The frame material affects the look and care of a window, but it does not describe the whole product. Compare actual systems for the opening, glass and finish you want.
Start with the view from inside and outside. Then check how each proposal opens, what maintenance it needs and what is included in the price.
Compare the materials on the same basis
Use this checklist when looking at samples and quotations.
Choice | Appearance to compare | Care information to request | Design information to check
uPVC | Frame shape, finish and visible joints | Cleaning and care of the finish, seals and fittings | Available opening layout and complete-window performance
Timber | Type of timber, paint or stain and joint detail | Inspection, cleaning and coating care for the selected finish | Drawing of the proposed frame, opening layout and glass
Aluminium | Profile shape, coating and frame divisions | Cleaning and care of the coating, seals and fittings | Available opening layout and complete-window performance
Use the supplier's information for the actual product. A material label cannot establish its permitted dimensions, price or performance.
Look at the finish and frame together
Ask for a sample representing the quoted system. Compare both sides with the house and room. A similar colour name on uPVC, painted timber and coated aluminium may give a different appearance.
Check the frame divisions in a drawing of your opening. A photograph of a much larger window is not a reliable guide to how your layout will look.
Understand aluminium-clad timber
Aluminium-clad timber combines a timber frame and timber appearance inside with aluminium cladding outside. The cladding is on the weather-facing side.
This is a separate construction from an all-aluminium window. Ask for the particular timber-and-cladding system and its care instructions. The outside cladding does not remove the need to care for glass, seals, fittings and the interior finish.
Compare the complete proposed window
Ask for performance information covering the size, opening arrangement and glazing you are considering. A glass-only figure does not describe the whole window. If noise, security or access matters, ask what applies to that design.
Check VAT, delivery, fitting and agreed work around the opening. Compare the same work before judging the difference in totals.
Plan the work for your home
Send labelled photos, approximate inside measurements and your postcode for an initial estimate. Tell us about difficult access or property restrictions. After you accept the estimate, a final survey checks the order details.
Ask for the planned installation dates and duration for your actual project. Material alone does not establish how long installation will take.
Questions
Which material is best?
Compare the available systems against your appearance, care and performance requirements. There is no single answer for every opening.
In aluminium-clad timber, which material is outside?
The aluminium cladding is outside; the timber is visible inside. Ask to see the construction of the proposed product.
Can different materials achieve similar performance?
Ask for the complete-window figures of the actual options. Do not assume a result from the material name alone.
Send photos, approximate sizes and your postcode. Tell us which material or appearance you want to compare.
