Aluminium windows are known for their strength and longevity, making them a popular choice for homeowners looking for a longer term solution. But how long do they actually last in real world conditions?

In this guide, we break down the typical lifespan of aluminium windows, what affects their durability and how they compare to other materials such as uPVC.

The average lifespan of aluminium windows

Aluminium windows are known for their durability and strength, and when properly installed, they can last for several decades without significant deterioration. In most cases, you can expect aluminium windows to last somewhere between 30 and 45 years, and often longer depending on the environment and how well they are maintained. This makes them one of the longer lasting options available and a popular choice for homeowners looking to invest in their property over the long term rather than opting for a shorter replacement cycle.

Why aluminium windows last so long

The longevity of aluminium windows comes down to the properties of the material itself, combined with modern manufacturing methods and finishes that are designed to withstand everyday use and exposure to the elements.

Aluminium is naturally strong and stable, meaning it does not expand, contract or warp to the same extent as some other materials when temperatures change. This helps frames maintain their shape over time, which in turn supports the performance of the glazing and seals. Modern aluminium windows are also finished using powder coating, which provides a durable outer layer that protects against moisture, UV exposure and general weathering, helping to preserve both appearance and structural integrity over many years.

Maintenance and upkeep over time

One of the reasons aluminium windows tend to last so long is that they require very little ongoing maintenance. Unlike timber frames, there is no need for repainting or regular treatment, and they are not prone to issues such as rot or swelling. In most cases, occasional cleaning of the frames and glass, along with keeping moving parts such as hinges and tracks clear of debris, is enough to keep them functioning as expected.

Over time, components such as seals or glazing units may need attention before the frame itself, but this is typical across most window types and does not usually impact the overall lifespan of the aluminium frame.

What affects the lifespan of aluminium windows

Although aluminium is a highly durable material, there are still a few factors that can influence how long your windows will last in practice.

The quality of the system itself plays a role, as well engineered systems such as AluK are designed to perform consistently over time. Installation is equally important, as poorly fitted windows can lead to issues such as drafts, water ingress or unnecessary strain on the frame. Environmental conditions can also have an impact, particularly in more exposed locations where windows are subject to higher levels of wind, rain or airborne salt.

In addition, while the aluminium frame is built to last, elements such as seals and glazing units may require replacement at some point to maintain thermal performance, which is something to be aware of when thinking long term.

How aluminium compares to uPVC over time

When comparing lifespan, aluminium windows generally outlast uPVC. While uPVC windows typically last around 20 to 30 years, aluminium windows can often last 30 to 45 years or more, making them a stronger long term option for many homeowners. However, lifespan is just one part of the decision, and factors such as cost, appearance and maintenance should also be considered.

If you are weighing up both materials in more detail, you can read our guide to the benefits of aluminium windows vs uPVC.

Appearance and performance over time

Modern aluminium windows are designed to retain both their performance and appearance over time. The powder coated finish used on most systems helps protect against fading, chipping and general wear, even when exposed to sunlight and changing weather conditions. While no material is completely immune to ageing, aluminium tends to hold up well compared to many alternatives, particularly when basic maintenance is carried out.

Long term value and investment

Because of their lifespan and durability, aluminium windows are often seen as a longer term investment. Although they typically come with a higher upfront cost than uPVC, their ability to maintain performance and appearance over time can make them more cost effective in the long run, particularly for homeowners who are planning to stay in their property.

If you are considering whether aluminium is the right choice overall, you can also read our guide on are aluminium windows worth it in 2026.

Exploring aluminium window options

If you are looking into aluminium windows in more detail, it can help to understand the different styles, finishes and glazing options available. Our aluminium windows page covers the different designs and configurations, helping you get a clearer idea of what might suit your home and project.

How long do aluminium windows last in practice?

In most cases, aluminium windows will last several decades, often outlasting other common window materials. Their strength, resistance to the elements and low maintenance requirements make them a reliable option for homeowners looking for a longer term solution, particularly where durability and consistent performance are important.

