If you’re in the market for new windows and doors, you should step back and figure out which material is the right choice for you and your home. As a homeowner, it can be overwhelming to choose from the many options available. Two popular choices are vinyl and aluminum, but each material comes with its own unique set of benefits and considerations, making it crucial to understand the differences. There’s a world of differences between vinyl and aluminum windows and doors, and when you understand those differences, you can choose what’s right for you and your home.

Durability                 

Vinyl windows and doors offer great durability, largely due to their PVC (polyvinyl chloride) construction. This material inherently resists a lot of hazards that could lead to wear and tear, such as:

• Moisture
• Pests
• Rotting
• Rusting

When you want long-lasting performance, vinyl is a great choice, but it’s not the best choice for homeowners who want a low-maintenance option that can withstand various environmental considerations. Aluminum windows and doors may be the best of the best when it comes to a durable solution for your home.

Aluminum is strong against extreme temperatures and sunlight, so it won’t warp, fade, or crack over time. But those aren’t the only benefits. Wind is another variable that windows and doors need to resist, and aluminum is the perfect choice for this, as it’s capable of withstanding high winds even during storms and hurricanes. Aluminum is also resistant to rust and corrosion due to its chemical composition. 

Energy-Efficiency                

Durability is a big variable to think about when choosing materials for your home, but it’s not the only one. You should also consider energy efficiency in your home. Vinyl is a great material with excellent insulation properties, significantly contributing to reducing your energy bills. 

As a result, vinyl windows and doors are highly effective in improving a home's overall energy efficiency. Still, their energy efficiency is nothing compared to that of aluminum. Aluminum windows with thermal breaks are even more energy efficient, and they’re recyclable, too, which takes their environmental friendliness up another notch.

Maintenance                

Another difference to consider is the maintenance requirements of aluminum and vinyl. Vinyl may have relatively low maintenance requirements, but aluminum is the top choice when it comes to a window and door option that requires minimal maintenance. Vinyl requires frequent cleanings with soap and water, while aluminum can look its best for years with the right protective treatments. When homeowners want a convenient choice that also looks good, they choose aluminum.

Cost, Cost, Cost                

Cost is another important difference to be aware of, but it’s not a decider. Typically, vinyl is less expensive than aluminum, making it a more budget-friendly option for many homeowners. However, despite the lower cost, modern vinyl is still incredibly durable and aesthetic. 

Aluminum is a pricier material for doors and windows, but that price reflects the strengths of the material. Aluminum will look good, stand the test of time, and give your home a sleek and contemporary feel. When you want something that’s minimal and provides you with unobstructed views, you may want to go for aluminum.

Appearance                

Both vinyl and aluminum windows and doors offer customization options to fit your home's style. Vinyl provides a wider range of colors and finishes, allowing homeowners to choose from various shades and textures. Vinyl can even mimic the look of wood, giving your home a classic feel without the maintenance associated with traditional wooden frames. This versatility makes vinyl a popular choice for homeowners seeking a specific aesthetic without compromising durability. 

Vinyl can look good, but aluminum windows and doors provide a more streamlined and modern appearance. A slimmer frame allows for larger panes of glass, resulting in more unobstructed views and much more natural light in your home. This contemporary look and feel is great for more modern architectural designs and urban settings.

Strength               

Another major difference between vinyl and aluminum is their strength. Aluminum is strong and can withstand harsh weather conditions better than most materials. The robust nature of aluminum frames makes them an ideal choice for areas prone to severe weather conditions, such as:

• Hurricanes
• Heavy snowfall
• Strong winds

The structural integrity of aluminum ensures that windows and doors remain secure and functional under extreme circumstances. However, modern vinyl windows and doors also meet the high industry standards that aluminum has set. 

Eco-Friendliness                

Eco-friendliness is an important variable to consider when you’re choosing between vinyl and aluminum. If it’s a variable that’s important to you, then you’ll want aluminum. Vinyl doesn’t use too many harmful chemicals during production, but it’s a lot harder to recycle. Vinyl is also non-biodegradable, so if you don’t opt for recycling, it will just sit in a landfill for years.

Aluminum doesn’t consume many chemicals during production, either, but it’s much easier to recycle than vinyl. It’s also biodegradable, so when you want a material that’s eco-friendly and that greatly contributes to low energy consumption, you want aluminum.

Installation                

Both vinyl and aluminum windows and doors are relatively easy to install, but vinyl may take less time due to its lightweight nature. This ease of installation can result in lower labor costs and quicker project completion, which is particularly beneficial for large-scale construction projects or renovations. Aluminum frames, on the other hand, are heavier. They require more time and effort to install. This additional effort translates into higher labor costs and potentially longer project timelines.

Customization                

If you want a customizable material for your windows and doors, you’ll want to opt for aluminum. Vinyl windows and doors are easy enough to customize, but their flexibility leaves something to be desired. Aluminum is the superior option in this regard. With aluminum, you can easily tailor your frames to fit the architectural style of your space, making them popular for contemporary homes and commercial buildings.

Return on Investment (ROI)                

Both vinyl and aluminum windows and doors can provide a good return on investment for homeowners by increasing the value of their property and improving energy efficiency. Energy-efficient windows can lead to significant savings on utility bills, reducing monthly expenses and making them attractive features for potential buyers. Additionally, the durability and low maintenance requirements of vinyl and aluminum frames ensure that homeowners get long-lasting value from their investment. Still, while both options have things going for them, aluminum comes out on top for the return on investment you’re looking for.

While both vinyl and aluminum are great choices for windows and doors, they have many differences, and understanding them helps you choose the right option. With the right choice, you can enhance your home’s overall look and functionality, but that’s not the only variable to consider. You also need to find the right custom window manufacturers , such as the experts at RAM Windows & Doors. With our years of experience on your side, taking your home to the next level is easy.