Choosing new windows is an important decision. They affect how your property looks, how comfortable it feels and how much maintenance it may require in the years ahead.
For homeowners in Reigate, one of the first decisions is often whether to choose aluminium or uPVC window frames.
Both materials can provide excellent energy efficiency, security and weather resistance when they are manufactured and installed to a high standard. However, they have different visual characteristics, practical benefits and price points.
Aluminium is often associated with slim frames, contemporary architecture and larger areas of glass. uPVC is known for its versatility, insulation and value for money. Neither material is automatically better in every situation.
The right option will depend on your property, priorities, budget and preferred style.
In this guide, we compare aluminium and uPVC replacement windows to help homeowners in Reigate make a more informed decision.
Which window material is best for Reigate homes?
For many Reigate homes, uPVC will be the most practical and cost-effective choice. It suits a wide variety of property styles, provides excellent insulation and is available in numerous colours and configurations.
Aluminium may be more suitable for contemporary homes, modern extensions and renovation projects where slim frames or larger panes of glass are important.
As a general guide:
- Choose uPVC for versatility, thermal efficiency and value.
- Choose aluminium for slim profiles, strength and a premium contemporary appearance.
- Consider the architecture of your property before deciding.
- Compare complete window specifications rather than focusing only on the frame material.
The quality of the glass, locks, seals, manufacturing and installation will also affect the finished result.
Understanding Reigate’s varied property styles
Reigate has a varied mix of homes, including period terraces, Victorian and Edwardian properties, traditional detached houses, post-war family homes, apartments and modern developments.
The town and surrounding areas also include larger homes that have been extended or substantially renovated.
This variety means that a window style that suits one Reigate property may look unsuitable on another.
A traditional red-brick house might suit coloured or woodgrain-effect uPVC casement windows. A modern extension with wide openings could benefit from slim aluminium frames and larger panes of glass.
Before choosing a material, consider:
- The age and architecture of the property
- The proportions of the existing window openings
- The colour and texture of the external walls
- Whether the house has traditional or contemporary features
- The appearance of neighbouring properties
- Any future plans for extensions or new doors
- Whether the property is subject to planning restrictions
The objective should be to choose windows that look like a natural part of the building.
What are uPVC windows?
uPVC is a durable form of plastic widely used for modern window frames. It does not require painting and is designed to withstand regular exposure to British weather.
Modern uPVC windows are available in a broad choice of designs. They can be used for standard casement windows, sliding sash windows, bay windows, tilt-and-turn windows and other configurations.
They can also be customised with different colours, glazing patterns and hardware.
Facelift offers 70mm slimline uPVC window options that reduce the amount of visible frame and allow more glass within the opening. This can help create a lighter and less bulky appearance.
What are aluminium windows?
Aluminium windows use strong metal frames that can support relatively large areas of glass without requiring excessively thick profiles.
Modern aluminium windows are designed with thermal breaks to reduce heat transfer through the frame. They are available with double or triple glazing and can be specified in a range of colours.
Their slim appearance makes aluminium particularly popular for:
- Contemporary homes
- Modern extensions
- Large window openings
- Garden-facing rooms
- Architectural renovation projects
- Steel-style window replacements
- Properties with matching aluminium doors
Aluminium can also work with traditional buildings when the frame style, colour and proportions are carefully selected.
Appearance and frame thickness
The visual difference between aluminium and uPVC is one of the biggest factors for many homeowners.
Aluminium window appearance
Aluminium frames are generally slimmer and more angular. Their strength allows manufacturers to create narrow profiles while supporting larger panes of glass.
This can provide:
- More visible glass
- Cleaner lines
- A modern architectural appearance
- Better views of the garden or surrounding area
- A stronger visual connection between indoor and outdoor spaces
Aluminium is particularly effective in contemporary extensions where homeowners want wide openings and minimal framing.
Dark finishes such as black or anthracite grey can create a striking modern appearance. Softer or lighter colours can help aluminium frames blend with more traditional elevations.
uPVC window appearance
uPVC frames are usually thicker than aluminium, although modern slimline options can reduce the difference.