FAQs about aluminium window lifespan

Aluminium windows have become increasingly popular, particularly for extensions and home renovations. But are they actually worth the extra cost, or are they more of a design trend? In this guide, we break down the key benefits, potential drawbacks and how aluminium compares to other materials, so you can decide what is right for your home.

What are aluminium windows and how do they work?

Aluminium windows use slim metal frames instead of uPVC. Because aluminium is strong and lightweight, it allows for narrower frames and larger areas of glass. They are often chosen for more contemporary homes, but they are now being used across a wide range of property styles. Many modern aluminium systems, such as AluK, are designed to offer a balance between performance, appearance and longevity.

If you are still exploring options, our aluminium windows page looks at different styles and configurations in more detail.

Why are aluminium windows so popular?

Slimmer frames and more natural light

One of the main reasons people choose aluminium is the slimmer frame profile. This allows more natural light into the home and creates a cleaner, less bulky appearance compared to traditional window styles.

Strong, durable and long lasting

Aluminium is naturally strong and resistant to warping, swelling or cracking. This makes it particularly well suited to exposed areas and for larger window designs where structural strength is important.

Low maintenance over time

Unlike timber, aluminium does not require repainting or ongoing treatment. A simple clean is usually enough to keep frames looking good over time. If you’re interested in finding out more about their longevity you can read our blog post on how long do aluminium windows last here.

Works for both modern and older homes

While aluminium is often associated with modern design, it can work just as well on more traditional properties depending on the colour and finish chosen.

Are aluminium windows energy efficient?

This is a common concern, especially if you have heard older aluminium systems were less efficient. Modern systems use thermal breaks and high performance glazing to reduce heat loss and improve overall efficiency. With the right specification, aluminium windows can meet current building regulations and provide good levels of thermal performance.

If energy efficiency is a key factor for you, it is also worth comparing materials in our guide to the benefits of aluminium windows vs uPVC. You can also explore how different window types perform in our guide to the best energy efficient windows.

Aluminium vs uPVC windows – what is the difference?

Both aluminium and uPVC windows have their place, and the right choice depends on your priorities, budget and the type of project you are planning.

uPVC is typically more cost effective upfront and has become a widely used, reliable option across many different property types, making it a practical choice for standard replacements.

Aluminium, on the other hand, is often selected for its slimmer sightlines, which allow for larger glazed areas and a more contemporary overall appearance. It also lends itself well to modern designs and larger openings where strength and structure are important. Rather than one being better than the other, it usually comes down to what matters most for your home, whether that is upfront cost, aesthetics or long term performance.

Are aluminium windows more expensive?

Aluminium windows are generally more expensive than uPVC, particularly when comparing like for like sizes and specifications. However, they are often viewed as a longer term investment rather than a short term solution.

Their strength, durability and resistance to wear mean they tend to maintain both their performance and appearance over time, with minimal upkeep required. This can make them a more cost effective option over the long run for some homeowners. For others, the decision comes down to priorities. If keeping initial costs lower is the main factor, uPVC may be the more suitable choice. If the focus is on longevity, design flexibility and achieving a slimmer, more contemporary finish, aluminium is often worth considering.

How long do aluminium windows last?

One of the biggest advantages of aluminium is its lifespan. When properly installed and looked after, aluminium windows can last for several decades without significant deterioration, making them one of the more durable options available. The material itself is naturally resistant to rust and corrosion, and unlike some alternatives, it does not warp, swell or twist with changes in temperature. This stability helps the frames maintain their shape and performance over time, even in more exposed conditions.

Combined with modern finishes such as powder coating, which protect against weathering and fading, aluminium windows are well suited to long term use with very little ongoing maintenance required.

What are the common problems with aluminium windows?

It is normal to have a few concerns when considering a different material. Here are some of the most common ones.

