When it comes to replacing or upgrading your windows in Perth, one of the most important decisions you’ll face is choosing between aluminium and uPVC frames. While both materials have their place, modern thermally broken aluminium windows have emerged as the superior choice for most Perth homes, delivering exceptional energy efficiency, sound insulation, durability, and timeless aesthetic appeal.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare these two popular window frame materials across all the factors that matter most to Perth homeowners, from energy efficiency and durability to cost and aesthetics. By the end, you’ll understand why thermally broken aluminium windows represent the optimal investment for Perth’s unique climate and lifestyle.
Why Your Window Frame Choice Matters in Perth
Perth’s climate is unique. With scorching summers that regularly push temperatures above 35°C, mild winters, and intense UV exposure year-round, your windows need to perform under demanding conditions. The frame material you choose affects:
- Energy efficiency: How well your home retains cool air in summer and warmth in winter
- Comfort: Temperature consistency and noise reduction, particularly if you live near busy roads
- Noise control: Reducing external sound from traffic, neighbours, and urban environments
- Security: Protection against break-ins with strong frames and advanced locking systems
- Durability: How the frames hold up against Perth’s harsh sun, coastal salt air (if applicable), and temperature fluctuations
- Long-term value: Maintenance requirements and lifespan
Choosing the right window frames isn’t just about looks. It’s about creating a comfortable, energy-efficient home that stands the test of time. Whether you’re building new or renovating, understanding your options is the first step.
Explore our full range of windows designed specifically for Western Australian conditions.
Aluminium Windows – Pros and Cons
Aluminium has been a popular choice for Australian homes for decades, valued for its strength, slim profiles, and modern aesthetic.
Pros of Aluminium Windows
Exceptional Thermal Insulation
Modern thermally broken aluminium windows deliver outstanding thermal insulation that matches or exceeds uPVC performance. The engineered thermal break interrupts heat transfer through the frame, while double glazing blocks heat transmission through the glass. This combination keeps your home cooler in Perth’s hot summers and warmer in winter, significantly reducing energy costs and reliance on air conditioning. You get superior thermal comfort without compromising on strength or aesthetics.
Excellent Noise Reduction
Double glazed aluminium windows provide exceptional noise reduction, often reducing external noise by 30-40 decibels. If you live near busy roads, flight paths, or in high-density areas, thermally broken aluminium frames combined with properly specified double glazed units create an effective acoustic barrier. The double glazing itself provides the majority of sound insulation, and when paired with quality aluminium frames, you achieve peaceful, quiet living spaces.
Superior Security
Aluminium’s exceptional strength makes it the premium choice for home security. The robust frame construction resists forced entry far better than uPVC, and aluminium frames can accommodate multi-point locking systems and advanced security hardware. For Perth homeowners concerned about property security, aluminium windows provide peace of mind alongside performance. The inherent strength of aluminium means frames won’t flex or warp under pressure, making break-ins significantly more difficult.
Sleek, Modern Design Appeal
Aluminium frames can be manufactured with exceptionally slim sightlines, maximising your glass area and creating a minimalist, contemporary look. This makes them ideal for modern architectural styles and homes with large glass panels.
Strong Structural Integrity
Aluminium is incredibly strong relative to its weight, allowing for larger window spans and floor-to-ceiling glass installations without compromising structural support. This strength makes it perfect for expansive views and open-plan designs popular in Perth homes.
Ideal for Large Panes
Because of its strength-to-weight ratio, aluminium easily supports large, heavy glass panels, including double glazed windows that provide enhanced thermal comfort and energy efficiency.
Low-Profile Frame
The slim frames mean more glass and less frame, which translates to better natural light penetration and unobstructed views. This is a significant advantage for Perth homes looking to maximise indoor-outdoor connections.
Longevity
When properly maintained and powder-coated, aluminium windows can last 30-45 years, making them a solid long-term investment.
Cons of Non-Thermally Broken Aluminium Windows
Thermal Conductivity (Solved by Modern Technology)
Aluminium is a metal, which means older aluminium windows without thermal breaks could conduct heat. However, this is a non-issue with modern thermally broken aluminium windows. The thermal break is an insulating barrier engineered into the frame, and it completely interrupts heat transfer, making contemporary aluminium windows as energy-efficient as uPVC when properly specified.