The advantage of uPVC is its design versatility. It is available with sculptured, chamfered, flush and sash-style profiles, allowing it to complement many different property types.
uPVC can be a suitable choice for:
- Traditional family homes
- Period-style properties
- Bay windows
- Coloured casement windows
- Woodgrain-effect installations
- Properties where windows are being replaced like for like
The best appearance will depend on the frame proportions and configuration, not simply the material.
Which material is more energy-efficient?
Both modern aluminium and uPVC windows can provide good thermal performance.
uPVC is naturally a poor conductor of heat, which helps it provide effective insulation. Multi-chambered frames trap pockets of air within the profile and help reduce heat transfer.
Aluminium conducts heat more readily, but modern aluminium window systems include thermal breaks. These separate the internal and external sections of the frame and improve its insulating performance.
The overall energy efficiency of a window is influenced by:
- The frame construction
- Double or triple glazing
- The type of glass
- Gas between the panes
- Warm-edge spacer bars
- Weather seals
- The size of the glazed area
- The quality of installation
Facelift’s window range includes energy-efficient double and triple glazing options. The appropriate specification will depend on your home and what you want the new windows to achieve.
For most projects, it is better to compare the energy rating or whole-window performance of specific products rather than assuming one frame material will always outperform the other.
Which windows require less maintenance?
Both uPVC and aluminium require considerably less maintenance than traditional painted timber frames.
Maintaining uPVC windows
uPVC frames can normally be cleaned using warm water, a soft cloth and an appropriate non-abrasive cleaning product.
They do not require regular painting or staining. Hinges, locks and moving parts should still be inspected and maintained in accordance with the installer’s guidance.
Good-quality uPVC is designed to resist rot and corrosion. However, aggressive chemicals and abrasive cleaning materials should be avoided because they may damage the surface.
Maintaining aluminium windows
Aluminium is also low maintenance. Powder-coated frames are designed to retain their finish without repainting under normal conditions.
Routine care generally involves cleaning the frames, keeping drainage channels clear and checking the operation of hinges and locks.
Aluminium does not swell or warp because of changing moisture levels. This dimensional stability is particularly useful for larger windows and exposed positions.
For most homeowners, maintenance requirements are unlikely to be the deciding factor because both materials are easy to look after.
Durability and lifespan
Aluminium is extremely strong and dimensionally stable. It can support large panes of glass and withstand repeated exposure to changing weather conditions.
These characteristics make it a popular long-term choice for premium renovations and properties with large window openings.
uPVC is also durable when the frames are manufactured, fitted and maintained correctly. It has been widely used in UK homes for decades and offers reliable performance for everyday residential installations.
The practical lifespan of either material will depend on:
- Product quality
- Installation standards
- Exposure to weather
- Regular maintenance
- The quality of locks and hardware
- How frequently the windows are used
- Whether repairs are completed when required
Choosing an established installer and a properly specified product is therefore more important than making a decision based on material alone.
Security
Modern uPVC and aluminium windows can both include strong multi-point locking systems, internally glazed units and secure hardware.
Facelift’s aluminium windows are fitted with high-security multi-locking systems. Its uPVC Platinum NRG windows are internally glazed and supplied with multi-point locks as standard.
Additional security options may include laminated glass, suitable window restrictors and locking handles.
When comparing quotations, homeowners should ask about:
- The window locking system
- Internal or external glazing
- The security accreditation of the product
- The strength of the frame and hardware
- Laminated glass options
- Guarantees covering the installation
The overall security of a window depends on the complete system rather than whether the frame is aluminium or uPVC.
Colour and customisation options
White uPVC remains popular, but homeowners are no longer limited to a standard white frame.
Modern uPVC windows are available in traditional and contemporary colours, including woodgrain effects, soft neutrals, greens, greys and darker shades.
Aluminium windows are also available in an extensive selection of powder-coated finishes.
Facelift’s ColourTEK window service provides additional colour options for uPVC and aluminium windows and doors. This can be particularly helpful when coordinating windows with a new entrance door, bifold doors or other external features.
Some homeowners choose a different colour internally and externally. A darker external finish can complement the elevation, while a lighter internal frame may work better with the room decoration.
When choosing a colour, consider:
- Brick, stone, render or tile-hanging
- The colour of the roof
- The front door and garage door
- Fascias, soffits and guttering
- Internal decoration
- Whether the colour is likely to date quickly
- How the complete elevation will look
Which option is better for traditional Reigate homes?
uPVC is often the most straightforward choice for traditional properties because it is available in a wide variety of heritage-influenced styles.
