uPVC vs Aluminium vs Timber Windows: Which Is Best?
14 December 2025 · 6 min read
uPVC, aluminium or timber? Each frame material has real trade-offs. Here's an honest comparison to help you decide.
uPVC — the practical all-rounder
uPVC is the most popular choice for good reason: it is affordable, low-maintenance, well-insulated, and available in white, woodgrain and coloured finishes. It never needs painting and resists rot and weathering for many years.
It is the default sensible choice for most homes where budget and easy upkeep matter most.
Aluminium — slim and modern
Aluminium frames are strong yet slim, allowing more glass and a sleek, contemporary look. Powder-coated finishes are extremely durable and come in almost any colour. Modern 'thermally broken' aluminium is well insulated, though typically pricier than uPVC.
It suits modern extensions, large windows, and commercial-style designs.
Timber — traditional character
Timber offers unbeatable character and is often required or preferred in period and conservation-area properties. It insulates well and can last decades if maintained, but it does need periodic painting or treating to keep it in good condition.
Whichever you choose, the glass specification matters as much as the frame — we can advise on both.
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