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Aluminum WindowsWith aluminum as the most readily available framing material, aluminum windows have long been favored for their overall strength, durability, reparability, and configurability. As a strong, low-maintenance and inexpensive option to wood-framed windows, aluminum windows are found in projects ranging from residential homes to light commercial applications today. Advantages of Using Aluminum Windows Superior Structural Strength: Aluminum has a high strength-to-weight ratio, and thus easily forms into any shape. Aluminum windows, unlike vinyl or wood windows, are far more resistant to normal wear and tear, denting and weathering. Glass Deflection Standard: The glass deflection standard (L/175) is specified to assure that commercial windows are able to withstand large wind loads without significant deflection and potential damage. Whereas nonmetal framing materials have difficulty meeting this safety design standard, aluminum window products easily fulfill the requirement. Flexible Appearance: Aluminum windows offer great aesthetic appeal. Aluminum windows can be painted virtually any color, including historic window colors, and the color stays on over a long period of time. The Most Successful Recycled Material: With the ability to reconvert 45 percent to 50 percent of its substance into other usable products, aluminum is the most successfully recycled material available. No other material, whether metal or nonmetal, comes close. Using only 5,000 btus of energy to convert scrap aluminum to usable material, vinyl, wood and steel require three times more energy to reprocess. Maintenance: Aluminum windows are practically maintenance-free. Even when scratched, they can be easily refinished to their original look. Disadvantages to Using Aluminum Windows Despite its many advantages, there are also some disadvantages to using aluminum windows. Energy Resistance Factor: Both wood and vinyl windows enjoy a slightly better energy resistance factor than aluminum windows. However, this difference can be easily minimized with high-performance glazing systems. The "Sweat" Problem: Aluminum windows tend to produce "sweat" in the winter, leading to mold growth. The hidden mold growth can be hazardous to those allergic to mold. Further, if the mold produced spreads to the wood structure of the house, it can rot. The "sweat" problem, while serious, can be effectively eliminated with thermal breaks. Aluminum Windows: a Clear Choice Aluminum windows have many advantages over wood or vinyl windows. Although not without disadvantages, the drawbacks of aluminum windows can be seriously minimized, if not eliminated, with just a few simple steps. The aluminum window is a great option for those seeking durable, strong, and inexpensive windows. Related Links: |
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