Benefits of Aluminum Windows

While aluminum windows are a traditional home window option, they once fell out of favor due to high thermal transfer. However, modern innovations in aluminum window technology have brought these traditional windows back into the spotlight. 

Aluminum is durable, resistant to corrosion and breakdown, and relatively affordable compared to some other materials. Therefore, aluminum windows are a viable option for many prospective homeowners. Find out more about the many benefits of aluminum windows, the variety of color options available, their energy ratings, and how well they perform in Texas homes. 

3 Key Characteristics of Aluminum Windows

Aluminum windows offer three primary characteristics that make them a desirable home window option for homeowners in Texas: 

1. Strength and durability: Aluminum windows are renowned for their strength and resilience. They can be highly durable and capable of withstanding harsh weather conditions and are less prone to warping, cracking, or bending.

2. Sleek and modern appearance: With their clean lines and contemporary design, aluminum windows add a sleek and modern aesthetic to any home. The minimalist frames complement a variety of architectural styles and enhance the overall look of the property. Additionally, aluminum windows are available in several power-coated color options. Aluminum windows are available in a range of color options, both traditional and more contemporary with custom options viable with some brands. While the classic metallic finishes are the most popular, neutral tones in black, white, and grey are a close second. However, many homeowners opt for custom colors to complement varied architectural styles or color combinations. 

3. Slim profiles for larger glass areas: Aluminum windows feature slim profiles that maximize glass area and provide unobstructed views. This design allows for more natural light to enter the home while maintaining a stylish and streamlined appearance.

What Brands Make Aluminum Windows?

Several leading aluminum window brands dominate the home window market due to energy efficiency, style availability, and quality. 

Milgard

Milgard is known for energy-efficient aluminum windows with modern designs. They offer a range of styles and advanced features, including thermal breaks and Low-E glass, to enhance insulation and performance. Their windows are designed to balance aesthetics with energy efficiency, which makes them a popular choice for contemporary homes.

Andersen

Andersen is one of the most trusted names in home windows and has been manufacturing aluminum windows for many years. The brand offers durable aluminum-clad options with various customization possibilities. Andersen offers several types of windows with aluminum components, but they are typically featured in their Aluminum Clad product lines like those from the Andersen E Series. These windows have a durable aluminum exterior that provides weather resistance, while the interior is often made from wood or other materials. 

Pella

Pella provides high-quality, energy-efficient aluminum window products, featuring sleek designs and advanced thermal performance. Their windows incorporate innovative technologies like low-E glass and thermal breaks to enhance insulation and reduce energy costs. Pella's commitment to durability and style makes their aluminum windows a reliable choice for various architectural styles.

NT Windows

NT Windows offers aluminum windows designed for durability and performance, with a focus on energy efficiency. The brand offers a range of collections, including the ever-popular Twinsulator™ aluminum windows and more economical Presidential line, which are crafted from durable powder-coated frames made of extruded aluminum. 

MI Windows

MI Windows offers a diverse selection of aluminum windows, prioritizing affordability and energy efficiency. Their products are designed to provide cost-effective solutions without compromising on performance. Additionally, the brand provides windows of a wide range of shapes and sizes.

Alside

Alside is a well-respected brand for home windows with keen attention to durable designs and stringent Energy Star standards. The brand's aluminum windows are considered some of the best available with a versatile collection of styles to choose from. 

Are Aluminum Windows Energy-Efficient?

Aluminum windows are fairly well-rounded when it comes to energy ratings in the modern day, although they may not be as energy-efficient as vinyl or wood counterparts due to their high conductivity. Nevertheless, modern aluminum windows are far more energy efficient than they were in the past. 

Thermal Break Technology

Modern aluminum windows use thermal breaks—insulating materials placed between the inner and outer parts of the frame—to minimize heat transfer. This reduces thermal bridging and enhances insulation, improving energy efficiency.

Energy Star Ratings

Energy Star certification indicates that aluminum windows meet stringent energy efficiency standards set by the EPA. Certified windows are tested for performance in heat transfer and solar gain, helping to lower energy bills and improve overall comfort by reducing the workload on heating and cooling systems.

The general benchmarks for Energy Star certification for windows, including aluminum ones involve:

• U-Factor: Typically needs to be ≤ 0.30 to 0.35, depending on the climate zone. This measures how well the window insulates against heat loss.
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Should be ≤ 0.25 to 0.40. This measures how much solar heat is transmitted through the window. The ideal SHGC value varies based on whether you're in a cooler or warmer climate.

Compared to vinyl and wood, aluminum windows generally have lower natural insulation due to their higher thermal conductivity. While modern aluminum windows with thermal breaks and advanced glazing can perform well, vinyl and wood often offer superior insulation and energy efficiency naturally. Proper glazing and Low-E coatings significantly enhance the energy efficiency of aluminum windows.

Alternatives to Aluminum Windows

Consider alternatives to aluminum windows if you seek better insulation, lower maintenance, or specific aesthetic preferences. If energy efficiency and durability are top priorities, or if budget constraints influence your choice, exploring other materials might be beneficial. Here are the most common alternatives:

Vinyl Windows:

• Pros: Affordable, energy efficient
• Cons: Less durable, limited color options

Wood Windows:

• Pros: Classic look, excellent insulation
• Cons: High maintenance, vulnerable to moisture, more expensive

Fiberglass Windows:

• Pros: Durable, energy efficient
• Cons: Higher cost

Composite Windows:

• Pros: Durable construction, energy efficient
• Cons: Higher price point

Are Aluminum Windows Good for Texas Homes?

Texas' hot climate can pose challenges for window performance, but aluminum windows with thermal breaks and low-E glass or coatings are well-suited for handling extreme temperatures. These features help minimize heat transfer, making aluminum windows a competitive option compared to materials like vinyl or fiberglass, which may not perform as well under intense heat.

Aluminum windows are also durable and weather-resistant, standing up well to Texas conditions, including heat, humidity, and storms. They offer advantages in coastal areas by resisting corrosion. To maximize energy efficiency, especially in hot climates, consider features like Low-E glass and ensure proper installation to enhance the performance of aluminum windows in your home.