Coastal Environment Considerations
In coastal suburbs like Cottesloe, Scarborough, or Fremantle, aluminium should be specified with marine-grade powder coating to ensure optimal corrosion resistance. When properly treated, aluminium performs excellently in coastal conditions while maintaining its premium appearance. This is a specification detail rather than a material limitation. Work with experienced suppliers who understand coastal requirements.
Higher Initial Investment
Quality aluminium windows typically cost 15-30% more upfront than uPVC. However, this premium is offset by longer lifespan (30-45 years vs 25-35 years), lower maintenance costs, better resale value, and superior aesthetics. When you calculate cost-per-year over the window’s lifetime, aluminium often represents better value.
uPVC Windows – Pros and Cons
uPVC (unplasticised polyvinyl chloride) windows have grown in popularity in Australia, particularly among homeowners prioritising affordability.
Pros of uPVC Windows
Low Maintenance
uPVC doesn’t rust, rot, or require repainting. A simple wipe-down with soapy water is typically all that’s needed to keep them looking fresh. For time-poor homeowners, this is an advantage. Aluminium windows are also very low-maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning and hardware lubrication.
More Affordable Upfront
uPVC windows generally cost 15-30% less than comparable thermally broken aluminium options, making them an attractive choice for budget-conscious renovators or those replacing multiple windows. This lower initial cost is the primary advantage of uPVC over aluminium.
Good Corrosion Resistance
uPVC is completely unaffected by salt air without any additional treatment. Marine-grade powder-coated aluminium also performs excellently in coastal environments when properly specified, providing comparable corrosion resistance with superior structural strength and aesthetics.
Cons of uPVC Windows
Bulkier Frame Profiles
uPVC frames are typically thicker than aluminium to achieve the same structural integrity. This means less glass area and more visible frame, which can impact aesthetics, particularly in heritage or character homes where slim sightlines are desirable.
Limited Colour and Design Options
While uPVC windows come in several colours (white, cream, and various woodgrain finishes), the range is more limited than powder-coated aluminium. Custom colours are also less readily available.
Potential Heat Degradation
Lower-quality uPVC can warp, discolour, or degrade when exposed to extreme heat and UV radiation over extended periods. However, high-quality, Australian-certified uPVC products are formulated to withstand harsh conditions and should not experience these issues. Always check for certifications and ask about UV stabilisation when considering uPVC windows.
Structural Limitations
uPVC cannot support very large or heavy glass panels as effectively as aluminium, which may limit your design options if you’re planning expansive glass installations.
Perth Climate Considerations: Thermal & Acoustic Performance
Perth’s Mediterranean climate presents specific challenges that should influence your window choice. Modern aluminium windows are engineered specifically to excel in these conditions.
Summer Heat Management
With average summer temperatures hovering around 30°C and frequent days exceeding 35-40°C, keeping your home cool is a priority. Thermally broken aluminium windows with double glazing create a powerful barrier against Perth’s heat. The thermal break interrupts heat transfer through the frame, while double glazing blocks heat transmission through the glass. Together, they deliver exceptional thermal performance that keeps your home comfortable and reduces energy costs by 20-40%.
The combination of insulating frames and double glazing in quality aluminium windows exceeds uPVC performance while offering superior strength and aesthetics.
Acoustic Performance and Noise Control
If you live in urban Perth suburbs like Mount Lawley, Subiaco, or near major roads, noise can be a genuine concern. While uPVC’s multi-chambered design provides good sound dampening, double glazed aluminium windows deliver excellent noise reduction, often reducing external noise by 30-40 decibels. The key is the double glazing itself, which creates an acoustic barrier regardless of frame material.
With properly specified double glazed units (especially with different glass thicknesses to target different sound frequencies), aluminium windows provide outstanding sound insulation for peaceful Perth living.
UV Protection
Perth experiences some of the highest UV radiation levels in the world. Quality aluminium windows use advanced powder coating with UV inhibitors that resist fading, chalking, and degradation for decades. This superior finish outlasts even the best uPVC formulations, maintaining its appearance for 30-45 years.
