Origin's Aluminium Windows are a popular choice for contemporary and traditional homes. They are versatile, sleek and perform without compromise. Casement Windows offer practical configuration options. This guide covers everything you need to know from the various glazing options, through to systems and styles available. You can even compare aluminium casement windows to other window types to help you find the best solution.
Click on one of the sections below to learn more:
Durable, modern and sleek windows can add long-term value to your home
Compare window materials to help you determine the right option
Understand what can impact the cost and why you should choose a high-quality product
Explore the Premium OW80 and the Slimline OW70
This way of painting gives windows a uniform, flawless and low-maintenance finish
Provides better insulation against noise and heat, enhancing indoor comfort and reducing energy bills
Further reduce heat loss and increase a home’s thermal efficiency
All Origin Windows feature all of the above security features
Planning permission may be required for new windows but generally they fall under permitted developments.
This section explores some popular aluminium window designs and types
Why choose aluminium windows?
Aluminium windows add instant kerb appeal with their sleek and modern design. The benefits don’t end with aesthetics either. Aluminium windows are incredibly low-maintenance and offer greater longevity when compared with low-grade uPVC or softwoods. This makes them a great long-term investment.
Unlike timber windows of which are painted, aluminium windows are powder-coated in a colour of your choice (we offer over 150 options ). As they require no priming, sanding or repainting, it makes aluminium windows a hassle-free option. Additionally, aluminium windows that are fitted with thermal breaks can be incredibly energy-efficient . Plus, with their inherent strength, they often feature slim sightlines. This maximises views of the outdoors and natural light.
Aluminium is also 100% recyclable and is resistant to harsh weather conditions, flexing, and warping over time. Finally, aluminium is a lightweight and versatile option. It weighs 67% less than steel and therefore offers a much higher strength-to-weight ratio. This allows for slim sightlines, the capability of being able to be made in vast sizes, as well as an effortless operation.
The practical benefits of aluminium windows
● Low maintenance
● Superior longevity
● Resistant to rotting, twisting, flexing or moving out of alignment
● Huge range of colours and finishes
● Three distinct styles available: Georgian, Gallery, or Soho
● Slim sightlines
● Excellent thermal efficiency
● Elegant designs for both contemporary and traditional homes
● 100% recyclable
Aluminium windows vs uPVC and timber
If you are wondering whether to choose aluminium windows, uPVC or timber windows , read on to understand their individual advantages.
While it is true that basic, off-the-shelf uPVC windows tend to be cheaper to buy than aluminium windows, you should bear in mind that this lower cost will not necessarily offer long-term value. Your choice of windows has an enormous impact on your home's appearance, and they need to perform well over the long term to ensure security and usability.
There are also several advantages to aluminium windows over wooden frames; one being their minimal maintenance requirements . Aluminium is also much more durable. Wood offers a traditional aesthetic and naturally impressive insulation. However, they can be prone to warping, which can affect alignment, operation, and security in the long run. They will also need regular painting or sealing to keep them looking and performing their best.
| Pros | Cons | |
|---|---|---|
Aluminium |
| Higher investment |
uPVC |
|
|
Timber |
|
|
How does the cost of aluminium windows compare?
Whilst it is true that aluminium windows cost more than entry-level uPVC, their operational longevity, durability and sleek design can be worth the additional investment.
The actual cost of aluminium windows varies widely depending on the project's specifications. Factors that influence this include who is supplying and installing the windows, the glass chosen, any extras, and the amount of preparatory work needed. Here is a quick guide to the relative prices of different materials.
● Most expensive: Engineered timber, steel, hardwoods
● Moderate (this largely depends on the quality and manufacturer): Aluminium, composite, timber
● Least expensive: uPVC
Find your local installer for an accurate quote
Fitting Aluminium Windows
Don’t forget to factor in the cost of glass and the fitting of the aluminium windows. This will be an additional charge on top of the window frames themselves. Ensure your new windows are properly fitted by using our Find an Installer tool. Your installer will also be the one to source the glass and complete the install, so it’s important to find someone you trust. Read our article here about choosing a tradesperson .
