Aluminium Windows

Modern aluminium windows come with the best in sightlines, excellent weather performance, security and colour options.  With significant improvements over early generations of windows, the products you buy today no longer suffer from poor energy efficiency, limited colour choices or high maintenance subframes.  

Advances in profile technology, construction, hardware and glass now mean today’s products provide a solution for virtually any kind of customer requirement.

Information about aluminium windows.

The construction of the best aluminium windows starts with aluminium extrusions and profiles meeting specific industry standards for quality, conformity and type. Added to these are a selection of thermal break and added insulation making the frames insulated and preventing cold bridging.

Other pages In this section

Who makes the best Aluminium Windows?

Find out which aluminium windows are the best in terms of brand, quality, traditional and contemporary designs, opening options and more.

Aluminium Windows buying guide

Everything you need to know about buying aluminium windows to replace old ones, a new build home or an extension.

Aluminium window manufacturing remains largely a hand-assembled process. Machines only carry out cutting and the preparation of machined holes, slots and drainage. Because aluminium windows are hand-assembled and made-to-order you’ll rarely find stock size and designs.

Glass available with aluminium windows

The glass used in aluminium windows also comes in different thicknesses, such as double or triple glazing. Choosing the right glass in the window ensures the best U-Values and energy-saving properties.  Furthermore, windows have extensive options for enhanced security, improved acoustics, privacy or shade.

Energy efficiency in aluminium windows works best with the thermally insulated frame combined with a good specification glass unit. As a minimum, most products come with double-glazed units having a soft-coat low-emissivity coating, warm edge spacer bars and an argon gas fill. 

Energy efficiency of aluminium windows.

Very energy-efficient windows in aluminium include triple-glazed Passivhaus products and those with enhanced insulation. Senior Architectural, for instance, offers the PURE suite of windows with a polyurethane thermal break with excellent performance. Origin OW-80 casement windows come with the option of better energy efficiency when specified with Aerogel.

Finally, some of the best performing windows for U-Values or Window Energy Ratings are hybrid windows. These use a combination of wood on the inside and aluminium inside. The solid wood internally creates an excellent thermal barrier and helps lower energy bills.

Powder-coated colours and finishes.

The surface of aluminium windows inside and out comes with a durable powder-coated finish in over 150 different colours.  Also available with aluminium windows are woodgrain finishes, dual colours, metallics and even textured surfaces.

Anodised windows create a contemporary metallic appearance and provide even more durability than powder coating, but at an additional cost.

What finishes you get with aluminium windows depends on several factors. These include available stock, the colour range specified, whether satin, matt or gloss and what the company chooses to offer outside of a special order colour.

Security of windows for the home.

The security of fixed or opening windows is also excellent. As well as multi-point locking systems, there are top brand locks such as Yale used with Origin aluminium windows and other brands offering significant protection.  These combine with high-quality handles or methods for conveniently opening windows at a high level.

Whether your windows come internally or externally beaded, most good brands are tested to the same stringent security standards such as Secured by Design, PAS24 or Document Q for new build homes.

Designs and styles of windows.

There is no PVCu or timber product on the market offering the slimline proportions of aluminium. With these slim sightlines comes inherent profile strength, without needing the additional multiple chambers, aluminium or steel reinforcing of PVCu. As a result, fixed or opening windows come at wider and taller sizes, larger opening elements and offer scope for apex windows, picture windows above doors or floor-to-ceiling glazing such as the type used in architectural glazing. The designs and styles also offer several window types and styles.

When it comes to opening methods, there are many choices.  Fixed, outward or inward opening, tilting, reversible and even parallel opening are just some of the options. There’s even more information about the different types of aluminium windows.

Windows for new or existing openings.

Available with direct fix frames, most products fit easily where they’re replacing existing windows. 70mm or 75mm frames make replacing old timber or plastic windows easy with only routine trims and architraves required internally.

For new openings, there are several types of frames available, ensuring some of the thinnest sightlines.  Finally, you’ll find frame options for fitting to existing stone, hardwood frames and other building features.

Contemporary and traditional aluminium frames.

Many perceive aluminium as only suitable for contemporary houses and new extensions.  In fact, most good brands offer a choice of frame, opening lights and even different cills such as timber look.

Therefore, choose profiles in a chamfered style working well in more traditional houses, with a rounded look to the outer frame, vent and even the mullions and transoms.

Cottages and properties with stone or wood surround also work well with aluminium. Here, there are solutions for slim flat or profiled frames, including glazing beads offering a putty-look similar to the original.  These types of windows are also perfect for steel-look windows with matching doors.

Whether you need a contemporary or traditionally-styled appearance in the home, Origin, Aluk, Smart Systems and the brand new Stellar Aluminium System all offer flush casement designs – another innovation in aluminium, previously only available with PVCu or timber windows. Coming in 2020 is the new Sheerline system offering similar specifications to other window brands on the market.

