In this blog post, we look into the trends that are poised to dominate the scene in 2024, based on our consumer research. 

The rise of art deco-style properties: steel-look aluminium windows 

To kick things off, it’s worth noting that the popularity of the heritage style is on the rise. Embracing the charm of the past while incorporating modern elements is a trend that’s gaining momentum for homes across the country. Statistics indicate a noticeable uptick in the preference for heritage-inspired aesthetics in modern homes.  

For the perfect blend of modern performance and classic style: MOD Series Heritage Aluminium Windows are the answer. These windows not only pay homage to classic designs but also bring with them outstanding levels of energy efficiency. From enhanced durability to improved efficiency, these windows seamlessly blend tradition with innovation, keeping the heat in and the cold out. 

Embracing open spaces: corner sliding doors 

Looking to the spring and summer months, the idea of maximising your outside space comes to the front of your mind.  Our aluminium corner sliding doors are an incredible way to enjoy your garden from the inside. Imagine a panoramic view of your outdoor haven, coupled with the sleek, ultra-modern finish these doors provide. 

These doors not only connect your indoor and outdoor spaces seamlessly but also offer practical benefits like improved ventilation and an abundance of natural light, turning previously dark corners into light-filled focal points.  

Elevate your home with walls of glass 

Another notable trend emerging in 2024 is the increasing popularity of large ‘walls’ of glass. For a modern touch that welcomes ample natural light, consider the aïr 180XLS Aluminium Lift and Slide Door. Beyond its ability to be manufactured up to an impressive 3m x 3.6m, it offers high levels of thermal performance soon to be a necessity, thanks to its resilient design and ultra-low U-values. 

Performance and aesthetics 

In a world where energy efficiency is a growing concern and the need for efficiency is being reflected in how homeowners buy, having products that align with the government’s climate mission is a great way to meet the demands of the future, right now. The aïr 900 Aluminium Bi-fold Door is a stellar example of this fusion of efficiency and first-rate aesthetics, offering excellent energy performance, with U-values from as low as 1.0 W/m²K. 

The perfect system for a larger bifold door height, this door not only excels in energy efficiency but also delivers on style and performance. It’s a harmonious blend of form and function, ensuring your home remains comfortable, stylish, and efficient, year-round. 

As you think about the changes to your home in the coming year, don’t just think about how you want an on-trend home for 2024, but how you can make your space timeless, whilst maintaining energy efficiency. 

When you’re ready to transform your home with stunning, trendy systems for 2024, visit our website to explore a wide range of options and get expert advice from a leading specialist. 

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If you’re planning a renovation, new-build project or extension, glazing is a very important factor to consider. The right glazing solution can mean the difference between a light, bright and airy room and a dark, dim one. That’s why aluminium bifold doors should be considered when you’re thinking about glazing.  

Despite their countless benefits, there is one question that is often at the top of everyone’s list when considering glazing options for a project – how much do aluminium bifold doors cost? Read more to find out! 

Deciding what you want 

Before looking into quotes for aluminium bifold doors, you should really take the time to think about what you want. There are so many options to choose from, so narrowing down your choices will give you a clearer picture of costings.  

One of the greatest things that come with aluminium bifold doors is that they can be designed to suit any property and space, while blending into the design of properties thanks to the countless RAL colours and special finishes available to co-ordinate with any existing or desired aesthetic. However, the configuration of aluminium bifold doors is the main factor that will impact the overall costs of aluminium bifold doors – e.g., the more panels you have, the more the cost will go up.  

Figuring out what type of glass you want to use in your aluminium bifold doors can also impact the overall cost. You will need to choose between double and triple glazing, and the main difference between the two is energy and cost efficiency. Deciding between the two will ultimately come down to your budget and whether or not greater thermal efficiency is a priority.  

How much do aluminium bifold doors cost? 

Once you’ve decided on your glass and configuration, you can start looking at quotes and get a realistic view of how much they are going to be. As a rough guide, you should expect to spend around £1,500 – £2,000 for aluminium bifold doors with 2-3 panels, and anywhere to £5,000 – £6,000 for up to 7-8 panels.  

Aluminium bifold doors tend to be on the higher end of the scale when it comes to costings, but due to their superior durability and resilient nature, they tend to be a better investment than PVCu or timber bifold doors in the long run. Any glazing product can last for many years when treated with the right care, but aluminium bifold doors tend to last the longest – around 20 years – with minimal maintenance.  

So, do you think aluminium bifold doors are in your budget?  

If they are, you can find out more information about aluminium bifold doors by checking out aïr range now to find your perfect new doors today. You can also download a free brochure, or find your nearest aïr Accredited Retailer to visit a showroom and see our Aluminium Bifold Doors up close and see for sure if they’re the right choice for your project.  

