Windows manufactured from
aluminum are better suited to commercial buildings rather than a home. The reason
for this is aluminum lends itself to the production of very large windows where
structural stiffness becomes a concern. For the average home, alternative materials
such as vinyl have plenty of strength to do the job. In addition other, non metallic
materials, offer far greater energy savings in that they do not conduct heat
or cold the way a metal such as aluminum will.
There are various techniques
used to increase the energy efficiency of aluminum such as thermal breaks made
up of plastic strips but even these do not make aluminum a logical choice for
the home owner.
One application of aluminum
in modern replacements is through "cladding". With this the manufacturer will
cover the exterior of a wood window thus increasing the outer protection. Thus
you can have a traditional look, energy saving construction material, and
exterior free maintenance.
