Blog>Cost Guides>What’s a cheaper alternative to industrial-style windows?
Last updated: 22 October 2024
What’s a cheaper alternative to industrial-style windows?
More and more homeowners are drawn to unique look of heritage-style steel frame windows. But is there a cheaper alternative?
Steel windows are becoming more and more sought-after. Not only do they look distinctive, but they’re also incredibly durable and secure.
There’s just one problem for homeowners on a budget: the price. Here, we’ll explore the cheaper alternative to steel windows and whether it’s a swap worth making. But first…
What are industrial-style steel windows?
These windows are known for their distinctive steel grid frames, thin lines and industrial aesthetic which initially found their place in Victorian industrial structures.
They’re slick, elegant, durable and let in lots of light, making them a sought-after feature amongst 21st Century homeowners.
However, they’re handcrafted, making them very labour-intensive to manufacture. In fact, they’re often made bespoke.
This can lead to high costs that push them out of the price range of many homeowners.
What’s a cheaper alternative to steel-look windows?
Aluminium windows can be a fantastic alternative to genuine steel windows.
In fact, they cost on average just half the price of bespoke steel frames!
While average steel window costs range from £1,200 - £2,500 depending on the style of window you go for, aluminium windows can cost as little as £400 - £550.
Here’s what you’re looking at price-wise.
| Aluminium Windows | Average price | Average fitting cost | Average total cost |
|---|---|---|---|
| 800 x 800 mm | £400 - £550 | £150 - £230 | £670 |
| 1,000 x 800 mm | £475 - £750 | £175 - £250 | £725 |
| 1,000 x 1,000 mm | £600 - £900 | £175 - £260 | £890 |
| 1,200 x 1,200 mm | £700 - £1,900 | £190 - £290 | £1,100 |
| Last updated: October 2024 Our costs are ballpark averages - get a local tradesperson to quote now | |||
Head over to our cost guide for aluminium windows to learn more.
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How do cheaper alternatives to steel-look windows compare?
So, how do aluminium windows compare to the real thing?
Well, they have lots of similarities.
Both aluminium and genuine steel-look windows offer homeowners fantastic security and longevity.
Plus, they’re both viable solutions for listed buildings and conservation areas.
However, they each have their strengths and weaknesses.
Here’s how they compare on key points.
Aluminium windows
Pros
Cost less
Lightweight
Won’t rust
Lower maintenance
Don’t require a specialist company for installation
More widely available
Easily customised
Thermal break
Cons
Weaker
Not as slim
Not as longlasting
Tricky to create curved heads
Not the real deal
Steel-look windows
Pros
3 x stronger
Extremely secure
Thinner frames
Extremely longlasting
Made bespoke
Can be made from recycled materials
Cons
More expensive
Heavy
Demand upkeep to prevent rusting
No thermal break
So, is aluminium a decent alternative to real industrial-style windows?
Yes! Aluminium windows can be a great way for homeowners to mimic the look and feel of genuine steel-look windows without the price tag.
They may not be quite as strong and longlasting as the real thing, but they still offer excellent durability and longevity when compared to other window types.
Plus, aluminium windows come with their own unique benefits.
For instance, they won’t rust like steel windows, making them virtually maintenance-free!
Similarly, they’re much more lightweight. Not only can this make for easier installation, but you’ll notice the difference when you’re opening and closing your windows.
Just bear in mind that these windows aren’t the real deal.
Yes, they’ll offer a similar aesthetic to genuine steel grid windows. But they’re still a replica.
So, if you want to make sure your windows look truly authentic, you might find that genuine steel windows are worth the cost.
Find a professional to install a cheaper alternative to steel-look windows
Sold on aluminium windows?
All that remains is to find a professional to supply and install them for you.
Luckily, it’s easy to find the right person for the job here at Checkatrade.
All our tradespeople have to pass up to 12 checks and are regularly reviewed on everything from punctuality to professionalism. So, you know you’re in safe hands.
In fact, we’re so confident in the quality of the trades on Checkatrade that if you book through us, we guarantee their work up to £1,000 (guaranteed for 12 months – Eligibility and T&Cs apply).
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