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Aluminium vs. uPVC Windows: Which Is Better for Irish Homes?

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Choosing the right windows for your home in Ireland isn’t just about looks — it’s about energy efficiency, durability, and long-term value. Among the most popular materials, aluminium and uPVC (unplasticized polyvinyl chloride) stand out.

But which one is right for your Irish home? Let’s break it down.

What Makes Aluminium and uPVC Windows Popular in Ireland?

Both materials are well-suited to Ireland’s cool, damp climate, offering excellent insulation and low maintenance. However, they differ in cost, style, and lifespan.

At Wright Windows Ireland, we supply and install premium-quality uPVC and aluminium windows, designed to perform perfectly in Irish weather.

What Makes Aluminium and uPVC Windows Popular in Ireland?

Aluminium vs. uPVC Windows: Quick Comparison Table

Feature Aluminium Windows uPVC Windows
Durability Extremely strong and long-lasting Highly durable but can warp over decades
Energy Efficiency Moderate (requires thermal break) Excellent insulation and airtight sealing
Maintenance Low – needs occasional cleaning Very low – no painting or polishing
Aesthetic Appeal Sleek, modern, slim frames Traditional, available in various finishes
Cost Generally higher upfront More affordable and budget-friendly
Recyclability 100% recyclable Recyclable but less eco-efficient
Lifespan 40+ years 25–35 years

Energy Efficiency: A Key Concern for Irish Homes

With Ireland’s temperate maritime climate, energy-efficient windows are essential.

  • uPVC windows offer superior insulation and reduce heat loss, helping you lower energy bills.

  • Aluminium windows have improved significantly thanks to thermal break technology, though they still lag slightly behind uPVC in insulation performance.

At Wright Windows, our A-rated uPVC windows are designed to meet BER standards, keeping your home warm and efficient year-round.

Cost and Value for Money

While aluminium windows cost more initially, they last longer and maintain their sleek appearance over decades.

However, uPVC windows remain more affordable upfront, making them a cost-effective option for most Irish homeowners.

Tip: Consider the total lifecycle cost — not just the installation price. uPVC may need replacement sooner, while aluminium could outlast it.

Aesthetic & Design Flexibility

When it comes to style:

  • Aluminium windows are perfect for modern homes, offering slim frames and larger glass areas.

  • uPVC windows suit traditional or cottage-style homes, available in various colours and woodgrain finishes.

At Wright Windows Ireland, we provide custom window designs tailored to your property’s look and feel.

Environmental Impact

Sustainability is a growing concern for Irish homeowners.

  • Aluminium is fully recyclable and can be reused indefinitely.

  • uPVC, while recyclable, is less eco-friendly to manufacture.

Still, both materials can contribute to reduced carbon emissions through better insulation.

Maintenance & Longevity

Both window types are low-maintenance:

  • uPVC requires only occasional cleaning with mild soap and water.

  • Aluminium may need periodic care to prevent salt corrosion in coastal areas.

Wright Windows ensures every installation includes weather-resistant finishes for long-term performance.

Which Should You Choose for Your Irish Home?

Choose uPVC if you want:

  • Maximum energy efficiency

  • Affordable installation

  • Low maintenance and classic designs

Read more : A-rated uPVC windows Ireland

Choose aluminium if you want:

  • A modern, slimline aesthetic

  • Durability and strength

  • Long-term value

Wright Windows Ireland: Your Trusted Window Partner

At Wright Windows Ireland, we’ve been providing high-performance uPVC and aluminium windows for decades. Our products combine style, energy efficiency, and durability — all tailored for Irish conditions.

We offer:

  • A-rated energy-efficient windows

  • Expert installation and aftercare

  • Custom designs for every home type

Wright Windows Ireland: Your Trusted Window Partner

Final Thoughts

Both aluminium and uPVC windows have distinct advantages. Your choice depends on your budget, home style, and performance priorities.

Whichever you choose, Wright Windows Ireland guarantees top-quality materials, expert fitting, and lasting comfort for your home.

Key Takeaways

  • uPVC = better insulation, lower cost

  • Aluminium = sleeker look, longer lifespan

  • Wright Windows = trusted supplier for both options

Ready to upgrade your windows?
Contact Wright Windows Ireland today for a free consultation and quote.

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  • Milltownpass, Co Westmeath Ireland, N91 VF85

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    What Our Clients Say!

    author thumb John Peter
    author thumb Sami Wade
    author thumb Sami Wade

    I would just like to convey my gratitude to Wright Windows and their excellent team on a job well done. Firstly I would like to thank John Mulholland, who must have the patience of a saint as I did change my mind about three times, as I do admit to have been fussy and pedant about the whole project. On that note it brings me to the installation team Austin and Max, first class professionals in their trade. I really wasn’t looking forward to the job, the mess and the problems that I thought would be there. However, the lads did an excellent job, no mess and not one cracked or broken tile, and made easy work of a complicated job. They were professional, courteous and were very particular in finishing every little detail to the highest standard. Thanks to the lads I have no hesitation in recommending this company to anybody.

    I would just like to say that we continue to be more than impressed with the service from your company. Further to my e-mail below, I immediately got a call from Donal who said he would send someone to see our windows. He was very thorough and helpful with his follow up ensuring that it was a time that suited us. One of your team came to the house last week (I don’t know his name unfortunately) and he looked at the window, resealed it and did a tidy up job on most of the windows in the house. Customer care like this is exceptional and to get it 3 years after the project is very impressive.

    I just wanted to pass on my gratitude at the fantastic work that your fitters did on a porch that was recently fitted in my home in Butterstream Manor, Trim. The quality of the work is amazing and I will certainly be recommending your company to family and friends.

    Just a short email to thank your company for the really professional job you did in replacing 11 windows and a patio door in my house over the past two days. The experience has been really positive -from the team who measured up to the team who installed. Nothing was a problem -the price was competitive -the advice and service professional -and the end result is fully meeting our expectations. Please convey our thanks to all involved and I have no hesitation in recommending your company to any of my friends.

    Just a short note to let you know your company has just finished replacing my windows (16 no) and rear door (1 no) today. I would like to thank you for the absolutely brilliant service from John Mulholland and the two lads Austin and Max who installed the windows/door.

    A sincere thank you for looking after us so well. We are thrilled with our new windows and can’t fault their installation; Frank and his colleague Declan were terrific. So, a big thank you to all, Maurice.