Coastal Considerations
For homes within 5km of the coast, corrosion resistance is crucial. While uPVC naturally resists salt air, marine-grade powder-coated aluminium also performs exceptionally well in coastal environments when properly specified and installed. The key is working with experienced suppliers who understand coastal requirements. The benefit is you get coastal durability without sacrificing the sleek aesthetics and structural strength that only aluminium provides.
Don’t forget that your window choice also impacts doors, particularly sliding or French doors that form part of your home’s facade. Aluminium’s strength makes it ideal for large door panels that need to operate smoothly for years.
Aluminium vs uPVC – Cost Comparison
Understanding the financial investment helps you make an informed decision. Here’s how the two materials stack up:
| Feature | Aluminium | uPVC |
|---|---|---|
| Initial Cost | Higher ($800-$1,500+ per m²) | Lower ($600-$1,200 per m²) |
| Installation | Similar for both | Similar for both |
| Maintenance | Very low (powder coating lasts 30+ years) | Very low (minimal cleaning only) |
| Lifespan | 30-45 years | 15-25 years (quality dependent) |
| Energy Savings | Excellent (with thermal breaks & double glazing) | Average (natural insulation) |
| Repair Costs | Low (durable, rarely needs repairs) | Low to moderate |
| Resale Value Impact | High (premium aesthetic, sought-after) | Moderate |
| Cost Per Year | $18-$35/m²/year | $17-$34/m²/year |
Long-Term Value Consideration
While uPVC has a lower upfront cost, aluminium’s longer lifespan (often 10+ years more), superior durability, premium appearance, and better resale value make it the smarter long-term investment. When you calculate cost-per-year over the window’s lifetime, the difference is minimal, and you get significantly better aesthetics, strength, and property value enhancement with aluminium.
The energy savings from thermally broken aluminium windows with double glazing can offset the initial cost difference within 10-15 years, and you’ll still have another 15-30 years of use remaining.
Want a detailed quote tailored to your home? Contact our team today to discuss your specific requirements and budget.
Which Is More Durable in Perth Conditions?
Perth’s climate demands window frames that can withstand intense sun, temperature extremes, and (in coastal areas) salty air.
UV Resistance
Both materials can handle Perth’s UV exposure when properly manufactured. Quality aluminium windows use powder coating with UV inhibitors, while good uPVC includes UV stabilisers mixed into the material during production. Inferior products of either type may fade, chalk, or degrade over time.
Salt Air and Coastal Durability
If you live in coastal suburbs (Cottesloe, Scarborough, Mandurah, or anywhere within 5km of the ocean), both materials can perform well with the right specifications. uPVC offers complete resistance to corrosion without any special treatment required. Aluminium can also deliver excellent coastal performance when specified with marine-grade powder coating, though it does require more regular maintenance and inspection to ensure the protective coating remains intact. Both options have proven track records in Perth’s coastal environments when properly selected and maintained.
Temperature Fluctuations
Perth’s hot days and cool nights cause expansion and contraction in building materials. Both aluminium and quality uPVC handle this well, though aluminium’s strength means it’s less likely to warp or distort over time.
Expected Lifespan
- Aluminium: 30-45 years with proper maintenance
- uPVC: 25-35 years, depending on quality and exposure
Maintenance Requirements
- Aluminium: Occasional cleaning, check and lubricate hardware, inspect powder coating
- uPVC: Minimal, just periodic cleaning and hardware checks
When evaluating window durability comparison, consider your specific location and how much maintenance effort you’re willing to invest.
Energy Efficiency and Insulation
With Perth’s energy costs continuing to rise and environmental concerns top-of-mind for many homeowners, energy efficiency is a crucial consideration.
Thermal Break Technology in Aluminium
This is where modern aluminium windows have completely changed the game. Thermal breaks are insulating barriers engineered into the aluminium frame that interrupt heat transfer between the interior and exterior. This technology eliminates aluminium’s traditional weakness, transforming it into a highly efficient thermal performer that matches and often exceeds standard uPVC performance.
The result? Thermally broken aluminium windows deliver exceptional insulation while maintaining the material’s structural and aesthetic advantages.
uPVC’s Natural Insulation
uPVC’s multi-chambered design traps air within the frame, creating natural thermal insulation. While this performs well, it’s important to note that when aluminium features thermal breaks, the performance gap narrows significantly. Aluminium maintains its edge in strength, longevity, and appearance.
