Are uPVC or Aluminium Windows Better in Heritage Properties?

Working across the beautiful county of Somerset for over 20 years means that we’ve had the privilege of visiting some stunning heritage properties.

In the UK, many buildings with designated cultural or historical significance are listed and protected under law and there are often restrictions as to the renovations that can be undertaken and guidelines on the permitted materials that can be used.

Older properties that have heritage value but are not listed offer greater freedom with regards to improvements and modifications. When maintaining the integrity of the property, the impact of any changes needs to be carefully considered. Expert guidance is key to helping homeowners find solutions and ideas that meet their design and budget needs.

We’ve been consulted many times on suitable door, window and conservatory options for heritage properties. Many customers want to explore ways in which a specific look or time period aesthetic can be maintained whilst gaining better insulation and security.The most commonly used materials for windows are uPVC and aluminium. Both offer different benefits and drawbacks for heritage style properties and it’s important to undertake research and consider the effect you want to create or maintain before embarking on a project. Below we’ve outlined some of the key information on these two primary choices for heritage homes.

Aluminium Windows for Heritage Homes

Advances in manufacturing now mean that aluminium windows, once the preserve of commercial buildings, offer a similar rate of insulation and energy efficiency to uPVC windows. Making them far more suitable for residential properties and offering customers more choice when it comes to home improvements on both contemporary and older houses.

Robust, sleek and hard wearing, aluminium frames are thinner than those used for uPVC windows, which means that the glass area is larger, allowing more light in. If your heritage home has lower ceilings and smaller window apertures, aluminium frames could be an excellent choice if your aim is to increase the natural light in your interior spaces.

Aluminium windows also offer a finish that is rust-proof, requires virtually no maintenance beyond normal cleaning and they tend to last longer than the average lifespan of uPVC windows which is around 20-25 years.

Aluminium windows offer:

• A better glass to frame ratio with thinner frames and more natural light.
• A stronger, longer lasting and more durable finish.
• Easy cleaning and maintenance.
• A wide choice of styles and colours.

One drawback is that aluminium frame windows can be a more expensive option than something similar made using uPVC. This is a consideration to bear in mind as you explore your options, weighing style and cost against the needs of the property and the visual impact of different window types.

Whether you want a modern twist to your heritage home or a more traditional design, aluminium windows could be the solution you are looking for. They can be custom manufactured in our state-of-the-art factory to create something unique or to replicate the original look of an existing window that requires replacement. You can find even more information on our aluminium windows and see examples of our installations here.

uPVC Windows for Heritage Homes

uPVC windows are the most popular choice for homes of all ages, sizes and types. They offer excellent value for your investment, last for around 20-25 years when cared for correctly, require very little on-going maintenance and are available in a wide range of styles and colours.

With superior energy efficiency ratings, uPVC windows can help to lower your fuel bills and keep your home cosy and warm in winter and also cooler in the summer months. They also provide peace of mind with their inbuilt security features including the night vent option and multipoint locking systems.

We have manufactured and installed beautiful uPVC windows across the length and breadth of Somerset for over 20 years. Many of our customers in Somerset have more modern post-war properties, but we’ve also helped homeowners whose houses have seen over 300 years of changes and improvements.

In these heritage properties, sympathetic alterations in keeping with the property’s history are usually the order of the day. Alongside this, there also has to be consideration for the available budget, which is where our industry expertise and experience comes in. At Majestic Designs we design, make and install our own windows. We employ all of our fully qualified lead installers in-house which is why we’re able to offer detailed guidance and a range of options to meet the needs of each project.

uPVC windows may not be the first solution you consider when looking for windows to suit a heritage property. We have found that with the right design and colour option and expert installation, uPVC windows can enhance the look of an older home whilst offering better insulation and security.

uPVC windows offer:

• Superior insulation and energy efficiency, lowering your fuel bills and keeping your home warm in the winter and cool in the summer.
• A long lasting solution that requires very little maintenance.
• Security and peace of mind with premium locking functions built in.
• A wide range of sizes, styles, colours and designs.
• Durability at a price that suits your budget.
  

   

Which Option is Right for my Heritage Home?

Ultimately the choice of window material and style depends on your home, your personal preferences and your budget.

Aluminium windows have a larger glass area allowing in more light and the frames require virtually no maintenance, however they can be more expensive. uPVC windows are more cost effective, but the frames can be wider and you may not want that particular look for your property.

Both materials can be manufactured in a wide choice of colours and styles by your expert team giving you a huge range of options to suit the look and feel of your home.

The best first step is to pop into our showroom and talk to one of our knowledgeable staff about your unique home improvement project. If you bring some photos of the windows and/or doors you’d like to update, we’ll be able to show you similar projects in homes like yours.
Why not contact us today and one of our friendly team will be more than happy to advise you further.