uPVC vs Aluminium vs Timber Windows — UK Guide
Comparing the three main window frame materials for UK homes — U-values, cost, maintenance, lifespan, aesthetics and planning considerations.
Side-by-Side Comparison
| Property | uPVC | Aluminium | Timber |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cost per window (avg) | £350-600 | £600-1,200 | £700-1,500 |
| Frame U-value (W/m²K) | 1.2-1.4 | 1.4-1.8 (thermally broken) | 1.3-1.6 |
| Whole window U-value | 1.2-1.4 | 1.4-1.6 | 1.3-1.5 |
| Lifespan | 20-30 years | 30-45 years | 40-60+ years |
| Maintenance | Wipe clean only | Wipe clean, check seals | Repaint every 5-8 years |
| Sightline width | 65-75mm | 45-55mm (slim) | 55-70mm |
| Colour options | White, grey, woodgrain foils | Any RAL colour (powder coated) | Any paint colour |
| Conservation area | Often restricted | Sometimes accepted | Usually required |
| Recyclability | Recyclable (up to 10 times) | 100% recyclable | Biodegradable, renewable |
Pros and Cons
uPVC Windows
Pros
- + Lowest cost option
- + Zero maintenance (wipe clean)
- + Good thermal performance
- + Wide availability, fast delivery
- + Proven track record in UK
Cons
- - Thicker frames, less glass area
- - Can yellow/discolour over time
- - Not accepted in many conservation areas
- - Cannot be repainted (foil wraps peel)
- - Shorter lifespan than alternatives
Aluminium Windows
Pros
- + Slim sightlines — more glass, more light
- + Any RAL colour available
- + Strong — suits large openings
- + Very low maintenance
- + Modern, contemporary look
Cons
- - More expensive than uPVC
- - Slightly lower thermal performance
- - Must specify thermal break
- - Powder coat can chip (repairable)
- - Longer lead times (made to order)
Timber Windows
Pros
- + Longest lifespan (60+ years)
- + Accepted in conservation areas
- + Can be repaired and repainted
- + Natural, traditional appearance
- + Lowest embodied carbon
Cons
- - Most expensive option
- - Regular repainting required
- - Susceptible to rot if neglected
- - Longer lead times
- - Wood can warp or swell
UK Cost Comparison (2026 Prices)
For a 3-bedroom semi-detached house (8 windows, 1 door, double glazed):
| Cost Element | uPVC | Aluminium | Timber |
|---|---|---|---|
| Windows (supply) | £2,800-4,800 | £4,800-9,600 | £5,600-12,000 |
| Installation | £800-1,200 | £1,000-1,500 | £1,200-2,000 |
| Removal & disposal | £200-400 | £200-400 | £200-400 |
| Total installed | £3,800-6,400 | £6,000-11,500 | £7,000-14,400 |
| Maintenance over 25 years | ~£0 | ~£0 | £1,500-3,000 |
| 25-year total cost | £3,800-6,400 | £6,000-11,500 | £8,500-17,400 |
When to Choose Each
Choose uPVC When
- Budget is the priority
- Standard residential property
- Zero maintenance wanted
- Quick turnaround needed
Choose Aluminium When
- Contemporary/modern design
- Large openings (bi-folds)
- Slim frames, maximum glass
- Specific RAL colour needed
Choose Timber When
- Listed building or conservation area
- Period property (Victorian, Georgian)
- Sustainability is a priority
- Maximum lifespan wanted
Environmental Considerations
Timber has the lowest embodied carbon and is renewable. Aluminium has high embodied energy but is 100% recyclable with high scrap value — recycled aluminium uses only 5% of the energy of primary production. uPVC can be recycled up to 10 times but recycling rates remain low. All three materials save far more energy through improved insulation over their lifetime than they cost to manufacture.
Related Calculators
- U-Value Calculator — calculate window and wall U-values
- Heat Loss Calculator — assess heat loss through windows
How We Calculate This
Frequently Asked Questions
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Last updated: April 2026
All calculations are estimates. Verify with your supplier.