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Now you’ve had your beautiful new aluminium windows fitted, how can you keep them looking their best? Luckily, aluminium window frames are notoriously easy to clean and maintain, so you can enjoy more time looking through them and less time cleaning them! 

Here are our top-tips on what to clean aluminium window frames with and how to keep your window glass sparkling! 

Tip 1: Remove loose dirt and debris using a soft bristled brush, vacuum cleaner or hosepipe 

Before you start the scrub, it’s a good idea to get rid of any loose dust, dirt or cobwebs to help speed up the cleaning process. You can use a vacuum cleaner, soft duster or brush to do this inside. If you’re using a brush, always make sure it has soft bristles to avoid scratching the glass or frame.  

For the outside, you can use a hosepipe to rinse them down first. 

Pay close attention to the corners where dust and dirt can build up, especially if you live near a busy road. 

Tip 2: Warm soapy water 

There’s no need to spend lots of money on specialist cleaning products to clean your window frames with, as warm soapy water will be more than adequate for cleaning your window frames. 

Use a clean bucket and a soft sponge or microfibre cloth to rub down the window frames, inside and out. Never use harsh or abrasive tools, as these can potentially damage the powder coating on your aluminium window frames. 

Tip 3: Top down 

Always start from the top and work your way down when cleaning your windows, to avoid any dirty dripping down your freshly cleaned windows! 

Tip 4: Rinse 

After using the warm, soapy water to clean your windows, give them a good rinse with clean water to remove all residue and avoid soapy streaks or marks. Use a hosepipe for the exterior of your aluminium windows. 

Tip 5: Leave them high and dry! 

Drying your windows thoroughly will remove any remaining watermarks on your windows and prevent any moisture build-up – use a soft or microfibre cloth to avoid any damage to your frames. 

Tip 6: Streak-free glass cleaning 

You can find lots of window cleaning tips online and in home magazines to help keep your glass streak-free and sparkling!  

If you’re struggling to get rid of glass streaks after washing and rinsing, you can try a glass spray and then buffing the glass with a microfibre cloth.  

For an even more professional finish, take a tip from window cleaning professionals and use a squeegee to remove streaks. If you use a squeegee, always use it in an ‘S’ shaped motion, starting at the top of the glass and working your way down. Don’t forget to wipe the excess off the bottom of the window frame using a soft cloth! 

Tip 7: Clean when it’s cloudy 

Direct sunlight can dry your cleaning products quicker than you have time to finish, which can lead to unwanted residue build-up and extra streaks, so try to clean your windows on cloudier days – and enjoy the sunshine in the garden instead! 

Tip 8: Regular cleaning = even easier cleaning  

We would recommend cleaning your windows every few months to prevent any tough build-up of dirt. If you live on a busy road, near a railway line or by the coast, it’s worth giving them a quick wipe down in between more thorough cleans too. 

aïrcoat technology 

Remember, all aïr aluminium windows are available with our special textured, dirt-resistant and scratch-resistant paint finish, to help keep your frames cleaner for longer! If you’re doing a big clean, click here for our top tips on cleaning and maintaining aluminium doors. 

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If you’re planning a new-build project, home improvement or renovation, glazing should be one of the first considerations during your planning process. The right glazing can mean the difference between a light, bright and airy living space and a very dark one. Why waste money on additional lighting when you can use natural light to keep your home bright during the day? 

Frame material choice is also a big consideration and here, we’ve compiled a list of frequently asked questions about aluminium windows vs timber windows. 

Aluminium Windows Vs. Timber Windows – FAQs 

Are aluminium windows cheaper than timber windows? 

When you are looking at price comparison for home improvement products, you should always consider the long term cost of the product. For example, you will probably find that uPVC windows are cheaper than timber and aluminium windows, but they will have a shorter lifespan and are unlikely to offer the same performance benefits, sizes options and colour choices. 

Aluminium windows tend to be cheaper and more cost-effective than timber windows. This is mainly due to the manufacturing processes involved. aïr aluminium windows are made using a combination of high-tech machinery for accuracy and consistency from our qualified fabrication team for a superior finish. Timber windows tend to use more traditional, labour-intensive manufacturing techniques. 

Are aluminium windows easier to maintain than timber windows? 

Yes! Timber windows are notoriously high-maintenance. They usually require regular sanding, re-painting and sealing to protect the timber from moisture and rot. They are also more likely to need repairs or replacement parts over time, so long-term they are likely to cost more than aluminium windows. 

Aluminium is a highly durable material and requires very little maintenance. The strong material and paint coating is resistant to cracking, warping and fading, even in direct sunlight. All they need is a simple cleaning routine with a soft cloth and warm soapy water to keep them looking tip-top for years to come. 

Are aluminium windows more energy efficient than timber windows? 

If you’re concerned about the cost of windows, bear in mind the potential long term savings you could make on your energy bills with the right window material. Whilst both aluminium and timber windows are able to meet the required energy efficiency standards, aluminium window systems tend to have the superior performance. 

