Residential window frames can be made of various materials. Examples of materials commonly used to fabricate these frames include aluminium, wood, and vinyl, among others.

There's great importance attached to choosing the right material for residential window frames, and doing so requires a homeowner to understand the benefits and potential drawbacks of each frame material. This article compares aluminium windows against residential windows made of other types of materials.

Aluminium vs. Vinyl

Window frames made of vinyl are increasingly becoming popular with a large number of homeowners. Advantages associated with vinyl-framed windows include the fact that these frames come in a variety of colours and styles and that the frames don't need to be painted or stained after installation.

Aluminium window frames are superior to their vinyl counterparts in the sense that they make for a more soundproof window system. The explanation for this is that aluminium is a heavier material than vinyl. Thus, it's easier for outdoor noise to get through a vinyl window frame than through an aluminium-framed one.

Also, aluminium has greater resistance to moisture as compared to vinyl. This advantage is especially important for external window frames that will face constant exposure to harsh weather elements.

Aluminium vs. Timber

The timber frame is often considered the "classic" choice of frame for residential windows. Advantages associated with timber-framed windows include the high aesthetic appeal associated with stained (as opposed to painted) timber frames. Timber frames give residential windows a warm touch and a natural feel.

However, aluminium frames are made with very thin sheets of the metal that are less noticeable. Thus, aluminum frames will provide a less obstructed view of the outdoors through a residential window. Also, the structural strength of aluminium metal is greater than that of timber. As such, aluminium frames can support more weight with greater ease than the timber window frames. In other words, this means that aluminium frames will support the installation of larger-sized windows around the residential premises.

Aluminium vs. Steel

Steel is preferred for the fabrication of residential window frames due to its structural strength, which is higher than that of aluminium. However, aluminium is more elastic than steel. This means that it's easier for aluminium window frames to be fabricated to a wider variety of shapes and sizes as compared to window frames made of steel.

Also, the corrosion resistance of aluminium is known to be better than that of steel. Therefore, aluminium-framed windows are less likely to suffer damage as a result of corrosion.