Windows for conservation areas and listed buildings.

kawneer powder coated aluminium windows
GT70 Steel Replacement from Kawneer makes for great residential windows.

Homeowners with a Listed property or those with a home in a Conservation Area and Areas of Outstanding Natural Beauty may find the current range of slimline and heritage windows suitable to their local Planning Authority or Conservation Officer.  However, every installation is different and our advice is always to consult with your local authority at the outset.

Depending on the level of work you are intending to undertake, we would usually recommend also taking a look a the Historic England website to check the status of your building. The site also has information about what grants may be available. Then, working with a professional installer and if necessary a planning professional you should be able to find the right system.

Window Brands and Systems.

Shuco, Reynaers, Kawneer are generally regarded as upper-tier aluminium windows. Mid-range brands include Comar, Origin, Senior Systems, Stellar, Sheerline Windows, Aluk and Smart Systems. There are also other reasonably priced brands from other systems companies.

The range of aluminium systems and brands is extensive.  There are established systems, new window products emerging and specialist products from expert manufacturers.  We list some of the best-known brands. In addition to framed products, options exist for having frameless windows in the home. 

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Andrew DOBSONAndrew DOBSON
16:42 30 Oct 23
Nick responded incredibly quickly to my enquiry (on a Saturday too!), and was able to offer invaluable advice on both aluminum systems and manufacturer / suppliers. Thanks Nick!
chris steerchris steer
16:18 09 Oct 23
Had a meeting with Nick during the grand designs show. Was extremely helpful and professional would highly recommend
Chris WesthorpChris Westhorp
19:55 13 Sep 23
Extremely helpful with pointing us in the right direction to find the products we required and suggesting firms that could reliably fit them.Nick was quick to reply and very detailed in his advice.Highly recommend reaching out to them.
Cathy GreenwoodCathy Greenwood
07:03 11 Sep 23
Update - A second email to nick for help on bifolds resulted in a detailed informative reply even on a Sunday ! This guy is so knowledgable and helpful .I approached Nick for an independent view on sliding doors v bifold and the different brand options . His reply was extremely detailed and prompt and allowed me to navigate this often confusing world in a much more informed way . Thanks so much Nick
Anthony CraigAnthony Craig
12:45 05 Sep 23
This is a must site for anyone looking for advice. Great service and very quick answers to questions. Nick has been of great help quiding us through the maze of aluminium products. Thank you
Philip DuffieldPhilip Duffield
20:24 26 Jul 23
I contacted Nick @ ATS for guidance on what aluminium sliding door systems would be suitable for an opening in an extension that is going to be both wide and tall. He came back really quickly with very detailed and incredibly helpful advice. He is clearly extremely knowledgeable about the systems on the market and their respective features and capabilities. If you’re feeling a bit lost by the overwhelming range of choices out there, I’d definitely recommend contacting him.
Dariush HekmatDariush Hekmat
17:25 19 Jul 23
Nick's advice is great. He is always quick to respond and spends time on responses, which really help to make an informed decision.
Alan FosterAlan Foster
07:51 12 Jul 23
Absolutely fantastic. Asked for advice about replacing Crittall (?) windows late last night and early this morning received 3 great suggestions and contact information for suppliers
Rachel LauRachel Lau
09:24 16 Jun 23
Fantastic website full of valuable and pragmatic advice about product selection and comparison: no other website gives information like this. Truly written for public interest. Don't hesistate to reach out to Nick via the mailing system. He responds very quickly, is friendly, and has very sound and high knowledgable advice. I have already shared this with my friend planning her own grand design.
guard Charlieguard Charlie
12:28 14 May 23
I emailed this company just on the off chance they could help me with new magnetic sliders for my patio door. They were not able to supply those but were so very helpful providing me with the name of a company who could. I am so very grateful at the great service. Dare say customers must be very happy. thank you so much.
Benjamin LewisBenjamin Lewis
10:06 04 May 23
Nick is very helpful indeed. Extremely knowledgeable on bifolds which was in relation to my query. Great website as well, some very useful articles. Particularly appreciated the article that lists all the major bifold options in order of their sightlines! Thank you!
P JonesP Jones
08:07 15 Apr 23
I asked Nick some questions about an installation we were considering and he replied within hours with some very useful suggestions that will probably lead us to using a different make and supplier. Thanks, Nick. Great work.
Nicholas WallNicholas Wall
13:18 02 Apr 23
Looking for fair and honest expert advice on all aspect of aluminium windows and doors? These guys will arm you with all the information you need to make the RIGHT choice in a highly complex, crowded marketplace. post a question and you will get a very quick professional answer you can rely on being based on fact. Thanks guys!
Giorgia SiriacoGiorgia Siriaco
16:25 21 Mar 23
