In the present scenario, windows play an important role in your home or office decor. They not only enhance the aesthetic appeal but also provide a barrier against the weather, protecting you and your property from the elements.
Choosing the right window can also add value to your property and reduce energy consumption. Windows come in various shapes, sizes, and forms, but selecting the right framing material is crucial and shouldn’t be taken lightly.
However, selecting the right material for shop fronts can be a tedious task, but there are several options available, including aluminium, wood, and UPVC. While each material has its own advantages and disadvantages, in this response, we will focus on UPVC and compare it to aluminium and wood to determine if it is a better option for shop fronts.
About UPVC
UPVC stands for unplasticised polyvinyl chloride, which is a type of plastic that is commonly used in construction for a variety of applications. UPVC is known for its durability, low maintenance requirements, and resistance to corrosion and fire.
It is commonly used for windows, doors, pipes, and other building materials. UPVC is also lightweight, energy-efficient, and can be easily recycled, making it an environmentally friendly option.
Advantages of UPVC for Shop Fronts
- Durable and long-lasting, with a lifespan of up to 40 years
- Minimal keep-up needs, making it a cost-effective option
- Outstanding insulation properties, which can help in diminishing energy costs
- Customisable design options, including different colours and finishes
- Lightweight and easy to install, which can save time and money during installation
- It provides good sound insulation, creating a quieter indoor environment
- Resistant to fading, which helps maintain its appearance over time
- Environmentally friendly and easily recyclable, making it a sustainable option
- Offers good value for money, providing a long-lasting and reliable solution for shop fronts.
Aluminium
Aluminum is an incredibly versatile metal, and it’s everywhere. Even if you don’t think about aluminium often, it plays a massive role in our everyday lives. From the construction of buildings to the power wires that keep the electricity running, aluminium materials are often used for their lightness and strength.
And things like aeroplanes and automobiles benefit from aluminium’s excellent resistance to oxidation and corrosion. That’s why it’s such a vital element in modern technology and engineering.
Advantages of Aluminum for Shop Fronts
- Durable and strong, with good resistance to corrosion and rust
- Lightweight and easy to install, which can save time and money during installation
- Low maintenance requirements, making it a cost-effective solution
- Good security features, with the ability to incorporate strong locks and security glazing
- Customisable design options, including different colours and finishes
- Long-lasting, with a lifespan of up to 30 years or more
- Good weather resistance, making it suitable for use in harsh climates
- Environmentally friendly and easily recyclable, making it a sustainable option
- Provides good thermal insulation, which can help reduce energy costs.
Wood
Wood is a classic material that has been used for construction for centuries. It provides natural insulation and can be easily customised to fit your design needs. It offers a traditional and classic look that can enhance the aesthetic appeal of a commercial building.
It is also highly versatile and can be used in an array of applications, from flooring to furniture, doors, windows, and more. Wood also adds a classic and natural look to any space, making it a popular choice for shop fronts.
Advantages of Wood for Shop Fronts
- Customisable design options, including different stains and finishes
- Good insulation properties, providing good thermal and acoustic insulation
- Can be easily repaired or replaced, allowing for easy maintenance and repairs
- Sustainable and environmentally friendly, as wood is a renewable resource and easily recyclable
- Offers natural beauty and warmth, enhancing the overall look and feel of a building
- Can be made to fit any size or shape, allowing for customisation and flexibility in design
- Provides good strength and durability, making it suitable for use in hustle-bustle areas
- Has a long lifespan when properly maintained, with some wooden shop fronts lasting for decades.
Consider all the options
Based on the comparison of UPVC, aluminium, and wood, it can be concluded that UPVC is a suitable material for shop fronts due to its durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance requirements. However, the final decision will depend on the desired preferences of the shop owner.
At Altus Shop fronts & Shutter Repair, we understand the importance of finding the suitable materials for your shop front. We offer a wide variety of solutions that can be tailored to meet your specific needs, ensuring that you get the best possible solution for your business. We provide a personalised choice for windows to ensure that you have the ideal window for your construction project. If you want to reach us, please feel free to contact us!