Choosing Your Aluminium Windows

The best way to maintain your windows is to wash them regularly. Use a mild soap, warm water and a soft bristled brush. Use clean water to rinse and dry your windows to avoid streaking.

Proper drainage is important to the lifetime of your windows and doors. Remove any debris clogging drain holes. Ensure sliding door tracks are clean and free from debris.

Never use solvent cleaners as they can damage the powder-coating.

For further information on maintaining your aluminium windows, see our guidelines for maintenance and installation.

To assess the quality of aluminium windows, consider these key factors:

1. Frame Thickness:

   Look for sturdy, thicker frames for durability.

2. Finish:

   High-quality windows have smooth, powder-coated finishes that resist corrosion.

3. Thermal Break:

   Ensure they include thermal breaks for better insulation.

4. Seals:

   Tight, well-fitted rubber seals prevent drafts and water leaks.

5. Security:

   Multiple locking points and robust mechanisms are essential.

6. Glazing:

   Double or triple glazing improves insulation and noise reduction.

7. Warranty:

   A good warranty (10 years+) signals a reliable product.

These features indicate high-quality aluminium windows that are built to last.

The lifespan of aluminium windows typically ranges from 20 to 45 years or more, depending on factors such as the quality of the materials, installation, maintenance, and environmental conditions.

High-quality aluminium windows with proper care and protective coatings, like powder coating, can last towards the upper end of this range. Additionally, aluminium is highly resistant to corrosion, making it ideal for various climates.

Regular cleaning and maintenance can help extend the life of the windows further.

At Fairview the products we supply come with various warranties to give you peace of mind.

Yes! Aluminium windows are worth it due to several key advantages:

1. Durability:

   Aluminium is strong and resistant to corrosion, giving windows a long lifespan, often up to 45 years with proper care.

2. Low Maintenance:

   Unlike wood, aluminium doesn’t require frequent repainting or repairs. It’s easy to clean and maintain.

3. Energy Efficiency:

   With modern thermal break technology and proper glazing, aluminium windows offer good insulation, helping to reduce energy costs.

4. Aesthetics:

   Aluminium frames are slee and allow for larger panes of glass, giving a modern, clean look.

5. Eco-Friendly:

   Aluminium is fully recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly option.

While aluminium windows can have a higher upfront cost, their long-term durability, low maintenance, and energy efficiency often make them a smart investment.

Aluminium windows can be more prone to condensation compared to other materials like wood, but this primarily depends on whether they include thermal breaks, and of course on your home itself. (You can learn more about what causes condensation below.)

Thermal breaks are insulating materials placed between the inner and outer layers of the aluminium frame to reduce heat transfer. You can learn more about our glass options here.

Aluminium windows generally do not need painting, thanks to their powder coated finish.

This durable coating provides long-lasting protection against corrosion, fading, and scratches, while also giving the windows a smooth, attractive finish. However, if the powder coating becomes damaged or fades over time, repainting is an option, though it’s typically unnecessary for many years.

Unlike wood, aluminium frames won’t peel or require frequent repainting, making them a low-maintenance option.

You can learn more about choosing your aluminium colour finish here.

No, aluminium window frames do not rust.

Unlike steel or iron, aluminium is highly resistant to rust and corrosion because it naturally forms a protective oxide layer when exposed to air. This makes aluminium a durable material, especially in environments prone to moisture.

For even more protection, many aluminium windows come with a powder coated finish, which further prevents corrosion and extends the life of the frames, even in coastal or high-humidity areas.

You can learn more about choosing your aluminium colour finish here.

The air inside your home contains moisture. When the indoor temperature cools down, the air can’t hold as much water vapour.

This means the vapour condenses as a liquid, which is particularly visible on cold, non-absorbent surfaces like windows.

There’s also unseen moisture which penetrates your carpets, fabrics and other absorbent surfaces, making them feel cold and damp.

Unfortunately, simply installing new aluminium windows won’t fix a condensation problem. But there are a number of things you can do to help minimise the chance of condensation:

1. Ventilation

   Ventilation can help reduce moisture and condensation, keeping your home drier, healthier and more comfortable. Keeping windows open, even if only by a little for part of the day, can help reduce condensation.

2. Dehumidifiers

   Dehumidifiers are useful to reduce moisture in the air. A dehumidifier draws in the moisture-laden air from around the room, extracts the water and deposits it into an inbuilt container. You can easily dispose of this water by removing and emptying the container.

3. Domestic Ventilation Systems

   There are several types of HVAC systems available, which work by replacing the moisture-laden air in your home with air that may be drier – potentially reducing condensation and improving air quality as a result. Some systems have built in electric heaters that also warm your home.

Double glazing helps keep the surface of the inside glass warmer, reducing the likelihood of condensation forming on the windows.

Like double glazing, thermally efficient window frames help prevent the transfer of heat through window frames, helping to reduce condensation on windows.

Thermally efficient window frames should only be used with double glazing.