What makes a house a home? Many things play a key role in it, of course. But did you know that the windows are one of them?
They bring in natural light. They also add natural ventilation, helping with energy savings in a house. With the average residential electricity bill each month in the US reaching USD$121.62, that’s something you can’t ignore as a homeowner.
Of course, those aren’t the only things that windows do. They also set the stage for the interior design of a house. They can make or break the appearance and mood of your space. And from the inside, windows also allow homeowners and their guests to enjoy the beautiful scenic view of the property’s surroundings and beyond.
So, can a homeowner just pick and install any window? No. All windows aren’t created equally, unfortunately. The key to enjoying the abovementioned advantages is choosing the right frame material. One of the best and most popular options is aluminium sliding windows.
Curious about what makes aluminium sliding windows an ideal choice? Continue reading for their advantages.
Table of Contents
Durability and low maintenance
Aluminium sliding windows are known for their durability and low maintenance. Unlike other materials, aluminium doesn’t rot or warp. It doesn’t rust either, especially when powder-coated or anodised. It’s a robust material that can withstand harsh conditions.
Aluminium’s durability means that it will maintain its appearance and functionality for many years. It’s lifespan? Around 50 years. But do note that when you’re using high-quality aluminium sliding windows from reputable suppliers and they’re installed properly, your windows can last even longer!
Also, durability translates to minimal upkeep requirements, right? Stability is a natural quality of aluminium. It remains unchanged over time. And that’s true even without special interventions. So, expect that it won’t require you to do any painting or staining for a long time. Regular cleaning with soap and water and occasional track lubrication is enough.
Strength and slim profiles
Did you know that the material is also renowned for its exceptional strength-to-weight ratio? Yes, it has inherent strength despite being lightweight. And that allows for sleek, slim profiles that result in maximised glass area. What does that mean for homeowners? Unobstructed views and abundant natural light!
In addition, the clean, narrow sightlines that result from aluminium’s slim profiles contribute to a modern and sophisticated aesthetic, which was the most preferred home styling by 29% of US consumers in 2020. It can enhance the visual appeal of your house, whether you’re going for a more elaborate architectural style or a minimalist design.
The advantages of aluminium’s slim profile don’t stop there. Narrower profiles also mean less surface area that requires cleaning. Window cleaning can take time, but that’s only because the profiles’ nooks and crannies can sometimes be hard to reach. With thinner sightlines, aluminium windows are more convenient and faster to clean.
Energy efficiency
We’ve also mentioned earlier that aluminium sliding windows add natural ventilation. But don’t all types of windows do that? So, what makes aluminium stand out, then? It’s the material’s lightweight and malleable characteristics. It’s easy to work with, which means suppliers can produce frames with high levels of water and air tightness for better energy efficiency.
It’s also essential to note that modern aluminium windows actually incorporate a new technology called a thermal break. It works by inserting a non-conductive material within the frame. The result is reduced heat transfer. It prevents heat gain during warmer months and heat loss during colder months better. And that ultimately leads to lower bills.
Versatility and design options
Another compelling aspect of aluminium sliding windows is their design versatility. Homeowners seeking customisable solutions would be happy to know that they’re adaptable enough to be available in different colours and finishes. You can easily find something that aligns with your style preferences.
Want to have endless colour options? The powder coating process can make it possible for you. Want to tailor your living spaces to suit your lifestyle? Different configurations are also available in addition to sliding. For instance, you can have bi-fold or casement windows instead.
Functionality and practicality
Aluminium sliding windows blend style with functionality and practicality, allowing homeowners to transition between their indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly. And that’s because of aluminium windows’ smooth, gliding operation. Imagine how convenient it is when you can open your windows effortlessly with just a gentle push!
Moreover, these windows open horizontally along a track instead of opening inwards or outwards. Imagine how such a space-saving design can benefit smaller rooms or spaces where it’s crucial to maximise floor area.
Safety and security
So, are aluminium sliding windows secure enough? The answer is yes, and that’s thanks to their robust construction. Intruders can’t easily tamper with or break their frames.
However, the inherent robustness of aluminium sliding windows shouldn’t stop you from enhancing their security by installing or adding any or a combination of the following:
- Locks at multiple points along the track
- Tempered glass that doesn’t easily shatter even when subjected to powerful impacts
- Security bars or grilles that act as an external physical barrier against intruders
- A security film that not only creates an invisible barrier but also strengthens the glass
These security features will be a good addition to the already reliable aluminium sliding windows. However, they’re not foolproof. The best way to protect your house is still by maintaining good visibility and installing a security system around your property.
Conclusion
Still undecided regarding the type of windows to use in your home? Consider the abovementioned attributes of aluminium sliding windows. If your priority is saving money in the long run without sacrificing aesthetics, functionality, practicality and safety, these windows might just be what you need.
