Aluminium is better for most homes: it costs less, insulates better with a thermal break, and is easier to install. Steel is better where you need the slimmest frames, a heritage match or fire-rated glazing. Steel-look aluminium gives the steel appearance without the extra cost and weight.
How do they compare?
- Sightlines: steel is slimmer.
- Cost: aluminium is cheaper.
- Insulation: aluminium with a thermal break performs well; steel depends on the system.
- Installation: aluminium is lighter and widely fitted; steel needs specialists.
Which lasts longer?
Steel is often quoted at 60 years or more and aluminium at 30 to 45 years, both assuming the finish is kept in good order. Sealed glass units wear sooner in either material.
When is steel the right choice?
On a listed or heritage building that needs original-style frames, or where very slim frames or fire-rated glazing are required. Genuine steel suits those cases, but needs a specialist fitter and a budget to match.
Which does Phoenix recommend?
For most homes, steel-look aluminium. Phoenix makes aluminium and steel-look windows in-house in Nuneaton with an insurance-backed 10-year guarantee. See our steel-look windows.
Thinking about new windows? We make our own windows and fit them across Nuneaton, Bedworth, Hinckley, Tamworth and Rugby, with an insurance-backed 10-year guarantee. Call 02476 350 330, or request a quote.