Do aluminium windows feel cold?

Modern aluminium systems include thermal breaks that reduce heat transfer, helping to keep warmth inside during colder months.

Do aluminium windows get condensation?

Condensation is usually linked to ventilation and humidity levels in the home rather than the window material itself.

Good glazing specification and airflow play a bigger role here.

Are aluminium windows noisy?

With the right glazing, including acoustic glass if needed, aluminium windows can help reduce external noise just as effectively as other materials.

Do aluminium windows suit older houses?

While aluminium is often linked to modern homes, it can work well on older properties too.

The key is choosing the right colour and finish. Softer tones or heritage style designs can help aluminium sit more comfortably alongside traditional features.

When are aluminium windows a good choice?

Aluminium windows are often a strong option depending on the type of project you are planning and the overall look you want to achieve. They are particularly well suited to extensions and renovations, where larger openings and more glass can help transform a space.

If you are looking to maximise natural light, achieve a slimmer and more contemporary finish, or create feature windows that make a statement, aluminium is often the preferred choice. Their strength also makes them ideal for wider spans and more ambitious designs that may not be possible with other materials.

They can also work well alongside other aluminium products, such as sliding or bifold doors, helping to create a consistent look throughout the property.

Exploring aluminium window options

If you are still weighing up your options, it can help to look at different styles, configurations and glazing choices in more detail.

Our aluminium windows page covers the different designs available, along with finishes and performance options, to help you get a clearer picture of what might suit your home.

So, are aluminium windows worth it?

Aluminium windows are not the right choice for every home, but they offer clear advantages in terms of design flexibility, strength and lifespan.

Taking the time to compare materials and understand how they perform will help you make the right decision for your property.

Frequently asked questions about aluminium windows

Choosing a front door for a period home can feel tricky. How do you balance heritage charm with modern performance? Whether your house is in Rochester, Tunbridge Wells, Hastings or elsewhere across Kent and Sussex, this post will help you find styles that look right and perform well. At House of Glass, we supply composite doors, aluminium doors, and more, so let us walk through your options.

What makes a “period style” door?

Period style doors are typically characterised by traditional proportions, elegant panel layouts, and features like stained or patterned glazing. The right door enhances kerb appeal while keeping in character with the building.

Key features to look for:

• Sash proportions and decorative mouldings
• Glazing with leaded or frosted details
• Door furniture like traditional knockers or handles
• Heritage colour palettes such as deep greens, heritage reds, navy, and others

You may also find our post on which are the best energy efficient windows helpful when considering matching glazing.

Composite doors – a popular all rounder

Composite doors are a great choice for period homes because they mimic the look of timber while offering better insulation and security. Made from a combination of materials, they are strong, weather resistant, and low maintenance.

Benefits:

• Authentic timber appearance with no painting or warping
• Highly secure multipoint locking systems
• Available in a wide range of heritage colours and finishes
• Glass panels can include patterned, frosted, or stained designs

Pair a composite door with acoustic glazing or solar control glass to enhance comfort and performance.

Want to explore different finishes and styles? Try our composite door designer to customise your ideal front door before you commit.

Aluminium front doors with a heritage twist

While often seen as a modern option, aluminium doors can work beautifully in period properties, especially when finished in a heritage colour or paired with traditional glazing.

Benefits:

• Slim sightlines with high structural strength
• Powder coated finishes in any RAL colour
• Low maintenance and corrosion resistant
• Can include period style glazing and panelling

Explore our range of aluminium doors and consider combining them with modern conservatories or orangery extensions for a balanced upgrade.

uPVC and timber effect doors

For period homes on a tighter budget, uPVC doors offer great performance and can be finished to resemble traditional timber. Timber effect finishes work especially well for Victorian and Edwardian properties.

