Windows as Strong as Steel (and Aluminum)

Aluminum and steel windows are the workhorses of the replacement window market. Nothing beats them in terms of strength and durability. Steel saw its heyday in the mid-1900s, but has since been superseded by its lighter, more versatile cousin aluminum. Here's an overview of what heavy metal sashes have to offer.

Aluminum
Vinyl and fiberglass have gained in popularity, yet aluminum remains one of the most popular replacement window choices. Why? Aluminum has the highest strength-to-weight ratio. This feature makes it the best window choice for large custom windows, and as a result aluminum is commonplace in commercial buildings. In addition to accommodating large window panes, aluminum also blocks out more noise than its rival vinyl.

Aluminum windows also offer great versatility and easy maintenance. They can be painted to match a color scheme, but paint is not necessary; aluminum windows are available with a baked-on or anodized finish that protects the surface from rust and wear. Aluminum resists denting and weathering, and is therefore a durable and low-maintenance option. Last but not least, aluminum is significantly cheaper than vinyl, wood, or fiberglass.

Aluminum windows are powerful rain and wind blocks, and are therefore commonly used as storm or hurricane windows, or basement windows. They are not effective in preventing heat transfer, however, and are some of the least energy efficient windows on the market. In recognition of this shortcoming, window manufacturers have developed strategies to overcome it. Today's aluminum windows include a thermal break, a strip of vinyl or foam separating the inside and outside of the frame, reducing its heat conductivity. Energy-efficient glass also prevents some heat loss.

Steel
Steel is an industrial-age frame material; it is seldom used in residential settings, but persists in commercial buildings that require extra-strength assemblies and maximum fire-protection. Besides its strength and fire resistance, steel does not offer the advantages of aluminum. It is vulnerable to rust and requires serious maintenance.

Aluminum and steel remain the strongest window materials on the market, but aluminum is much more user-friendly: attractive, easy to maintain, and economical.