology

• Low-E glass and argon-filled units

• Comparable energy efficiency to uPVC

For most North East homes, both options meet or exceed building regulations.

Strength, Security & Durability

Aluminium Windows

• Naturally stronger material

• Ideal for larger window openings

• Excellent resistance to weather and warping

• Very secure with multi-point locking

uPVC Windows

• Reinforced internally

• Secure and compliant with modern standards

• Can flex over time on very large spans

If security and long-term durability are top priorities, aluminium has the edge.

Maintenance & Longevity

Both options are low maintenance, but aluminium wins for longevity.

• uPVC: wipe clean, but may discolour slightly over time

• Aluminium: wipe clean, colour stays sharp for decades

Aluminium windows often last 10–15 years longer than uPVC equivalents.

Cost – Which Is Better Value?

T

ypical North East Prices (fitted):

• uPVC windows: £400 – £700 per window

• Aluminium windows: £550 – £1,200+ per window

uPVC is cheaper upfront, but aluminium offers:

• Longer lifespan

• Better aesthetics

• Higher property value uplift

Which Should You Choose?

Choose Aluminium Windows if you want:

✔ Modern, slimline design✔ More natural light✔ Long lifespan✔ Custom colours✔ Premium look and feel

👉 Explore aluminium windows:https://www.washingtonasltd.co.uk/aluminium-windows

Choose uPVC Windows if you want:

✔ Lower initial cost✔ Traditional styling✔ Standard window sizes✔ Reliable performance

👉 View uPVC options:https://www.washingtonasltd.co.uk/upvc-windows

Why Choose Washington Aluminium Services?

We supply and install both aluminium and uPVC windows, giving you honest, expert advice based on your home — not just one product.

We cover:

• Washington

• Sunderland

• Newcastle

• Durham

• Gateshead

• South Shields

• The wider North East

Every installation is:✔ Made to measure✔ Professionally installed✔ Fully guaranteed✔ Supported by a local team

Get Expert Advice & a Free Quote

If you’re unsure which option is right for your home, we’re here to help.

📞 07787 762 575🌐 https://www.washingtonasltd.co.uk