Double Glazing: The Ultimate Combination
Both materials work beautifully with double glazing, but thermally broken aluminium frames paired with double glazed units represent the premium solution. This combination reduces heat transfer through both the frame and glass by up to 50-70%, creating a highly efficient thermal envelope that keeps Perth homes comfortable year-round.
Real-World Performance
In Perth’s climate, a home with double glazed thermally broken aluminium windows can reduce air conditioning costs by 20-40% compared to single-glazed windows. This translates to hundreds of dollars in annual savings, which compounds over the life of the windows. When you factor in aluminium’s 30-45 year lifespan compared to uPVC’s 25-35 years, the long-term value proposition becomes even clearer.
Condensation Reduction
Both frame types, when properly installed with double glazing, virtually eliminate condensation issues that plague single-glazed windows in air-conditioned Perth homes.
The investment in thermal insulation windows pays dividends not just in comfort but in measurable cost savings year after year. With modern thermal break technology, aluminium windows deliver world-class energy efficiency without compromising on style or durability.
Discover which window performs better for your suburb. Reach out to our experts for personalised recommendations.
Visual Appeal & Home Aesthetics
Your windows significantly influence your home’s character and street appeal, and the frame material plays a major role in the overall aesthetic.
Colour Options and Flexibility
Aluminium windows can be powder-coated in virtually any colour, allowing perfect matching with your home’s palette, from crisp whites and timeless blacks to bold contemporary hues or natural anodised finishes. uPVC offers fewer options, typically limited to white, cream, grey, and various woodgrain laminates. However, these cover most traditional styles effectively.
Modern vs Traditional Homes
- Contemporary/Modern: Aluminium’s slim profiles and clean lines are ideal for minimalist designs, creating a seamless indoor-outdoor aesthetic popular in Perth’s newer developments
- Traditional/Heritage: While both materials can work, uPVC in woodgrain finishes often suits period homes better, though aluminium in appropriate colours can also be effective
- Mid-Century/Character: Aluminium typically edges ahead here due to its ability to replicate the slim steel windows of the era
Perth Architectural Trends
Perth’s residential architecture increasingly favours large glass expanses, floor-to-ceiling windows, and blurred indoor-outdoor boundaries. Aluminium’s strength-to-weight ratio makes it the go-to choice for these applications.
Style Flexibility
Both materials can be manufactured in various operating styles, such as sliding, casement, awning, fixed, and more. Your choice of frame material won’t limit your functional options.
Resale Considerations
Quality windows boost property value regardless of material. However, aluminium windows in premium homes often command better returns, contributing to higher resale value, while uPVC offers excellent value in entry-level and mid-market properties.
When to Choose Aluminium vs When to Choose uPVC
For most Perth homeowners, thermally broken aluminium windows with double glazing represent the optimal choice, offering superior longevity, performance, and aesthetic appeal. However, there are specific scenarios where each material shines.
Choose Aluminium Windows If:
- You want the best long-term investment (30-45 year lifespan, premium resale value)
- Energy efficiency is important. Thermally broken aluminium with double glazing delivers exceptional performance
- Sound insulation matters. Double glazed aluminium windows provide outstanding noise reduction
- You’re building or renovating a modern, contemporary home where aesthetics are paramount
- You want large window spans, floor-to-ceiling glass, or minimal sightlines
- Your home’s architectural style calls for slim, sleek frames
- You want maximum colour customisation options
- Security is a priority. Aluminium frames offer excellent strength and can accommodate advanced locking systems
- You value premium quality that maintains its appearance for decades
- You’re investing in your home’s resale value
In short: If you want windows that perform excellently across every measure (energy efficiency, sound insulation, durability, aesthetics, and long-term value), thermally broken aluminium is the clear choice.
Consider uPVC Windows If:
- Budget is your absolute primary concern and you need to minimise upfront costs
- You specifically prefer traditional aesthetics with woodgrain finishes
- You’re replacing windows in a rental property or budget renovation where longevity is less critical
- You want the absolute lowest maintenance option (though aluminium is also very low-maintenance)
The Reality for Perth Homes
Most Perth homeowners choose aluminium because it delivers superior performance across the board when properly specified. The thermal break technology has eliminated aluminium’s historical weakness, making it competitive on energy efficiency while retaining all its traditional strengths in durability, aesthetics, and structural capability.
