Historically, the biggest criticism of aluminum windows was their thermal conductivity; metal naturally transfers heat from the outside in. However, the industry has addressed this through the development of frames.
Why Aluminum Windows Are the Smart Choice for Phoenix Homeowners
This is the only type suitable for a Phoenix energy bill. aluminum windows phoenix
If you are eco-conscious, aluminum is infinitely recyclable. Most aluminum on the market today contains recycled content. When you finally replace these windows 40 years from now, that frame can be melted down and turned into something new. Vinyl? It usually ends up in the landfill.
We all know about the Urban Heat Island effect. Your window frames sit on the west side of your house absorbing 115°F heat. Vinyl frames can actually begin to soften and sag in extreme heat. Historically, the biggest criticism of aluminum windows was
Aluminum is tough. It is structurally stronger than vinyl at a thinner profile. That means you can have larger glass panes (better views of those mountain sunsets) without sacrificing the structural integrity needed to withstand sudden Valley storms.
Disclaimer: If you are looking at a 1980s aluminum window, do not buy it. Old, non-thermal break aluminum windows are terrible. They sweat condensation (rare here) and transfer heat like a frying pan. If you are eco-conscious, aluminum is infinitely recyclable
Because aluminum is stronger than vinyl, window frames can be much thinner. This means more glass and less frame, giving you unobstructed views of those stunning desert sunsets and mountain vistas. The slim profile offers a modern, mid-century modern aesthetic that fits perfectly with Phoenix architecture.
: Modern aluminum windows, like those offered by Energy Shield or AZ Valley Windows , utilize a non-conductive barrier (often polyamide or polyurethane) "zipped" between the interior and exterior frames. This break effectively stops the transfer of heat, drastically improving energy efficiency.