Windows do a lot more than let in light. They can change the whole look of your house. They play a big role in helping keep you warm in winter and cool in summer. And if you pick the wrong kind, they can be a real pain to look after.
Most people in New Zealand choose between two types: aluminium windows or timber windows. They each have their pros and cons, but one clearly ticks more boxes.
At Window Factory, we’ve been in the window game since 1976. So, we know a thing or two about what works for New Zealand homes. In this article, we share how aluminium and timber windows stack up when it comes to aesthetics, upkeep, costs, energy efficiency, and more!
Appearance and Style
Timber windows can look great in older homes. They’ve got that classic heritage feel that suits villas and bungalows. You can stain or paint them pretty much any colour, which is handy. But they do look their age after a while.
Aluminium windows give you clean lines and a sharper look than timber windows. They’re perfect for modern builds. And the colour options? Endless. You can go wild or stick with something subtle. They don’t fade fast either. They offer more design and layout freedom, too. For example, you can opt for slim frames, big panes… all that good stuff.
Durability and Maintenance
Timber doesn’t love water. It swells. It cracks. It rots. If you don’t keep up with sanding and repainting, it won’t last long. Especially near the coast or in damp parts of the country.
Aluminium is both durable and low maintenance. It doesn’t rust, doesn’t rot, and it handles wind and rain like a champ. You don’t need to repaint it either. A quick wipe down every so often to get rid of dust or salt is all it needs.
Energy Efficiency
Timber is naturally good at insulating, sure. But only if it’s well-sealed and looked after properly. Cracks and gaps let heat out. And over time, timber shifts, which means more drafts.
Today’s aluminium windows are available with thermal breaks. That’s a fancy way of saying they stop heat from escaping through the aluminium. Add double glazing and you’re sorted. You’ll stay warm in winter and cool in summer. And as an added bonus, you’ll save on power bills too.
Environmental Impact
Timber is renewable, but only if it comes from a good source. Not all of it does. Plus, you’ve got to chop down trees to get it in the first place. And if it rots after 10 or 15 years, it ends up in the bin.
Aluminium is fully recyclable. A lot of the aluminium used in windows today has already had a past life as something else. It lasts for decades. And when you’re done with it, it can be melted down and reused. So while the production side does use energy, it balances out over time.
Cost Considerations
Timber windows are pricey. Not just to buy, but to keep in good nick. You’ll be paying for paint, filler, sanding gear, and maybe a pro to do the hard bits of maintenance.
Aluminium windows cost less upfront in most cases, and you won’t need to fork out for upkeep. Once they’re in, they’re in. No messing around. Over the life of the house, they work out way cheaper than timber windows.
Best Applications for Each
If you’re doing up a villa and you want to keep the character, both options of timber and aluminium work well. Some people just like the look of timber, and that’s fine.
But for pretty much everything else, from new builds to renovations, apartments, and coastal homes, aluminium windows win hands down. Aluminium is strong, light, weathertight, and works for all kinds of layouts. It can handle high wind zones too, which matters if you’re near the coast or up a hill.
The Verdict
Let’s keep it simple. Timber has its place. It looks nice, it’s natural, and it fits certain styles.
But if you want something that lasts longer, needs less work, holds up better in wild NZ weather, and won’t drain your wallet, then go aluminium. It’s smarter, stronger, and way less hassle.
Aluminium Windows Auckland
So, it’s clear the aluminium windows are the better choice. Unless, of course, you’re restoring a heritage home or love sanding windows on your weekends.
At Window Factory, we’ve been building aluminium windows and doors for nearly 50 years. We make everything in-house at our Auckland factory, so we know exactly what’s going into each product. Whether you’re after sliding windows, awning windows, bifolds, or roof windows, we’ve got options for every kind of home. Everything’s made to measure, and we work with homeowners, builders, and architects across the country.
Our aluminium joinery is built to handle the wildest NZ weather, and our team is straight-up good to deal with. No fluff and jargon, just solid products and proper service. If you’re planning a build or thinking about swapping out old windows, have a chat with us. You can call us, send us a message, or get a free quote online. We’ll help you find the perfect fit.