After a lot of research to find doors that would meet our unusual size requirements and feeling increasingly uncertain about the best way to spend our small budget, I stumbled on the ATS website, and I'm so glad I did! I contacted ATS to request advice and Nick promptly replied with a wealth of information, providing us with options and relevant contact details. I only wish I'd found them sooner!
Carol NortonCarol Norton
10:01 17 Mar 23
I've been so confused about how to achieve the look I'm after, and going round in circles with various window/door companies, trying to get away from the huge chunks of plastic currently around my windows. I didn't expect an email to a company found through a Google search to really help - but I was desperate, so I tried. I'm SO glad I did. Finally I have clear explanations from ATS of where I've been going wrong, exactly what I'm looking for, and a list of local companies that might be able to provide it! The response has excelled my expectations and I feel as if I'm finally inching closer to a home with which I'll be happy and comfortable: thank you.
David NunnDavid Nunn
20:54 14 Mar 23
It is rare that I write reviews, however after my very positive communication with Nick - enquiring about suitable slim sash aluminium windows for my project, I felt that a review was definitely warranted. I can reinforce the many positive reviews posted so far, Nick was very quick to respond, providing comprehensive detail, with excellent independent advice.In summary, great service, thank you Nick.
Chantal AuerbachChantal Auerbach
13:04 09 Mar 23
Nick from Aluminium Trade Supply was incredibly helpful informative and pleasant to deal with. He responded quickly to emails and was very knowledgeable. Highly recommend being in touch with Nick if you are considering new aluminium windows or doors.
Lee JonesLee Jones
20:21 22 Feb 23
I dropped Nick at Aluminium Trade Supply an email re high security slim sightline bi-folds and their alternatives and he responded that quickly (and so comprehensively) that I felt bad I’d not paid him for his time!Nick Sir your product knowledge is outstanding and you are providing a level of service that goes wayyyy above and beyond expectations. I’ll definitely make sure I mention Aluminium Trade Supply to anyone I encounter looking for a fenestration solution 🙏🏼
G JG J
15:13 13 Feb 23
We are looking to replace some old UPVC patios doors with aluminium ones. The ATS website is a great source of advice in an area where clear information is sorely lacking. Having used the website, I then followed this up with a number of specific questions relating to our search, and Nick came back very quickly with clear, detailed and very useful advice.I have been very impressed with both the website and with Nick's advice. My only regret is that I didn't come across ATS before replacing various windows in 2021 - I'm sure it would have saved me a lot of grief and money! Thanks again Nick.
Azza McCabeAzza McCabe
17:47 01 Feb 23
So impressed with this company.Responded to my query quickly andgave valuable advice. Nick was extremely helpful and we were able to move forward with our project.
Adri LoloçiAdri Loloçi
11:21 08 Jan 23
Nick was super fast to respond and provided some great recommendations. I would recommend this website to anyone looking to find bifold or sliding aluminium doors.
Stephen HoustonStephen Houston
16:16 03 Jan 23
Looking for aluminium crittall style internal door and external patio French doors. Noted good reviews and thought would ask for advice. Comprehensive reply with excellent independent advice and lists of fitters who could provide products and installation. Great service.
Inga GeachInga Geach
08:25 21 Dec 22
Nick from Aluminium Trade Supply has been extremely helpful with navigating the jungle that is aluminium glazing for our upcoming extension project. His advice was prompt, detailed and always impartial. Very grateful for your input, thanks Nick!
Amanda BurtonAmanda Burton
10:54 16 Dec 22
Brilliant website and an excellent service. Nick provided not only detailed advice and supplier contacts, but highlighted the considerations of various products so I could make an informed choice. Our Sunvista minimal sliders were fitted this week and I couldn't be happier, stunning. Thanks once again for your advice and recommendations, invaluable!
Keith BarnesKeith Barnes
17:18 10 Dec 22
Very helpful advice given to my question, including the name of 3 different companies that i could try for the product being enquired about. Many thanks
Munim ChowdhuryMunim Chowdhury
11:45 13 Sep 22
Nick has been very helpful on signposting me to a number of partner organisations for steel/aluminium doors.
SUSAN wallaceSUSAN wallace
17:26 31 Aug 22
My experience with this firm was exceptionally good and this is notalways the case as a female, dipping a toe into technical waters.I was spoken too with courtesy and at a level that helped me consolidate what was needed .On top of that I was given a list of companies and places where I could obtain the type of product I needed.I could not thank them enough and would certainly go there again and reccommend others do too.
Paul SalterPaul Salter
22:39 22 Aug 22
Contacting Aluminium Trade Supply is like contacting the Oracle direct. Advice is always comprehensive and balanced. On multiple occasions they have provided me with options that fully meet our objectives. Many thanks.
Nick McCormackNick McCormack
20:25 14 Aug 22
Really helpful and useful came back to me on a Sunday with some invaluable information. Highly recommended.
ray addisonray addison
13:14 14 Aug 22
received a prompt reply to my query,and helpful information from ATS
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