Windows and Doors: Why Choose Aluminum over Galvanized Metal
When looking for the perfect windows, there’s more to consider than just appearance. Aluminum windows have several advantages over galvanized windows.
When it comes to installing new windows and doors, you are faced with the difficult task of choosing between styles and materials. Aluminum windows, for example, are framed with aluminum, thus the name. Galvanized windows, on the other hand, come in galvanized frames. To fully understand the differences between aluminum and galvanized windows, you should closely look at material distinctness between the two, as well as understand the definition of the word “galvanized,” with respect to window construction in particular.
Galvanization
Galvanization is the process of coating a metal with zinc. The process of galvanization is mainly done to improve the corrosion resistance of the base metal. The term “galvanized,” when it appears on its own, usually refers to galvanized steel, yet technically speaking you can galvanize any type of metal, even aluminum. For that reason, there’s a possibility that a zinc coating represents the only difference between aluminum windows and galvanized windows. Nevertheless, a galvanized window is one with a frame made of galvanized steel moreover.
Strength
Galvanized steel possesses much greater tensile strength than aluminum, which means it can significantly bear more weight without breaking or bending. The strength of galvanized steel as a component serves its purpose in very large window frames or frames with uniquely big panes of glass. Aluminum, meanwhile, is perfect for standard residential windows for homes and apartments. Since aluminum is cheaper and perfectly exhibits adequate strength for residential application, aluminum is ideal for home installation. In addition, the tensile strength of stainless steel makes the material weigh significantly more than aluminum, which may make home installation more difficult and, of course, costlier.
Maintenance
Aluminum windows and doors require very little maintenance. With just water and a sponge, aluminum can be wiped clean in an instant. Additionally, aluminum comes in different colors, throwing out the need to paint and finish them. Galvanized steel, unfortunately, requires a great deal of upkeep. For example, you need to paint steel windows to guard them from exposure to the elements of nature and UV light. Furthermore, the properties of steel’s thermal conductivity cause water to form on the surface of steel windows. This can easily damage and strip away paint, requiring regular paintjobs. Galvanized windows may also have problems with moisture passing through the frame and into your home.
Things to Consider
Galvanized windows may have aluminum parts, and the other way around. Showroom of aluminum windows, for instance, display window screens from galvanized steel mesh, which an aluminum window frame may employ. Aluminum window installations may also make use of galvanized steel screws and bolts. Or, aluminum fasteners and other small parts may be used on galvanized steel framed windows. Regarding availability, you can easily find aluminum and plastic windows at your local showroom of aluminum windows. Steel windows, though, usually come from specialty manufacturers and require customization or special ordering most of the time, which may ultimately drive up costs.