The profile that is used to make the aluminium window frames features multiple chambers to increase thermal efficiency and thermal break technology to prevent cold air from the outside transmitting to the inside. It literally ‘breaks’ the thermal conductivity process. 

Timber is a naturally warm material, but doesn’t feature internal chambers or thermal break technology, so may require additional measures to achieve similar levels of energy efficiency – meaning they will cost more. 

Do aluminium windows last longer than timber windows? 

Aluminium windows have a lifespan of around 40 years, with minimal maintenance and their resistance to the elements ensures that they will maintain high performance and look great for years to come. Aluminium also offers a clean, slimline modern window frame, futureproofing the aesthetics of your property. 

Timber windows offer a more traditional look and can have a similar lifespan to aluminium doors, but only if they are regularly maintained by homeowners. Without regular maintenance, frames may be susceptible to water damage, damp and rot. 

Are aluminium windows more secure than timber windows? 

Where security is concerned, you should always look for the PAS 24 security accreditation, which is almost always available for aluminium windows, but not always on timber windows. This is because aluminium windows use an aluminium ‘system’ which has been tested by a third party for performance, whereas timber windows use a much more traditional bespoke manufacturing process for frames, which cannot always be tested for security in the same way. 

For additional security, aïr aluminium windows are available with a Secured by Design upgrade – this is the ‘official police security initiative that works to improve the security of buildings’. 

Where can I buy my new aluminium windows? 

You can purchase your cost-effective aluminium windows from any of our aïr Accredited Retailers. They will be able to help you plan the glazing for your property and provide you with a detailed quote for your initial investment. They can also offer further information on the long-term cost-effectiveness of aluminium windows vs timber windows. 

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It’s a question we hear a lot from homeowners: how are aluminium doors better than uPVC? There are so many benefits to choosing aluminium over uPVC – superior strength, more colour and finish options and impressive thermal performance values. 

Benefits of Aluminium Doors 

Strength & durability 

A key feature of aluminium door frames is their inherent strength and durability. Aluminium is super strong and will not expand and contract in the heat, which is a common issue with large uPVC frames – especially if they are in dark colours which absorb more heat from the sun. Aluminium resists this potential warping, whatever the weather. 

Larger sizes 

Another benefit of the strength of aluminium is that it can be used to make much larger windows and doors without adding any extra width to sightlines – so if you’re looking for large, wide-span bi-fold or lift & slide patio doors, aluminium is the best choice. 

aïr aluminium bi-fold door panels are available in sizes up to 1.2 metres wide by 3 metres high and our lift & slide doors are available up to 2.5 metres wide and 2.7 metres wide – perfect for create a stunning wall of glass in your home improvement or renovation. 

Low-maintenance 

Aluminium is highly resistant to the UK weather. Come rain or shine, aluminium door frames endure like no other. Our special aïrcoat technology ensures there’s no cracking or fading of frames, keeping your door looking newer for longer. 

There’s no need for repainting or sealing aluminium frames. The only maintenance that’s needed is a wipe down with warm, soapy water every now and again. You can find out more about how to clean aluminium door frames here. 

Sustainable & recyclable 

Aluminium door frames have a lifecycle of around 40 years, meaning they are the best long-term investment for your home, and when they do eventually have to be replaced, they can be easily recycled. 

Aluminium is 100% recyclable, and it does not lose any of its benefits during the recycling process, meaning it can be endlessly recycled without any loss of quality. This makes aluminium the sustainable choice for eco-conscious homeowners. 

Impressive design options 

Aluminium doors offer more design options than their uPVC counterparts too. The material strength means that aluminium windows and doors are available in much larger sizes, whilst maintaining slim sightlines to maximise the glass area. 

They also offer a much larger colour range than uPVC doors, as aluminium doors are available in any RAL colour, with a range of finish options including our unique textured, aïrcoat finish and even marine-grade paint, which is perfect for homes near the coast. 

Thermal performance 

Aluminium doors offer some of the lowest U-Values on the market – great news for eradicating draughts and reducing energy bills! Incorporating advanced thermal break technology, multi-chambered frames and our airtight seals, our lift & slide door options feature U-Values of just 0.95 W/m2K and are resistant to wind gusts up to 100mph. 

Complete aluminium glazing suite 

Another benefit of choosing aluminium is that you can have a complete, matching suite of glazing for your home – even if you need super wide-span doors. All aïr aluminium windows and doors have been engineered to suite together for a consistent look throughout your home. 

So, are aluminium doors better than uPVC? 

Yes! Stronger, with more design options, a longer lifespan and impressive thermal performance, aluminium doors are better than uPVC. But don’t just take our word for it…you can see the difference for yourself at one of our aïr Accredited Retailer showrooms or click here to Download a Brochure. 

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