Aluminum Windows Pros and Cons
The PROS

Aluminum windows continue to be a viable option for homeowners seeking moderately priced replacement windows that are bound to increase the property value of your home.

In this article, “Aluminum Windows Pros and Cons of Installing Aluminum Replacement Windows”, we highlight the pros and cons of installing discount aluminum windows and discuss the key factors to help you make the best decision when it comes to replacing your windows.

For current reviews of the best aluminum windows brands visit our replacement windows reviews page.

Aluminum Replacement Windows are Very Light and Very Strong

Aluminum windows are very light, but also very strong. Their strength easily allows for any shape and size of arched or regular window. The windows are designed to hold larger panes of glass without the need for mullions.

This allows for a larger viewing area and brings a more modern appeal to your home. In addition, aluminum windows are super durable and thus do not require much maintenance. This is especially true if you chose windows with a factory-baked or anodized finish.

single hung vs double hung windows

Aluminum Replacement Windows are Extremely Versatile

Many homeowners have a negative first impression when considering aluminum replacement windows because they imagine a blah, grey colored, rectangular window. What is not as well-known is aluminum is super versatile when it comes to shapes, sizes, and color. Aluminum can be any color and will match any color scheme or design of your home, enhancing its curb appeal and allowing for a greater array of siding options.

Wood windows may look nice, but for a complete visually stunning window appearance for your home, aluminum windows will give you the options for customized window design at an affordable price. The inherent versatility of aluminum makes it more attractive in new construction where you can influence the design without elaborate renovation costs.

Aluminum Replacement Windows are Phenomenal Noise Reducers

Aluminum windows, especially those with cladding, are excellent at reducing the transfer of noise between the home and the great outdoors. For homeowners that live near a busy street, shopping center, school, or other areas where loud noise persists, having windows that will keep excess noise out of your home will help to make your home a much more pleasant place to live.

Consider double-paned aluminum windows for even greater noise reduction! Now that’s definitely a PRO when it comes to aluminum windows pros and cons.

Aluminum Replacement Windows are Eco-Friendly

Aluminum is malleable, meaning that it can be shaped, rolled or curved into many great products such as the frames for windows and doors, car parts and several other things. Most importantly, aluminum windows are 100% recyclable, making it a fantastic choice for environmentally conscious homeowners who want to be as green as possible. Upon disposal, aluminum windows can be separated from any buildings that have to be torn down and recycled for use in any number of other applications.

Aluminum Replacement Windows are Moderately Priced

Pricing for aluminum windows vary. I’ve seen estimates for as low as $400 per window to as high as $1,200 per window installation. The actual amount that homeowners ultimately pay for their aluminum windows depends on many factors, including the quality of the materials purchased, the size and style of the windows, the experience of the person installing the windows and the part of the country that the homeowner lives.

Homeowners should expect to pay more for high-quality materials, custom-built windows or extra features such as improved energy efficiency. But in general aluminum windows tend to cost a little more than vinyl replacement windows but usually less than fiberglass windows or wood replacement windows.

aluminum double hung windows price

Aluminum Windows Pros and Cons
The CONS

Aluminum Windows Are Not Energy Efficient

The cons list for aluminum replacement windows is short but it’s a biggie. In general, aluminum windows are not energy efficient. So, for those homeowners whose main goal is to save money on their monthly energy bills by replacing their windows, aluminum replacement windows may not be the best option.

The thermal conductance of aluminum is high. Thus, aluminum windows may not work well in colder climates. Condensation or even frost forms inside the windows and can present a variety of problems. Using non-conductive material between the two panes can often offset some of the issues but, the break between the two panes needs to be at least 1/4-inch thick. There has to be a complete break between interior and exterior aluminum parts; otherwise a thermal bridge will be established, and you will lose heat. Definitely take this into consideration when evaluating aluminum windows pros and cons.

Author
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Philip A.

Philip Alexander is the founder and lead author at Pro Replacement Windows. Over the past decade Philip has served in various management capacities with several leading home improvement companies across the US, most recently with MESA. Philip combines a rich background in home renovation with a passion for helping homeowners navigate the remodeling process by providing the most accurate information and best deals. Outside of work, Philip enjoys working out, live sporting events, and exploring the latest trends in home improvement.

Aluminum Windows Pros and Cons The PROS