uPVC vs aluminium windows: Which is right for you?

Introducing uPVC

uPVC stands for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride, a durable and rigid material widely used in construction. Through a precise manufacturing process, the material is formed into strong uPVC window frames with internal chambers that trap air and reduce heat transfer.

This design helps keep warm air inside your home during winter while limiting heat loss through the glass and frames. The result is excellent thermal efficiency, which can help reduce energy bills and your home’s carbon footprint.

It is no surprise that uPVC windows are the most popular window solution in the UK, used everywhere from modern homes to cottages and period properties.

A reason for this popularity is the relatively low cost of uPVC. Unlike timber, it can be mass-produced, which keeps the price low; it isn’t due to a compromise in quality.

Key advantages of uPVC include:

• Excellent thermal efficiency, helping reduce heating bills
• Lower cost thanks to efficient large-scale manufacturing
• Long lifespan with minimal maintenance
• Strong sound insulation with double or triple glazing
• A wide range of colours, including white, cream and anthracite grey
• Woodgrain finishes that replicate traditional timber windows

Cleaning is simple, too. Most frames only require a wipe with soapy water and a damp cloth to keep them looking their best.

Introducing aluminium

Aluminium windows are made using strong aluminium frames, typically combined with thermal break technology. A thermal break is a small insulating barrier inside the frame that reduces heat transfer through the metal.

While aluminium was once known for poor insulation, advanced thermal break technology has significantly improved performance. Even so, aluminium windows usually still have slightly lower thermal efficiency than modern uPVC frames.

Where aluminium excels is design. The material is incredibly strong, allowing for slim frames and slim profiles that maximise natural light.

Benefits of aluminium windows include:

• Extremely slim sightlines and contemporary design
• Strong frames suited to larger glass panels
• Long lifespan and resistance to warping
• A range of colours including modern powder-coated finishes
• Low maintenance cleaning requirements

However, aluminium windows usually cost more due to the manufacturing process and material price.

Choose uPVC if

For many homes in the West Midlands, uPVC is often the best choice. Here are a few situations where it performs particularly well.

If you’re looking to reduce energy bills

Modern uPVC window frames use multi-chamber designs that reduce heat loss. With double glazing or triple glazing, they can achieve excellent U-values, meaning less heat escapes your home.

This improved energy efficiency can lead to lower energy bills and a more comfortable living space.

If you’re not looking to spend too much on new windows

One of the biggest benefits of uPVC windows is their affordability. Because the material can be mass produced efficiently, the cost remains lower than aluminium without compromising quality.

If you want a traditional style

Many homeowners love uPVC because it suits a variety of styles, especially period properties.

Woodgrain finishes and heritage hardware mean uPVC can replicate the look of classic sash windows, bay windows or bow windows.

If you want a low-maintenance solution

Unlike timber windows, uPVC does not rot, peel or require repainting. A quick clean with a damp cloth and soapy water keeps frames looking fresh for years.

Choose aluminium if

Aluminium can still be the right choice depending on your priorities.

If slim sightlines are your priority

Aluminium’s biggest advantage is its strength. This allows slim frames that maximise natural light, which many homeowners prefer for contemporary designs.

If you do not mind a higher price

The benefits of aluminium often come with a higher cost. For homeowners prioritising architectural design or very large windows, the investment may still be worthwhile.

If you are designing a modern home

For modern homes, aluminium often fits the architectural style. That said, high-end uPVC finishes can also achieve a contemporary look.

uPVC vs aluminium windows comparison

For many homeowners comparing uPVC vs aluminium windows, uPVC often wins on energy performance and affordability.

uPVC windows from Leamore Windows

At Leamore Windows, we manufacture many of our uPVC frames in-house at our Bloxwich facility. This gives us greater control over quality, lead times and consistency.

We also work with trusted VEKA profile systems, one of the most respected names in the UK glazing industry.

Our uPVC windows support double glazing and triple glazing, helping improve thermal efficiency, reduce heat loss and increase sound insulation.

We offer a range of styles, including:

• Casement windows: The most common UK window style. Hinged at either the sides or top and opening inwards or outwards, they’re renowned for simplicity and easy operation. You can expect U-values around 1.3 W/m²K with double glazing and as low as 0.96 W/m²K with triple glazing.
• Flush sash windows: Designed to replicate traditional timber windows, the glass sits completely level with the frame for a heritage appearance, with modern insulation retained.
• Tilt and turn windows: Ideal for apartments or upper floors. They tilt inward for secure ventilation or fully open for easy cleaning from inside the home.
• Vertical sliding sash windows: A modern version of classic sash windows, where two panes slide vertically. Perfect for period properties while offering improved insulation.

Our VEKA systems are available in a wide range of colours, including:

• White
• Cream
• Anthracite grey
• Chartwell green
• Black
• Woodgrain finishes such as Golden Oak and Rosewood

Hardware options include chrome, gold, satin, white and black handles, along with multi-point locking systems for extra peace of mind.

What is the Residence Collection?

The Residence Collection is a premium uPVC system designed to replicate traditional timber joinery. With deep square profiles and a flush design, it suits heritage homes while delivering modern energy efficiency with double or triple glazing.

Who are Leamore Windows?

We have been installing windows, doors and conservatories across the West Midlands since 1983. What started as two brothers improving homes in Walsall has grown into an award-winning family-run business with our own manufacturing facility in Bloxwich.

Over the years we have built a loyal customer base across areas including Wombourne, Stafford, Lichfield and Dudley. Our work has even featured on BBC One’s DIY SOS, where we helped transform a family home in Willenhall.

Homeowners choose us because:

• We are award-winning, voted West Midlands favourite eight times
• We manufacture and install high-quality products
• Our team never uses pressure sales tactics
• All installations come with FENSA certification

Whether you are comparing uPVC vs aluminium windows or planning a full home upgrade, our friendly team is here to help.

Visit our showroom, call us on 01922 473 737 or speak to us today for expert advice on the right windows for your home.