Your windows allow light into your home, and they are your view to the world outside. Why cloud that with poor quality windows, or windows that do not meet your needs? One of the most important decisions you will make is whether you should choose between aluminum or vinyl ¹ windows. Each option has pros and cons, but the final decision is yours to make.

Below, we explore both vinyl and aluminum windows in depth to help you gain a better understanding of what to expect when you invest in either option.

Energy-Efficiency

Vinyl windows that are on the market today are energy-efficient and provide the cost savings you expect when investing in new windows. The reason vinyl is energy-efficient is because it is designed to reduce any heat transfer that takes place and also limits the amount of light penetration that shines through the window. Vinyl windows help regulate the internal temperature of the home, which allows the HVAC system to work less, thus rendering the vinyl windows energy-efficient.

Aluminum windows are not as energy-efficient. This is because they are actually heat conductors and heat a room up. Since the aluminum conducts heat, it allows more heat to penetrate through the windows, causing the HVAC system to work harder to cool the room. If the interior of the home is substantially cooler than the outside, condensation can form on the windows and lead to other issues such as mold and rust.

No matter which type of window you choose, vinyl or aluminum, even the best energy-efficient windows are less efficient if not installed properly.

Costs

Of these window materials, vinyl is the less expensive to both purchase and install. A 48-inch vinyl window will cost between $520 and $730, with installation for each costing around $250. This makes the total cost for each installed window between $770 and $980.

Aluminum windows cost between $720 and $930 for a 48-inch window, and installation costs are higher, around $350 for each window. This makes the final cost for each window installed between $1,070 and $1,280.

Durability

Since vinyl is a flexible material, the windows cannot handle extreme temperature changes and will warp. This can sometimes leave the vinyl stretched with a distorted look, which is undesirable. Aluminum windows are extremely durable and do not bend or twist, even in the hottest or coldest temperatures, which is why many homeowners prefer them. Also, aluminum windows are one of the strongest materials available in the window market. The frame is made to withstand inclement weather, and the frames do not warp, contract, or expand in extreme temperatures.

Corrosion is not an issue with vinyl windows, but it is with aluminum. You will find that aluminum windows deteriorate and corrode, especially around the metallic silver area.

Environmental Concerns

Vinyl windows are made from PVC. Because of this, the windows are not biodegradable, and there is controversy about whether there are harmful gases released during and after the production of the windows. Many people, who are environmentally conscious, do not choose vinyl windows.

Aluminum is environmentally friendly because it can be recycled. These windows are often removed from homes and then recycled or reused. One thing to keep in mind is that aluminum, while environmentally friendly, is not energy-efficient, which may be a deal breaker for those who are conscious about keeping the environment green.

Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet

¹ Vinyl: A synthetic plastic made from ethylene and chlorine. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others