Flush casement, sash-style and woodgrain-effect uPVC windows can provide a sympathetic appearance while offering modern insulation and security.
Aluminium should not be ruled out, however. Slim aluminium frames can suit early twentieth-century homes with steel-style windows or properties where a more understated frame is required.
For period or character properties, pay particular attention to:
- Frame thickness
- Sash proportions
- Glazing bar positions
- Opening configurations
- Sill details
- Colour
- Handles and hardware
- The balance between fixed and opening panes
Properties in conservation areas or listed buildings may also be subject to additional restrictions. Homeowners should check whether consent is required before making significant changes to the windows.
Which option is better for modern Reigate homes?
Aluminium is often chosen for modern properties because its slim profiles complement clean architectural lines.
It can be particularly effective for:
- Newly built homes
- Rear and side extensions
- Open-plan kitchens
- Large family rooms
- Floor-to-ceiling glazing
- Garden-facing elevations
- Projects with aluminium bifold or sliding doors
Matching aluminium windows and doors can create a consistent finish across a modern extension.
uPVC can still be appropriate for contemporary homes, particularly where value, thermal efficiency and practical everyday performance are the main priorities. Slimline uPVC frames in grey, black or another modern colour can create a smart appearance at a lower cost than many aluminium systems.
Which is better for a home extension?
Aluminium is often the preferred option for contemporary extensions because it supports large areas of glass and can match aluminium bifold or sliding doors.
This can help create:
- A coordinated glazing scheme
- Slimmer visible frames
- More natural light
- Wider garden views
- A premium architectural finish
For a more traditionally styled extension, uPVC may be a better visual match for the existing property.
The windows do not necessarily need to use the same material throughout the entire home. Some homeowners retain uPVC windows in the original house and use aluminium glazing in a modern rear extension.
Where different materials are combined, the colours and sightlines should be carefully coordinated.
For further ideas, read Facelift’s guide to slimline aluminium windows for contemporary extensions in Crawley and Burgess Hill.
Is aluminium more expensive than uPVC?
Aluminium windows generally cost more than comparable uPVC windows.
The difference reflects the material, manufacturing process, frame construction and type of finish. Bespoke colours, unusual configurations, large panes and specialist glazing can also increase the overall cost.
uPVC is normally the more economical option, making it popular for whole-house window replacement projects.
However, price should be considered alongside:
- The expected lifespan
- The appearance of the frames
- Maintenance requirements
- Energy performance
- The number and size of the windows
- The value of the property
- Future renovation plans
- Matching doors or extensions
The cheapest initial quotation does not always represent the best long-term value. Quotations should be compared using similar specifications, guarantees and installation standards.
Can aluminium and uPVC windows be used together?
Yes. Aluminium and uPVC can be used successfully on the same property.
A homeowner might choose uPVC for standard bedroom and front-elevation windows while using aluminium for a large kitchen extension or garden-facing opening.
This approach can control costs while providing a premium finish in areas where slim frames and large panes make the greatest visual difference.
Successful combinations depend on careful design. Consider matching or coordinating:
- External colours
- Frame depth
- Glazing style
- Handle finishes
- Window heights
- Door frames
- Rooflights and other glazed features
A window surveyor can help establish whether mixing materials will look balanced.
Double or triple glazing?
Both aluminium and uPVC windows can be supplied with double or triple glazing.
Modern double glazing will be suitable for many Reigate homes. Triple glazing may be considered where the homeowner wants additional insulation or sound reduction, although the result will depend on the complete window specification.
Factors to consider include:
- The property’s current insulation
- The direction the windows face
- Nearby roads or other noise sources
- Room use
- Ventilation
- Window size
- Budget
- The performance of the chosen frame system
Read Facelift’s double glazing versus triple glazing guide for a more detailed comparison.
Key questions to ask before deciding
Before choosing between aluminium and uPVC windows, ask:
- Which material best complements the architecture of the property?
- How much visible frame will there be?
- What energy rating does the complete window achieve?
- Which colours and finishes are available?
- Can the windows match any proposed new doors?
- What locking system is included?