Benefits:

• Low cost with excellent thermal efficiency
• Wide range of woodgrain foils and panel styles
• Optional decorative glazing and sidelights
• Very low maintenance compared to real wood

Explore our range of uPVC doors, and consider flush casement windows or timber effect windows to complete the look.

Which style is right for your home?

When choosing a door for your period property, consider:

• Your budget and long term goals
• Whether the home is in a conservation area
• Desired colour, style, and hardware features
• Matching with existing windows and extensions

Use our quick checklist:

• Want a traditional look with modern performance? Choose composite
• Prefer a sleek, heritage look with durability? Choose aluminium
• Working to a budget with a need for flexibility? Choose uPVC

Frequently asked questions

Ready to compare options?

At House of Glass, we install composite, aluminium, and uPVC front doors across Kent, Sussex, and London. All our doors come with a ten year insurance backed guarantee, and our in house team is here to help you choose the perfect style for your home.

Contact us today to get your free, no obligation quote

Aluminium vs uPVC: what you need to know first

Choosing the right windows for your home is a big decision. Whether you are replacing ageing frames or planning an extension, it is natural to wonder whether aluminium or uPVC windows are the better option.

Both materials offer great performance, but they come with different strengths. At House of Glass, we supply and install high quality aluminium windows from Cortizo and uPVC windows from Eurocell – so we can give you an honest view of both.

What is the difference between aluminium and uPVC windows?

uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) is a type of durable plastic that has been widely used in British homes since the 1980s. It is low maintenance, weather resistant, and one of the most affordable options on the market.

Aluminium, on the other hand, is a sleek, slimline frame option that is stronger and longer lasting than uPVC. Thanks to modern thermal break technology, aluminium windows are now just as energy efficient too.

Still comparing glazing performance? You might also like our blog on which are the best energy efficient windows.

Benefits of aluminium windows

• Slim sightlines – aluminium allows for larger panes of glass and more natural light
• Modern appearance – ideal for contemporary builds or minimalist renovations
• Strong and durable – does not warp, crack, or discolour over time
• Low maintenance – needs only occasional cleaning to stay looking great
• Sustainable – aluminium is fully recyclable and has a long lifespan
• Perfect for large or custom windows – strength allows for oversized panes or unusual shapes

They also pair beautifully with other contemporary features such as aluminium bifold doors or modern conservatories.

Benefits of uPVC windows

• Cost effective – typically more budget friendly than aluminium
• Energy efficient – great thermal performance, especially with triple glazing
• Style options – available in a wide range of colours and finishes
• Traditional appeal – often a better match for period homes or conservation areas
• Low maintenance – no repainting or treatments required

You can also choose uPVC in flush casement styles, timber effect finishes, or even as sliding sash windows for added character.

Need help deciding? Our post on why choose double glazing may help you weigh the options further.

Which is better – aluminium or uPVC?

There is no single right answer – it depends on your home, budget, and personal style.

If you are aiming for a modern, minimalist look and want slim, high performance frames that will last for decades, aluminium windows are a smart investment.

If you are working to a tighter budget or live in a more traditional style home, uPVC windows offer excellent value without compromising on performance.

Both options can be fitted with acoustic glazing, solar control glass, or triple glazing for extra comfort and efficiency.

Frequently asked questions

Ready to compare options?

We install both aluminium and uPVC windows across Kent, South East London, and surrounding areas. All work is carried out by our in house team, backed by a ten year insurance guarantee and covered by FENSA certification.

No pushy sales, same day quotes, and honest advice from a local, family run team.

Contact us today to get your free, no obligation quote

Is your conservatory too hot to enjoy in summer?

If your conservatory feels more like a greenhouse than a relaxing living space during the warmer months, you are not alone. Many homeowners across Kent and the South East find their conservatories become uncomfortably hot in summer, especially if they still have an old polycarbonate roof or standard glazing.

The good news is that there are proven ways to cool your conservatory down and make it usable all year round.

Why do conservatories overheat in summer?

