Common Problems With Aluminium Windows And Doors: Solutions & Insights

Since the introduction of the material aluminium in the 1800s, it has been effectively used in the architectural industry for a diverse range of purposes due to the standards of efficiency and performance the material has to offer. Whether you are building a home from scratch or renovating a space, aluminium proves to be the best option for windows, doors and other elements.

However, as we all know, nobody is perfect, everyone has their own set of flaws and so is aluminium. The aluminium doors and aluminium windows are the go-to choice for homeowners and builders in the realm of modern architecture with their ability to offer excellence and perfection in almost every aspect of their existence. However, the consumers need to understand that they also possess certain shortcomings and challenges that need to be considered before making the decision.

Common Problems With Aluminium Windows And Doors

Aluminium is quite a common material in the doors and windows industry with its lightweight and flexible nature along with other premium features that makes it a preferred choice. However aluminium has its fair share of problems that can range from minor annoyance to significant structural concerns. Some of the common problems associated with the components are as follows:

• Appearance Concerns: One considerable concern while you equip your home with aluminium doors or windows is the long-term performance of the material in terms of appearance. If you are residing in a place of heavy rainfall, it can cause unwavering and unpleasing stains on the outside layer of the door affecting the overall feel of the elements. Additionally, they can become significantly unsightly with the marks and lose shine.
• Corrosion And Oxidation: The material of aluminium is celebrated in the market for its corrosion-resistant properties even in diverse temperature conditions. But if the aluminium doors or windows are exposed to moisture, saltwater, pollutants or even varied temperatures for a long period, it can result in condensation buildup or issues like pitting and discolouration which can significantly impact the performance of the elements. This is quite rare but in complex cases, the corrosion can also have significant impacts on the structural integrity of the elements and result in an essential need for repair or replacement.
• Poor Insulation Over Time: The material aluminium can witness a significant deterioration in the soundproofing and thermal insulation properties. Aluminium is typically a conductive material which allows the heat to transfer through the window frame. This bad feature of the aluminium doors and aluminium windows promotes heat gain during summers and the loss of heat during winters making it comparatively expensive for the occupants to maintain a comfortable temperature indoors. Additionally, one of the most essential features you need in your doors and windows is the quality of noise insulation. To promote a peaceful and calming environment indoors, you need your doors and windows to not allow background noise to enter the spaces. This is where aluminium windows or doors can disappoint you as there can be significant noise penetration with these elements.
• Alignment And Installation Issues: When you are investing, you deserve nothing but the best. This is why we advise consumers to always consult professional aluminium fabricators who have the expertise to ensure proper installation and sealing and thus prevent future alignment issues.
  Ensure proper installations and fittings to prevent concerns related to gaps, improper alignment or sticking doors or windows to maximise the functionality and practicality of the elements for generations. One more concern that comes with improper sealing of aluminium doors or windows is the issue of air or water leaks.
• Security Concerns: The aluminium frames for doors and windows are quite strong and sturdy options but the levels of security can be compromised if the locks, fittings and other security mechanisms are of comparatively inferior quality. There can be quite high risks of break-ins or intruders if the hardware is installed or the mocks do not meet the technological and quality standards required.
• Limited Options For Customization: Aluminium is a flexible material that offers substantial levels of versatility and resilience to be moulded to an abundance of designs and shape options. However, if you compare the customization options of wood or UPVC with aluminium, then aluminium can lag. There can be considerable complexities or complications in the creation of intricate designs in the context of aluminium windows or aluminium doors.

Effective Solutions To Address The Problems Associated With Aluminium Doors And Windows

Aluminium doors and windows indeed have their specific set of issues and disadvantages that might affect the overall returns on investment on these products. But in a comparative analysis when these doors or windows are put against the other kinds, aluminium proves to be a better alternative. One of the key reasons for that is the benefit of easy solutions for the diverse issues of aluminium windows or doors.

Some of the common solutions are as follows:

• Regular Maintenance: If you have equipped your home with aluminium doors or windows, you should take good care of it. It’s not high maintenance but you should clean the frames regularly to remove the potential pollutants and the harmful elements that can cause corrosion. You can also opt for a protective polish or wax which can help the surfaces to maintain their shine and colour.
• Protective Coatings: One popular way to prevent and manage the concerns of oxidation, weathering or corrosion is the application of a protective layer of powder coating or anodizing the surface can prove to be helpful in the temperate climate of India.
• Glazing Options: There are numerous glazing options available in the market such as double glazing, triple glazing, acoustic or laminated glazing and many others which can promote the insulating capabilities of the elements. It can help with noise insulation, prevention of condensation and thermal insulation that helps to make the surroundings of any space comfortable for the occupants.
• Weatherstripping Or Caulking: You should go for high-quality weatherstripping or caulking materials to ensure the seal is airtight and there are no unnecessary gaps or leaks in the structures. This helps to ensure effective performance over a long period preventing the instances of drafts or even heat exchange.
• Security Concerns: Aluminium is a sturdy material which has made its place in the industry with the extent of safety it can offer with its strength. But yet, the key element is the fixtures. You should opt for toughened or laminated security glass, a multi-point locking mechanism or reinforced frames that might increase the overall aluminium door prices but the security and safety standards it can offer are unmatched.
• Hire A Professional Aluminium Fabricator: This is way more than a solution or a benefit, it is an essential need. The clients should prefer hiring or consulting a professional aluminium fabricator who can ensure proper installation and fitting thereby enhancing the functioning and reducing the risks of installation-related issues. It is a piece of additional advice to go for adjustable hinges or tracks to prevent instances of misalignment over time and ensure easy realignment when the client wishes.
• Customization Options: If you feel like you are not able to find your dream design among the customization options of aluminium doors or windows, then go for custom elements. There are numerous aluminium windows or door manufacturers who offer the advantage of flexibility in designs, colours or finishes thereby allowing you to find a design of your choice. Additionally, the idea of modular systems is also gaining popularity in the present times which can adapt to the diverse architectural needs of the consumers. This can affect the overall aluminium doors or aluminium windows price but it is a value-for-money investment in the big picture.

Find Premium Aluminium Products With McCoy Mart

Considering the pros and cons of the different types of aluminium products, it can be quite complex for the consumers to make the right decision. There are a wide range of suppliers chasing you in the market when you consider buying a door or window and this is where your efforts matter. Consumers should analyse and check the quality, features and cost-effectiveness of every supplier and then choose the one that seems trustworthy. Quality is the main concern if you opt for a door that can offer an exceptional standard of quality, it will give you an exceptional standard of satisfaction.

McCoy Mart is a platform working as a trusted marketplace which is working to improve the quality of life of the people by promoting a sense of peace in their homes and spaces. We provide you access to a large number of trusted suppliers and manufacturers of diverse architectural products and services to ensure that your every need is perfectly fulfilled.

Read Also: Aluminium Window Types And Prices In India