The differences between aluminium and uPVC sliding doors are not necessarily apparent right away, and both options are extremely popular. However, there are distinct differences between the two that quickly become obvious.
Aluminium is a very lightweight and durable material that proves to be aesthetically pleasing. The sliding doors made from aluminium are characterised by their ultra-slim sightlines and expansive glazed panels. They also offer great energy efficiency and weatherproofing. uPVC, on the other hand, offers a similar lightweight and thermal design, but is bulkier than its alternative and will not prove as sleek.
In this article, we go into more detail about the differences and advantages of the two options so you’re more prepared to decide which type of sliding door is more suitable for you.
Click the links below to jump to the relevant section:
Read what uPVC stands for.
Find out the differences between each material in terms of aesthetics and style.
Read about the practicalities of each option, including durability and maintenance.
Find out which option is more expensive when it comes to sliding doors.
Read our guide to the pros and cons of uPVC sliding doors and aluminium sliding doors.
Find out more about Origin Sliding Doors.
We answer common queries on choosing between uPVC and aluminium sliding doors.
What is uPVC?
Short for Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride, uPVC is a low-maintenance building material often used in place of painted wood for new buildings or when replacing older windows or doors. Extremely versatile, uPVC can also be used for siding, weatherboarding, and fascias. It is one of the other most common material choices for sliding doors, with the others being aluminium and timber.
You might recognise the material from plumbing, guttering, downpipes, and drainpipes where it has almost entirely replaced cast iron as a material.
uPVC vs aluminium sliding doors
So how does uPVC hold up against aluminium as a material for sliding doors? We’ve included a list of the key areas for comparison below so you can see for yourself:
Aesthetics
Both provide ideal security features; however, aluminium does prove more durable under force. Additionally, both are lightweight and designed for easy use, but you may find that aluminium is an easier material to maintain and keep clean compared to uPVC, which can stain and discolour in sunlight.
Practicalities
It’s important to consider how each material will complement your property and location. The style of your home can have a big impact on what will look best. Aluminium can be used across modern contemporary or traditional properties as it’s available in different sightline options as well as a huge amount of colours. uPVC on the other hand may work better where you’re only replacing the door and the existing windows are PVC in order to keep the fenestration products consistent in style in your property. Its colour options in comparison to aluminium are typically limited.
uPVC tends to not be as strong as aluminium, and subsequently, sightlines tend to be bulkier and not be able to offer large panel sizes. It is also more likely to warp if overheated which can affect operation and longevity.
On average, uPVC could last between 20-35 years with aluminium lasting up to 45 years.
Which option is more expensive?
Generally, uPVC sliding doors will be cheaper for purchase and installation than aluminium. However, many will find that this initial price save will prove detrimental. Due to uPVC’s thicker frames and shorter lifespan, the increased price of aluminium sliding doors can be worth it.
Key pros and cons of each option
Aluminium
Pros
Stronger than uPVC; extruded in long, solid lengths of high-grade material
Available in a variety of colours and styles (including gloss, satin and matt options as well as woodgrain)
Lifespan of circa 45 years
Recommended for all direction-facing properties
Incredibly weather-resistant
Excellent insulator: can reduce your energy bills and carbon footprint
Cons
More expensive than uPVC
UPVC
Pros
Available in a variety of colours and styles (including woodgrain)
Cheaper than aluminium
Unlike timber, uPVC will not rot
Keeps your property well-insulated
Cons
Shorter lifespan than aluminium
Plastic warms and expands under sunlight, meaning uPVC sliding doors will become more difficult to open and close over time
Not recommended for south-facing properties
Often have bulky frames and sightlines
Isn’t able to accommodate large individual panel or door sizes
Origin’s aluminium sliding doors
Committed to delivering first-in-class design, Origin manufactures spectacular window and door solutions that are suitable for any building project. Offering two flagship sliding door systems, the Origin Artisan Slider and the Origin Patio Slider, we are proud to offer some of the slimmest sliding doors in the UK, giving you the views you deserve.
Your sliding door options with Origin include totally customisable sizes, configurations, colours, and handle style options.
At Origin, our doors are bespoke, are British manufactured and come with a guarantee of up to 20-years, all on unbeatable lead times, low maintenance, and offer a focus on safety and security.
Frequently asked questions
Are aluminium doors or uPVC doors stronger?
Aluminium is a stronger material because it is a metal constructed through the extrusion of pure high-grade material. This means that, because the frame of aluminium sliding doors is stronger, they can be designed with a larger glass surface area.
What are the advantages of uPVC doors?
This material is typically cheaper than aluminium, low maintenance and thermally efficient.
Which sliding door is right for you?
It will depend on your budget, location (temperate, climate, weather), property aesthetics, and individual needs as a homeowner. We recommend discussing your individual needs with your local trade partner.
What is an aluminium sliding patio door?
Sliding patio doors are a door system that’s manufactured with a slim aluminium frame and offer expansive glass panels to give a glass-wall effect and will fill your home with natural light.
Contact your local installer today
Origin is the UK’s leading specialist manufacturer of bespoke aluminium bi-folding doors and windows. We combine high-grade aluminium with precision engineering to create functional and elegant products that are designed to last.
For more information about our aluminium sliding doors, get in touch with your local installer or browse our range of aluminium sliding doors.
