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The Benefits of Composite Windows in Your Home: A Comprehensive Guide

If you want to invest in a high-performance addition to your home, it may be time to explore our range of composite windows.

A composite window combines two highly efficient materials, engineered together to offer superior performance and durability, often outlasting many traditional options.

While they can come at a premium cost when compared to traditional timber or uPVC windows, the exceptional performance figures of composite windows make them a valuable long-term investment.

Aspect Windows supply and install composite windows from leading brands such as rationel, velfac and Internorm. Over the past 40 years, we have been helping homeowners, architects and builders across the South West create their dream homes with bespoke glazing solutions.

Table of Contents

• What is a composite window?
• What are the benefits of choosing a composite window?
• What are the cons of choosing a composite window?
• Are composite windows better than uPVC windows?
• Conclusion

What is a composite window?

Composite windows are manufactured by combining two materials to enhance their overall performance.

Unlike Timber or uPVC windows, composite windows can be manufactured using timber and aluminium or uPVC and Aluminium to create a glazing solution that is easier to maintain, offers improved thermal efficiency and is a more cost-effective long-term, durable option for our homes.

What are the benefits of choosing a composite window?

1. High performance

Composite windows offer some of the most impressive thermal performance figures on the market as a result of their combination of materials.

Internorm’s range of composite windows can have U-Values as low as 0.64 W/(m2K), helping you save money on heating bills and create a more efficient home.

The use of both timber and aluminium or aluminium and uPVC creates a more thermally efficient window than those manufactured with single materials.

2. Minimal maintenance

If you are looking for a low-maintenance finish at your property without compromising on style or design, composite windows provide the perfect solution.

Alu-clad windows require minimal maintenance to maintain their sleek looks. Compared to a traditional timber window, which would require significantly more routine care to maintain appearance and performance.

Any timber used in a composite window is housed internally and is, therefore, better protected against external weather conditions.

Regular maintenance is recommended of course, but this can be as simple as a wash and clean of the exterior.

3. Durable

The combination of two materials ensures composite windows offer you a more durable, longer-lasting life span than alternative window styles.

Official lifespan figures vary between manufacturers (and are subject to following recommended routine maintenance plans), but brands like rationel claim their composite windows can have a life expectancy of over 80 years, which makes them fantastic value for money.

Internorm’s range of composite windows can also include a weather-resistant aluminium coating that increases the stability of the colour over time.

4. Sustainability

Composite windows are a fantastic option if you’re planning to create a low-energy consumption property or if you’re working on a Passive House project.

Not only are they highly efficient, but they are also sourced and manufactured using sustainable practices.

Many leading manufacturers source their timber materials from FSC-certified forests. This ensures the forests involved promote responsible management techniques that respect the rights of their local communities within the areas the materials are being sourced from.

With consideration for the nature, wildlife and local communities involved, you can be assured the materials in your composite window have been sourced sustainably and respectfully.

What are the cons of a Composite Window?

While they offer impressive durability and energy savings, there are some drawbacks to consider when deciding if they are the most suitable product for you.

Additional cost

Firstly, they tend to be more expensive than traditional windows, which could make them less accessible to budget-conscious homeowners. However, it’s important to consider that this higher upfront cost is often outweighed by the long-term benefits.

Composite windows are built to last significantly longer than standard wood or aluminium windows, reducing the need for frequent replacements or repairs. This durability means that, in the long run, homeowners can save money on maintenance and replacement costs.

Heavier materials

A natural side effect of using two materials in your manufacturing process is the additional weight that this adds to the final product.

Composite windows are heavier than traditional windows and the sheer density of the product means there could be some additional factors to consider during the installation.

This could add further costs and ultimately determine if they are the right choice for you.

Are composite windows better than uPVC windows?

When comparing composite windows to uPVC windows, it’s essential to consider your priorities, as both offer unique benefits in their own rights.

Composite windows are generally considered a premium option due to their superior durability and energy efficiency.

Constructed from a combination of materials, their multi-layered design gives them an edge in withstanding harsh weather conditions without defecting, making them highly durable and low maintenance.

Their thermal performance is often superior to uPVC, which can result in better insulation and, over time, lower energy bills.

In terms of aesthetics, composite windows offer a more refined appearance.

They provide more customisation options in terms of colours and finishes, making them an attractive choice for homeowners looking to maintain or enhance their home’s architectural style.

On the other hand, uPVC windows are more budget-friendly. While not as durable as composite windows, they offer good thermal insulation and require minimal maintenance.

Conclusion

It’s hard to overlook composite windows if you’re looking for a high-performance, thermally efficient glazing solution.

They are one of the more premium options on the market, but the investment is often justified through their long life span and performance figures.

If you would like to know more about how our range of composite windows could feature in your home, book a showroom visit.

You’ll be able to speak to our expert team and they’ll guide you through finding the perfect option that matches the style, space and budget you have available.