Steel

Very large steel window with grilles looking out at a pool in the bedroom of a large Tuscan-style home.

Head of the class.

More than any other window and door material, steel makes a statement. It is synonymous with luxury, elegance, and refinement. It owns a sophistication all its own, and its design malleability makes it a favorite of many architects.

  • Strength and Security:

    • Exceptional strength, can accommodate large panel sizes combined with very narrow sightlines, and its material hardness performs very well against forced entry.

    Durability and Longevity:

    • Resistant to warping, cracking, rotting, and pests. Stands tall in the harshest of climates, and can last for generations.

    Aesthetic Appeal:

    • Slim frame profiles allow for grand, expansive, and unobstructed use of glass, allowing for lots of natural light and design appeal. Well suited for modern, industrial, and historical projects.

    Low Maintenance:

    • Minimal upkeep required.

    Energy Efficiency:

    • Excellent energy efficiency, especially when combined with thermal breaks, insulated glass units, and low-e coatings.

    Design Versatility:

    • Can accommodate a variety of finishes and colors to match different architectural styles.

    Eco-Friendly:

    • Highly recyclable, reducing environmental impact.

    Noise Reduction:

    • Highly effective at dampening outside noise for quieter interiors.

Aluminum

Long rectangular window and sliding door on the on the balcony of a west Los Angeles modern home at sunset.

Its own instrument.

While steel may carry a bit more cachet, aluminum windows and doors certainly do not play second fiddle. They are renown for a sleek, contemporary aesthetic combined with a diverse functionality that is unmatched.

  • Strength and Security:

    • Has a strength-to-weight ratio that can’t be touched, can accommodate large panel sizes combined with narrow sightlines, and aside from steel, performs well against forced entry.

    Durability and Longevity:

    • Resistant to warping, cracking, rotting, and pests, can hold its own in harsh weather, and has an impressive lifespan.

    Aesthetic Appeal:

    • With a contemporary look and slim frame profiles, it allows for expansive use of glass, allowing for lots of natural light and design appeal.

    Low Maintenance:

    • Almost zero upkeep.

    Energy Efficiency:

    • Impressive energy efficiency, especially when combined with thermal breaks, insulated glass units, and low-e coatings.

    Design Versatility:

    • Can accommodate a variety of finishes and colors to match different architectural styles.

    Eco-Friendly:

    • Highly recyclable, reducing environmental impact.

     Noise Reduction:

    • Effective at dampening outside noise for quieter interiors

Wood

Large empty room with an expansive wood-framed picture window and sliding door looking out at an affluent neighborhood.

Timeless warmth.

Hands down, wood windows and doors are timeless—literally and figuratively. The material brings a warmth and beauty that is all its own, and its ability to be customized is unparalleled.

  • Durability and Longevity:

    • While there is much more maintenance required than the other materials, with proper treatment and care it can last for generations.

    Aesthetic Appeal:

    • With its unique grain patterns, timeless beauty and warmth, it has a classic style all its own.

    Energy Efficiency:

    • Superior energy efficiency, far outperforming steel and aluminum.

    Design Versatility:

    • Can be shaped and formed to fit nearly any design requirement, as well as practically any opening.

    Eco-Friendly:

    • A true sustainable choice due it being a renewable resource that can decompose naturally when needed.

    Noise Reduction:

    • Its natural material absorbs and dampens sound, creating a quieter space.

     Resistant to Rust:

    • Good for humid climates.

uPVC / Vinyl

Empty room with large black-framed, uPVC windows and doors looking out at green grass and a lake.

Its own category

When searching for a window and door material that boasts undeniable energy performanc and cost effectiveness, uPVC (Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride) is the clear choice.

  • Durability:

    • Resistant to warping, non-corroding, resists moisture, and performs well in a multitude of weather environments.

     Low Maintenance:

    • Almost zero upkeep.

    Energy Efficiency:

    • Due to its naturally insulating properties, the energy performance is exceptional. More so than both steel, aluminum, and even wood.

    Affordability:

    • This is a more cost-conscious option when compared to the more premium materials.

    Noise Reduction:

    • When combined with multi-pane insulated glass units and other modern technologies, the result is a very quiet space.