- Are double and triple-glazed options available?
- What maintenance will be required?
- What guarantees are provided?
- Can I see physical frame and colour samples?
- Will the windows be made to measure?
- Who will carry out the installation?
Looking at samples is important because colours, textures and frame sizes can appear different in person than they do on a screen.
Aluminium or uPVC: a simple comparison
Choose aluminium windows when:
- Slim frames are a priority
- You want larger panes of glass
- The property has a contemporary appearance
- You are building a modern extension
- You want to coordinate with aluminium doors
- Strength and dimensional stability are important
- You prefer a crisp, architectural finish
Choose uPVC windows when:
- Value for money is a priority
- You want strong thermal performance
- You are replacing windows throughout the property
- The home has a traditional or versatile architectural style
- You want a wide choice of frame designs
- You prefer woodgrain or heritage-style finishes
- You need a practical, low-maintenance solution
This is a general guide. The final choice should be based on the specific window system and the individual property.
Why choose Facelift for replacement windows in Reigate?
Facelift Home Improvements is a local, family-run company established in 1997. The team supplies and installs energy-efficient windows across Surrey, West Sussex and East Sussex.
Facelift offers:
- uPVC windows
- Aluminium windows
- Casement windows
- Sash windows
- Double glazing
- Triple glazing
- Slimline frame options
- Bespoke colours
- Decorative and obscure glass
- High-security locking systems
- Made-to-measure installations
Facelift is FENSA registered, and qualifying window installations are supported by a ten-year insurance-backed guarantee.
As Facelift also installs entrance and garden doors and undertakes wider property renovation work, the team can help coordinate windows with a more extensive home improvement project.
Arrange a replacement window quotation in Reigate
Aluminium and uPVC are both strong choices for replacement windows, but they suit different homes and priorities.
uPVC provides excellent versatility, insulation and value. Aluminium provides slim profiles, strength and a premium modern appearance.
The best way to make a decision is to compare suitable frame samples, colours and complete window specifications in the context of your own property.
Facelift can survey your Reigate home, discuss your preferred appearance and explain the practical differences between suitable aluminium and uPVC window systems.
To arrange a free, no-obligation quotation, contact Facelift Home Improvements.
Frequently asked questions
Are aluminium windows better than uPVC windows?
Not necessarily. Aluminium is stronger and normally provides slimmer frames, while uPVC is generally more economical and offers excellent insulation. The best choice depends on the property, budget and desired appearance.
Which windows are best for a traditional Reigate home?
Heritage-style uPVC casement or sash windows can suit many traditional homes. Aluminium may be appropriate where the property originally featured slim steel-style frames or where a less bulky appearance is preferred.
Which windows are best for a modern extension?
Aluminium is a popular option for contemporary extensions because its strength allows slimmer frames and larger panes of glass. It can also be coordinated with aluminium bifold or sliding doors.
Are aluminium windows energy-efficient?
Modern aluminium window systems include thermal breaks that improve insulation. Their performance should be assessed using the energy rating or complete product specification rather than the frame material alone.
Are uPVC windows available in colours other than white?
Yes. uPVC windows are available in various colours, woodgrain effects and custom finishes. Facelift’s ColourTEK service provides an extensive choice for both uPVC and aluminium frames.
Do aluminium windows cause condensation?
Condensation is affected by indoor humidity, ventilation, surface temperature and the overall window specification. Modern thermally broken aluminium frames are designed to reduce heat transfer, but no window can prevent condensation caused by excessive moisture in the home.
Can aluminium windows match aluminium doors?
Yes. Aluminium windows can often be specified in coordinating colours and profiles to complement bifold, sliding, French or entrance doors.
Is uPVC cheaper than aluminium?
uPVC windows generally have a lower initial cost than aluminium. The exact price depends on the style, colour, glass, hardware, number of windows and complexity of the installation.
Can I mix aluminium and uPVC windows?
Yes. Some homeowners use uPVC in the original part of the property and aluminium in a modern extension. Colours, proportions and sightlines should be coordinated to produce a balanced result.
How do I get a quotation for new windows in Reigate?
Arrange a property survey with Facelift Home Improvements. The team can inspect the openings, discuss your priorities and provide a quotation based on the chosen material, frame style, glazing and installation requirements.
