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Benefits of Vinyl and Aluminum for Your New Windows & Doors

July 7, 2021
Middle-aged couple shopping for new vinyl or aluminum windows in their family home.

Upgrading your windows and doors is an exciting prospect, but so many decisions! Fortunately, there are a number of great options to choose from. Any of which will add curb appeal and boost your home’s value. Most importantly, they’ll keep your family safe.

Related: 5 Things to Consider for Your Next Window & Door Upgrade

You can’t go wrong with either aluminum or vinyl windows and doors. Here’s what you need to know to help you make the right decision for your home.

Vinyl Windows and Doors

Vinyl windows in a coastal home bedroom.

Featuring our WinGuard® Vinyl Double Hung Window DH5560 and Picture Window PW5520

Vinyl is a popular option many homeowners choose when the time comes to replace their windows and/or doors. You’ll find numerous stylish options and models to select from. Here are the top benefits associated with vinyl.

Highly Energy Efficient

Vinyl performs extremely well when it comes to energy efficiency. Designed to minimize drafts, vinyl comes with strong thermal performance ratings, which is highly beneficial in Florida and other warm climates. You’ll be able to rest assured knowing your air conditioning will not slip out through drafty windows and doors. As a result, you’ll see savings reflected in your energy bill.

Related: Eco Friendly Living for Your Home

Stronger Soundproofing

Vinyl windows are highly rated when it comes to soundproofing. (Aluminum does just fine in this category, but vinyl gains the edge.)

Extremely Low Maintenance

Homeowners find vinyl to be pretty much maintenance-free. Once installed, vinyl windows and doors need occasional cleaning but require no major maintenance or care. You don’t have to worry about weathering since vinyl windows are designed to withstand the elements. Not to mention, they are highly moisture-resistant. Vinyl is very durable and is not prone to swelling or warping.

Plenty of Stylish Options to Choose From

One of the benefits homeowners love is the fact vinyl offers so many awesome styles and colors. Go traditional with white or go bold with black vinyl windows or doors. Add vinyl French doors for a touch of elegance. You can even get a wooden look with vinyl, including grains and all.

People who invest in high-quality vinyl windows or impact front doors are usually very satisfied with their decision. When looking at vinyl, look at brands made with the highest quality materials that contain micro-ingredients to enhance thermal performance and promote color stability.

Aluminum Windows and Doors

A 40-foot vinyl sliding glass door in an upscale coastal home.

Featuring our WinGuard® Aluminum Premium Sliding Glass Door SGD780

Along with vinyl, aluminum is a popular option for homeowners. This is no surprise due to the benefits these stylish windows and doors offer. Here are some top benefits you’ll find.

Related: Why Your Next Home Improvement Project Could Bring Tax Advantages

Possesses Great Durability

Aluminum windows and doors are built to last. This means fewer replacements over the time you own your home. These durable products are designed to withstand extreme weather exposure and can repel the damage typically caused by moisture. Aluminum windows are built to last. Properly cared for, they’ll last up to 50 years.

Requires Minimal Maintenance

Easy maintenance is a highly appealing factor to people who opt to invest in aluminum. Aside from routine cleaning, there is no significant maintenance involved once installed. These windows and doors will never need to be painted or stained. Can’t get any easier than that!

Adds Great Curb Appeal

Aluminum is versatile enough to blend with most home types. Its sleekness adds curb appeal to any type of house. You also can’t go wrong with stylish – and strong – aluminum storm doors, a highly coveted feature in Florida and other hurricane-prone areas.

High-quality aluminum windows and doors will last for years to come. Many models come with double weather-stripping and interlocking meeting rails. These features equate to better energy efficiency as it keeps heat and A/C in, as it simultaneously keeps outdoor weather elements out.

How to Decide Between Vinyl vs Aluminum Windows and Doors

When it boils down to it, you’ll find both vinyl and aluminum door and window options are more durable. They are also both easy to maintain and deliver great value. These two types of materials come with affordable options, along with many other tangible benefits. For instance, both will add value and good aesthetics to your home. In the end, when choosing, it might simply come down to personal preference and style. Aluminum doesn’t offer as many style options, whereas vinyl opens up a variety of color options.

Modern homes are primarily outfitted with either vinyl or aluminum windows and doors. As you look at the differences between the two options, you’ll most likely find you really can’t go wrong with either option.