Your chosen installer can provide a more accurate quote based on your project's exact requirements.
Origin window systems explained
Here at Origin, we offer two systems: the Premium OW80 and the Slimline OW70 . Both window styles offer a guarantee of up to 20-years, are totally bespoke and come with versatile personalisation options. This includes colour choices, hardware and configurations.
A flush casement design refers to the way the opening part of the window and the frame sit when closed. When it sits flush, it means the casement sits seamlessly inside the frame without any overlap, lipping or protrusion.
The OW80 has an industry-unique internal and external flush casement design for a truly elegant finish, whilst the OW70 features an external flush casement.
Are Origin aluminium windows thermally efficient?
Modern aluminium windows often use a thermal break technology such as polyamide.
The aluminium frame is separated into inner and outer sections, and a polyamide break is a less conductive material that is sandwiched between them. This prevents heat transfer and means it keeps the internal temperature in and the outside temperature out. While most aluminium windows tend to have a thermal break, systems will all offer a different level of thermal efficiency depending on design and quality.
Read more about the thermal efficiency of aluminium windows here
The Origin Premium OW80 Aluminium Window
The Premium OW80 Aluminium Window is the only window available that can be upgraded to incorporate space-age technology: Aerogel. Aerogel will allow your windows to achieve a U-Value as low as 0.8. This material was originally designed to keep astronauts warm by insulating spacesuits and space shuttles, but now, it can also insulate your home.
Made of super-insulating silica, Aerogel has the lowest thermal conductivity of any known solid material. When specified, Origin uses it within the thermal break of the OW80 Window to improve insulation by up to 67%. This considerably limits heat transfer from inside the window to the outside. This ensures that your home remains warm in winter and cool in summer, helping maintain a comfortable living temperature year-round.
Unlike many other aluminium window systems, the OW80 has an internal and external flush casement design. This sits precisely in line with the frame, giving it a streamlined, elegant and contemporary finish.
In addition to being available in large, complex configurations and sizes, it's also Secured by Design accredited , offering complete peace of mind against tampering and intrusion attempts. The windows are fitted with multi-point locks, heavy-duty hinges, hinge guards and crimped frames.
Slimline Aluminium Windows
A term you might often see when choosing aluminium window frames is ‘slim frames’ or ‘thin sightlines’, and if minimalism is the style you’re trying to achieve, this is a key thing to look out for. The slimmer the frame, the less profile that is used, and this helps maximise light and views.
The Origin Slimline OW70 Aluminium Window
One of the main benefits of the OW70 Window is its sightlines. With profiles as slim as 65mm, it allows maximum natural light to flood your home and provide unobstructed views of the outside.
On top of its slim sightlines , the OW70 offers a beautifully elegant and modern appearance thanks to its flush external finish. The windows are also available in fixed, casement, or bay configurations.
Powder-coated aluminium windows
A window that has been powder-coated has gone through an extensive process of pre-treatment cleaning, application and curing. This way of painting gives windows a uniform, flawless and low-maintenance finish . Powder-coated aluminium windows are considered superior to those that have been painted. They are weather-resistant and offer optimal durability. It is worth noting that more routine maintenance will be required in certain areas, such as coastal properties. However, we offer marine-grade powdercoating to enhance their longevity.
Can you get aluminium windows in any colour?
The most popular colours for aluminium windows are usually Jet Black, Anthracite Grey or Hipca White. However, we offer over 150 RAL colours to choose from, including pastel shades, bright greens, and muted neutrals. This allows you to find a colour to suit your home. Many are experimenting with bright colour palettes to make the windows the focal point.
You can also choose a dual-colour option, where the inside and outside frames of your windows can be different colours, helping you perfectly match the interior décor and exterior building styles.
Double-glazed aluminium windows
Double-glazed aluminium windows, as the name suggests, consist of two panes of glass, while triple-glazed aluminium windows are made up of three. Between the panes of glass is a gap containing an inert gas, such as argon. This is heavier than air and provides better insulation against noise and heat, enhancing indoor comfort and reducing energy bills.
