by Introduction to Aluminum as Material for Window Frames
Aluminum is a material that has gained popularity in the window and door industry over the last few decades. It offers various advantages over traditional wood and vinyl window frames. Some key advantages of aluminum include its light weight, corrosion resistance, low maintenance and ability to be formed into different profiles.
Durability of Aluminum
One of the major benefits of aluminum is its very high durability in all weather conditions. Aluminum does not require any kind of painting or treatment on the surface to protect it from corrosion caused by water and other environmental factors. While other materials like wood need frequent maintenance of painting, aluminum maintains its integrity for decades with just a simple cleaning. Its corrosion resistant property is attributed to the thin oxide layer that is formed on the aluminum surface when it is exposed to air which protects the metal from further corrosion. This makes aluminum one of the most durable materials to be used as window frames that can last for more than 50 years with very little maintenance required.
Weatherability and Water Resistance
As aluminum does not absorb water, it does not swell or contract with changing temperature and moisture levels like wood. This makes aluminum highly resistant to warping, cracking or damage from exposure to moisture and weather. Even in coastal areas with high salt content in air or areas with heavy rainfall, aluminum frames will not get affected and maintains its structural integrity. The water resistant property of aluminum comes very handy especially for windows installed in areas prone to flooding during monsoons. This ensures long lasting performance of aluminum window profiles.
Variety of Profile Designs
Aluminum Window Profile allows for flexible designs and profiles due to its light weight and easy formability properties. Manufacturers can design unique profile styles from simple and sleek to more decorative ones with grooves and patterns. Whether it be straight lined frames or curved composite profiles, aluminum can be machined into any desired shape. Homeowners have a wide range of design and style options to choose from as per the architecture and aesthetics of their homes. Compound profiles combining two or more extruded sections can result in reinforced frames for larger window panels.
Energy Efficiency
Aluminum is a good conductor of heat and cold. However, when used for window frames, a thermal break is included in the profile design to insulate the exterior from interior. This allows aluminum to provide both appearance and performance benefits. Higher grade thermally broken aluminum frames can offer insulation values at par with vinyl frames, decreasing heat transfer. Along with double or triple glazing, these windows help reduce energy costs of heating and cooling homes through lower air leakage. The tight sealing also keeps external noise out, making aluminum profile windows preferred for traffic noisy areas.
Customizable Finishing Options
Aluminum allows for extensive color and finish options compared to conventional materials. A wide range of powder coated colors and paint finishes are available which do not require re-application frequently. Textured powder coating in various patterns and hues can impart an unique look. Anodized finishing is also popular which involves controlled oxidation of the surface for durable color fast finish. These customizable finishes give freedom to complement the aluminum windows with the exterior of any home. Special architectural finishes like faux wood grain or metallic looks can also be created on aluminum.
Environment Friendly Material
Being infinite recyclable, aluminum causes less impact on the environment compared to materials like PVC and wood which have limitations of reuse. Around 75% of all aluminum produced since 1888 is still in circulation due to its high recyclability. Using recycled aluminum reduces energy usage and carbon footprint in production. It can be readily recycled and remelted again and again without any loss in strength or quality. At the end of service life, aluminum frames and profiles can simply be recycled into new aluminum extrusions rather than ending up in landfills. This environmental sustainability aspect is a big advantage driving the popularity of aluminum window frames.
Resale and Investment Value
Premium quality aluminum windows with their longevity, energy savings and maintenance-free features tend to enhance the overall value and curb appeal of homes significantly. It has been found they can increase resale value by about 3-5% which is much higher than other conventional window materials. This establishes aluminum windows as wise investments for homeowners in the long run. Even after decades, well maintained aluminum framed windows from reputed manufacturers help fetch good resale prices, offering higher returns on property. The durable, low maintenance aluminum profiles allow the new owners to enjoy years of trouble-free performance from the windows.
Aluminum has numerous functional and eco-friendly benefits that make it a top choice for high performance window frames worldwide. Its light weight, corrosion resistance, weatherability, energy efficiency, variety in styles & customizable finishes along with recyclability offer a clear upper hand over traditional materials like wood and vinyl. Being durable for lifetimes with minimal maintenance, aluminum windows deliver high value for investments and enhance architecture. As sustainability concerns grow, aluminum profiles will see further rise in popularity for windows bringing long term advantages for homeowners.
*Note:
1. Source: Coherent Market Insights, Public sources, Desk research
2. We have leveraged AI tools to mine information and compile it
