Blog>Expert Advice>Aluminium vs uPVC doors: Everything you need to know
Last updated: 15 August 2024
Aluminium vs uPVC doors: Everything you need to know
If you’re looking to bring more light and space into your home, then you might be considering installing bifold or sliding doors. But should you go for aluminium or uPVC doors? Read this guide to help make your decision.
When choosing between aluminium or uPVC doors, it can be tricky to know which option is right for you and your home.
But, don’t worry – we’re here to help! In this guide, we’ve put together everything you need to know about aluminium and uPVC doors.
Should I choose aluminium or uPVC bifold doors?
The best choice for you will depend on what you want for your home.
To help you make that decision, we’ve put together a summary looking at the differences.
Differences between aluminium doors vs uPVC
Here are some key factors that should help you decide which type of bifold door or sliding door is right for your home:
Durability and ease of use
Hopefully, you’re going to be using your doors a lot, so durability and ease of use are important factors:
uPVC doors – uPVC doors are typically more lightweight, making them easier to operate, but over time they may feel less sturdy
Aluminium doors – Aluminium is naturally stronger and more durable than uPVC, so it’s a very sturdy option and ideal for larger doors
Energy efficiency
Most elements of your property will affect how energy-efficient your home is – and that includes doors:
uPVC doors – uPVC is a great option for energy efficiency as it offers great insulation that will help keep your energy bills down
Aluminium doors – Although not a natural insulating material, modern aluminium doors often feature glazing that means they’re as good (if not better) than uPVC
Why you should invest in energy-efficient windows for your home
Find out about the popular eco-home improvement of installing energy-efficient windows
Frame style
It’s not just about practicality. You’ll want your new bifold or sliding doors to fit in with the style of your home:
uPVC doors – Generally speaking, they have thicker frames that may not look as sleek as aluminium designs
Aluminium doors – You’ll usually get slimmer, sleeker frames so you can maximise your views and the light entering your home
Colours and customisation
Getting the perfect bifold or sliding doors for your home means finding the exact colour and design:
uPVC doors – uPVC comes in a range of colours and designs, including wood effects, but options tend to be limited compared to aluminium doors
Aluminium doors – There’s usually a much wider range of range of colours, finishes, and customisation options available with aluminium doors
Security
Your home is your castle, and you want to keep it safe. So, should you opt for aluminium or uPVC doors?
uPVC doors – Although you can fit high-quality locking mechanisms into uPVC doors, the uPVC itself is not as strong as aluminium
Aluminium doors – Due to it being a stronger material, aluminium doors typically offer more security than uPVC alternatives
Cost of aluminium doors vs uPVC
You'll most likely have a budget to work with, so you'll need to understand whether you can afford the cost of aluminium or uPVC bifold doors:
uPVC doors – You’ll find that uPVC doors tend to be cheaper than aluminium options, making them a great choice if you have a more limited budget
Aluminium doors – Although they’re more expensive, aluminium doors are a great investment for long-term durability and aesthetic appeal
Here are some of the average costs for the supply and installation of bifold doors with 3-5 panels:
uPVC bifold doors – £2,000 - £4,500
Aluminium bifold doors – £3,000 - £7,500
Here are the average costs of sliding doors:
uPVC sliding doors - £1,500-£4,000
Aluminium sliding doors - £2,000-£4,500
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job
Maintenance
After installing bifold doors, it's helpful to know how much upkeep they'll need:
uPVC doors – uPVC is a low-maintenance material, and with occasional cleaning, you’ll keep them looking great, however over time, they may show signs of wear and tear
Aluminium doors – Aluminium is low-maintenance and well-known for its longevity without warping, cracking or fading. You will need to do the occasional clean to keep them looking their best
Save yourself the hassle of cleaning bifold doors yourself and hire an experienced local window cleaner:
How to find a good window cleaner
Keeping your windows shiny and clean makes your house look fresh and inviting, but it can be an awkward and time-consuming job. If you don’t have the time or energy to clean windows yourself then it’s time to find the best window cleaner in your area to do it for you.
Environmental Impact
If you're trying to move towards a more eco-friendly home, then consider the following:
uPVC doors – There are some concerns about using uPVC due to its manufacturing and disposal and limited recycling options available
Aluminium doors – Aluminium is highly recyclable, and you could even buy recycled aluminium doors
Benefits of installing bifold or sliding doors
If you’re on the fence about installing bifold or sliding doors, here are some of the reasons why they both make an excellent addition to a home:
Maximise the light and feeling of space in your home
Create the perfect indoor-outdoor living space
Spruce up your home with a modern aesthetic
Improve the energy efficiency of your home
Increase the value and desirability of your property
Want to know more about bifolds and sliding doors? Take a look at our complete guide to patio doors.
Summary of uPVC vs aluminium doors
Both uPVC and aluminium doors are easy to maintain
You’ll be secure with uPVC doors, but aluminium offers an even higher level of security
If you want a bespoke design, then aluminium bifold doors will give you more options
For a more modest budget, you’ll get better value options with uPVC bifold doors
Speak to local bifold door installers for their advice for your home.
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job
See the tradespeople we've checked and recommend for your job