When evaluating thermal performance, pay attention to the U-Value. The lower the number, the better the thermal resistance. Depending on the glass used, the U-Value of the OW80 aluminium window with double-glazing can be as low as 1.4W/m²K. For context, a single-glazed window has a U-Value of around 5.0W/m²K (something to consider if you are renovating a period property).
It is worth noting that different types of glass are available with both double and triple-glazed windows. This can include laminated, reflective, annealed or tinted glass, and these will all affect the U-Value the window can offer.
Triple-glazed aluminium windows
Triple-glazed windows have a third pane of glass between the inner and outer panes. This creates two air locks which will further reduce heat loss and increase a home’s thermal efficiency.
Triple-glazed aluminium windows can cost between 10%-20% more than double-glazed windows, and many people ask whether they are worth the extra cost. In truth, it depends on your circumstances and the type of house you are living in. If, for example, your house is poorly insulated elsewhere, then there is little point in the extra outlay for triple-glazed windows. If, on the other hand, you live in a well-insulated home or are building a house and aiming to achieve Passivhaus standards , they can be worth it.
Origin Premium OW80 Aluminium Windows, using triple-glazing and Aerogel technology , can achieve a U-Value of 0.8W/m²K to further enhance comfort, energy efficiency and noise reduction compared to double-glazing alone.
Origin Windows can accommodate both double and triple-glazing units. Your chosen installer will talk you through the options and help you make the right choice for your home.
Are aluminium windows secure?
When it comes to selecting new windows for your home, one of the top priorities is ensuring they offer you maximum security. It’s important that you choose products that comply with PAS 24 which is the recognised standard for doors and windows manufactured in the UK. On top of this, there are several features to look out for, including:
● High quality aluminium window frames
● Sturdy hinges that are capable of withstanding heavy loads (aim to buy those that meet or exceed the standardised 50,000 cycle test required for residential windows)
● Night vent functions that allow windows to be slightly open for fresh air in a locked position
● Hinge guards to protect hinges and stop intruders from jemmying the window open
● High quality multi-point locking systems
● Locking handles
All Origin Windows feature all of the above security features, along with a few extras too. Both OW70 and OW80 systems are also Police preferred Secured by Design accredited.
Aluminium windows planning permission
Although replacement windows rarely require a planning application , there are certain cases where it may be a necessity. If you are in any doubt, it is always worth checking with your local planning department. Planning permission for new aluminium windows may be required in the following circumstances:
● If you intend on changing the size of window openings, especially in cases where overlooking may be an issue
● If you live in a listed building, planning permission will almost certainly be required
● In Conservation Areas, Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty or in any other designated areas, such as National Parks, you may be required to apply for planning permission
● Large bay windows sometimes require planning permission if they project significantly outwards
In most cases, however, replacement aluminium windows will fall under Permitted Development .
Configuration options for aluminium casement windows?
Not sure how you want your casement windows to look? This section explores some popular aluminium window designs and types
● Top hung casement windows: this window type opens outwards from the bottom
● Side hung casement windows: these open outwards to the right or left
● Fixed frame casement windows: these don't have an opening casement, so frame your view
● Dummy sash: a non-opening casement window that is designed to visually match an opening casement
● Bay windows: a configuration of casement and fixed windows to fit into an aperture and project or protrude from the brickwork
● French Windows: a pair of hinged windows that open with a floating mullion
● Tilt and Turn Windows: their tilt function opens inwards for ventilation. Their turn function allows for full outward opening like a side-hung casement
Alternatives to casement windows
● Bifold windows: windows that concertina open and stack away for a panoramic view
● Gable windows: angled windows designed to fit the pitch of your gable roof to flood the home with natural light
● Sash windows: windows that slide vertically open, also called double hung windows
Casement window styles
There has been a surge of interest lately in industrial-style windows, reminiscent of steel-effect windows, glazing bars and Georgian bars. Origin aluminium windows and doors can be specified with Georgian or Soho bars to offer a more heritage feel. Aluminium offers better durability compared to traditional timber Georgian grids, and it is cheaper than industrial-inspired steel window frames. Explore our case studies for window design inspiration.