Conservatories are designed to let in lots of natural light, but without the right materials, that sunlight can turn into trapped heat. Common reasons include:

• Ageing polycarbonate roofing
• Poor ventilation or limited opening windows
• Standard glass with no solar control
• Older double glazing or even single glazing
• Dark furnishings that absorb heat

These issues are especially common in conservatories built over ten years ago and can make the space almost unusable during warmer weather.

If your roof is showing signs of age or underperformance, this easy guide to conservatory roof replacement might be a useful next read.

Quick fixes you can try

If you are looking for short term relief, here are a few simple measures to help cool things down:

• Roof blinds or thermal curtains to reduce glare and slow heat build up
• Portable air conditioning units to provide short bursts of cool air
• Ventilation through open windows and doors to encourage airflow
• Reflective window film to help bounce sunlight away

These solutions can offer temporary comfort, but they often fall short during heatwaves or in south facing properties.

Long term solutions that really work

If you are serious about making your conservatory comfortable in summer and winter, the most effective approach is to upgrade the roof or glazing.

Replace your roof with a warm conservatory roof

Warm roofing systems like the Supalite conservatory roof are designed to regulate temperature throughout the year. At House of Glass, we supply and install these systems across Kent and surrounding areas. They include:

• Thermally efficient tiled finishes
• Fully insulated plastered ceilings
• Optional integrated lighting
• Significant improvements in energy efficiency

A warm roof will not only keep your conservatory cooler in summer, it will also help retain warmth in winter and reduce your energy bills.

Choose a glass conservatory roof with solar control

If you still love the bright, airy feel of a glass conservatory roof, consider upgrading to the Supalite S2 glass roof system. This offers:

• Solar control glazing to reduce overheating
• Better insulation than older glass or polycarbonate
• Sleek modern aesthetics
• Options for self cleaning or tinted finishes

You could even combine it with a skypod for a bright, open feel with better ventilation and year round usability.

Improve your conservatory glazing

Even with a good roof, older windows can be a major source of heat. Upgrading to double or triple glazed windows with solar control glass can make a huge difference. We offer:

• uPVC windows for thermal efficiency and low maintenance
• Aluminium windows from Cortizo for a slim, modern look
• Acoustic and solar controlled glazing for comfort and noise reduction

You can also read more about the benefits of upgrading in our post on why choose double glazing.

Do I need a new conservatory or can I upgrade?

In most cases, you do not need to rebuild from scratch. We can upgrade your existing conservatory with a new roof or improved glazing, giving you a more usable space without the cost of a full replacement. Planning permission is often not needed either.

Learn more about our conservatory roof replacement services

Conservatory upgrades across Kent and the South East

From Maidstone to Tunbridge Wells, Sevenoaks to Orpington, we help homeowners across Kent, South East London, and surrounding areas transform their conservatories into spaces they can enjoy again.

House of Glass offers same day quotes, no pushy sales, and a ten year insurance backed guarantee. All our installers are FENSA registered, and we never use subcontractors.

Frequently asked questions

Ready to enjoy your conservatory again?

If you are tired of your conservatory being too hot to use, we are here to help. Speak to House of Glass for friendly advice, same day quoting, and expert installation throughout Kent and the South East.

Contact us today for your free, no obligation quote

Weighing up cost, design, planning and practicality to help you decide what works best for your home

A lot of people ask for information about adding extensions to the back of their properties. The same question almost always follows too – is an orangery cheaper than an extension?

So is an Orangery cheaper than an extension?

When making such an important decision (that’s going to impact the very place you call home) there will no doubt be a few things on your mind. In this post we have put together all the information you need to help you decide if an orangery is the better choice for you.

What’s The Difference between An Orangery And An Extension

Generally, extensions are made entirely of brick with standard windows installed. They are usually added to the back of your property and are built with a heavy tiled roof.