Comparison Table
| Consideration | Better Choice | Why |
|---|---|---|
| Long-Term Value | Aluminium | 30-45 year lifespan, better resale value |
| Modern Aesthetic | Aluminium | Slimmer profiles, contemporary look |
| Energy Efficiency | Aluminium | Excellent performance |
| Large Windows | Aluminium | Superior structural strength |
| Tight Budget | uPVC | 15-30% lower upfront cost |
| Design Flexibility | Aluminium | Unlimited colour options |
| Sound Insulation | Aluminium | Excellent noise reduction |
| Durability | Aluminium | Longer lifespan, superior UV resistance |
| Coastal Homes | Both | Aluminium (marine-grade) or uPVC both perform well |
Still unsure? Contact our experts to discuss your window goals, home style, and budget. We’ll help you make the right choice for your Perth property. For most homes, thermally broken aluminium windows deliver unmatched performance and value.
FAQs
Are uPVC windows good in Australian heat?
Yes, quality uPVC windows are specifically formulated for Australian conditions. Look for products with UV stabilisers that prevent degradation, warping, and discolouration in Perth’s harsh sun. Australian-certified uPVC windows are tested to withstand extreme temperatures and UV exposure.
Do aluminium windows get hot in summer?
Standard aluminium frames can conduct heat, but modern aluminium windows feature thermal breaks, which are insulating barriers that significantly reduce heat transfer. When combined with double glazing, thermally broken aluminium windows perform excellently in Perth’s hot climate.
Which window type is cheaper to maintain?
uPVC requires the least maintenance, just occasional cleaning. Aluminium needs slightly more attention, including checking powder coating and lubricating hardware, but both are low-maintenance compared to timber windows.
How long do uPVC windows last in Perth?
Quality uPVC windows typically last 25-35 years in Perth conditions when properly installed and made from UV-stabilized materials. Aluminium windows can last 30-45 years with appropriate maintenance.
Are uPVC windows more energy-efficient than aluminium?
Not when comparing modern products properly. uPVC has naturally good insulation properties, but thermally broken aluminium windows exceed this performance. The thermal break technology in quality aluminium windows creates an insulating barrier that delivers exceptional energy efficiency, often achieving better results than standard uPVC. When both materials are paired with double glazing, performance is virtually identical, with aluminium offering the added benefits of superior strength, longevity, and aesthetics.
Can I paint or change the colour of uPVC windows later?
While technically possible, it’s not recommended. uPVC is designed to be maintenance-free and painting requires special preparation and paint types. If colour flexibility matters to you, aluminium’s powder coating options are the better choice.
Final Thoughts – Making the Right Choice for Your Home
Both aluminium and uPVC windows offer genuine benefits for Perth homes, but for most homeowners, thermally broken aluminium windows represent the superior long-term investment.
Modern aluminium windows excel in every key area:
- With thermal break technology and double glazing, they deliver energy efficiency that matches or exceeds uPVC
- They provide excellent sound insulation when properly specified with double glazed units
- Their slim, contemporary profiles suit Perth’s architectural trends perfectly
- They offer unmatched durability, lasting 30-45 years with minimal maintenance
- The design flexibility and colour options let you achieve exactly the look you want
- Their strength enables expansive glass areas that maximise natural light and views
Consider uPVC primarily if you’re working with a very tight budget and aesthetics are secondary, or if you specifically need woodgrain finishes for a period-style home. Even then, remember that aluminium’s longer lifespan and premium appearance often provide better value over time.
For Perth homeowners seeking the best combination of performance, style, and longevity, thermally broken aluminium windows with double glazing deliver optimal thermal comfort, noise reduction, and energy savings while maintaining their premium appearance for decades.
Whatever you choose, ensure you’re working with experienced installers who understand Perth’s climate and can properly specify and install windows for maximum performance and durability.
Ready to upgrade your windows? Browse our full range of aluminium and uPVC windows or get in touch for expert advice today. Our team understands Perth homes and can help you make the right choice for your property, lifestyle, and budget.
Looking for more information on how quality windows can transform your home? Explore our guides on condensation reduction, security features, and how the right windows can boost your property’s resale value.
