Frame materials & finishes
The frame material shapes the price, the look and the upkeep of your windows for decades. Comparing the main window frame materials fairly means understanding what each does well before you weigh the numbers.
uPVC: the practical all-rounder
uPVC is the most common frame material in the UK, and for good reason. It is the most affordable option, needs almost no maintenance beyond an occasional wipe, and modern profiles insulate well. It now comes in a wide range of colours and woodgrain foils, so it no longer means plain white. The trade-offs are that very slim sightlines are harder to achieve and colours are a surface finish rather than the material itself.
Aluminium: slim, strong and modern
Aluminium frames are strong, so they can be thinner while holding larger panes — ideal for a contemporary look with maximum glass. They are durable, powder-coated in almost any colour and very low-maintenance. They typically cost more than uPVC, and while older aluminium was a thermal weak point, modern “thermally broken” frames insulate well. This is the go-to for big picture windows and minimalist extensions.
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Get into the quote zone →Timber: character and heritage
Timber is the traditional choice and often the only option approved for listed buildings or conservation areas. It looks authentic, can be repaired rather than replaced, and modern engineered timber is far more stable than the softwood of old. The trade-off is upkeep: timber needs periodic repainting or re-staining to stay weathertight, and it usually carries the highest price. For a period property, the character can be worth it.
Finishes and colours
Whatever the material, the finish is a line on the quote worth checking. Coloured foils on uPVC, powder-coat colours on aluminium and paint or stain on timber all add cost, and dual-colour options (a different shade inside and out) usually add more. Confirm whether the colour is standard or a special-order finish, because that affects both the price and the lead time.
The frame choice interacts with the glass options on your quote and helps explain why window quotes vary so much. If value across the whole job is your priority, it is worth reading about which window materials give the best value before you decide.
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