If you are thinking about adding a larger area to your second floor, extensions give the option of adding more vertical space compared to an orangery. As they are larger in size (because of the tiled roof or the second floor) it is a much bigger project to undertake and therefore takes a much longer time to complete.

Orangeries are only partly made of brick – adding to their robustness – but unlike extensions they are built with large areas of glazing too. The main benefit of an orangery is that they let in far more natural light through the window panels and from skypods installed onto the flat roof. For more information on why skypods are the perfect addition to your home improvement project get in touch with us.

Another benefit is that orangeries still acts as a solid extension to your home, giving you the option for electric lighting, plumbing and heating. This ensures that you get a comfy space that can be used night and day, throughout the year.

In many ways, an orangery sits nicely in-between a conservatory and a full extension, with the benefits of both. It has the openness and natural feel of a conservatory while also maintaining the robustness and adaptability of an extension. By now you should be getting a feel for the question is an Orangery cheaper than an Extension.

What About Planning Permission?

When extending your living space, waiting to get the green tick from the authorities can be a nerve-racking experience. If you are thinking about an extension, planning permission is nearly always needed as there are stricter regulations to take into account.

Orangeries may sometimes require planning permission, but are usually classified as ‘permitted development’, which means that you can increase your ground floor living space without having to apply for planning.

‘Permitted development’ usually falls under the following rules:

• The property hasn’t had a previous extension
• The materials used in the construction of your orangery are similar to the ones in your home
• The orangery doesn’t extend over half of your garden
• The height doesn’t reach any higher than your property’s roof eaves
• The height doesn’t exceed 4 metres (or 3 metres if within 2 metres of a boundary)
• If the orangery is on the side of your home, it must not reach beyond half the width of the property
• There can be no balconies or raised platforms present

If you need more help working out whether you will need planning permission, remember to book in a free no obligation quote with us. We can go through all of the details and we also help with the paperwork – should you need it!

What About Energy Efficiency?

As extensions are made mostly of brick and have a typical roof (with rafters, tiles and insulation) you might think that they are more energy efficient. However, this isn’t always the case and is often the case that makes an Orangery cheaper than an Extension in the longer term.

As they are larger (especially if they reach to the second floor) they take much longer to heat up and as they don’t have the same access to natural light, they also use far more electricity during the day. 

Our orangeries are built using some of the most energy efficient materials on the market. Our skypods also offer ‘Activ blue’ glazing to retain the sun’s heat and reflect harmful UV rays. This means that your orangery stays warm in the winter and cool in the summer.

The roofing materials used in an orangery are also just as effective as those on an extension, with added room for overhead lighting (so the space can be used at night) and high-performance insulation. 

So Which One Costs More To Build? Is an Orangery cheaper than an Extension?

Considering that an extension requires more materials, more time to process the planning application and more time to build, it’s probably no surprise to you that an orangery can be less expensive.

Ultimately, it comes down to how you plan on using the space created. If you need to add space to the second floor of your home then a traditional extension may be the better option for you. If you only need a ground floor extension then an orangery is by far the better choice, as it is so versatile it can be used for anything – a larger kitchen to enjoy, a playroom, an office, whatever your home needs.

Other Things To Consider

The other difference to talk about is aesthetics. Extensions and orangeries will both be designed to tie into your property’s current look, where similar materials will be chosen to match your property’s.

However, extensions normally require tiled roofs, where the materials can’t always be an exact match. This means that the roof tiles will normally look a little different to the existing ones.

This can sometimes (not as often) happen with the type of brick being used, but as an orangery uses far less brick than an extension the differences are far less visible.

As an orangery uses a flat roof system, to incorporate skypods and long-lasting weatherproofing, you are always left with a wonderfully modern, sleek addition to your home.

Get In Touch

At House of Glass we use 3D imaging to help you visualise how your new orangery will look. We can go through all of the necessary steps and handle all of the hard work so you enjoy the full potential of your home.

Call now for a free, no obligation quote.