If you’re in the market for new windows and patio doors, you’ll quickly see that there’s no shortage of options. If you’re still debating between hybrid or aluminium windows, here are a few important facts to remember.
Choosing the right windows is important for several reasons, such as:
While hybrid windows offer good savings up front, you’ll quickly find that aluminium windows offer the best option in the long haul.
A hybrid window is an attempt to balance price and durability. It consists of a PVC frame with a non-structural aluminium exterior coating. This coating provides all the aesthetic advantages of aluminium, such as a custom color, while minimizing the risk of fading.
However, be very careful! A hybrid window offers you the exterior aesthetics of aluminium, but not its durability and interior aesthetics. It also has fewer models to choose from. In addition, large windows or bay windows cannot be produced as they require more rigidity.
| Features | Aluminium windows | Hybrid windows |
|---|---|---|
 Durability | Over 60 years | Approximately 15 to 20 years |
 Energy performance | ENERGY STAR® certified | ENERGY STAR® certified |
 Size | Oversized options available: Up to 5 feet wide and 14 feet tall | Limited by structural standards: Aluminium is 23 times more rigid |
 Colour selection | Unlimited colour selection (interior and exterior) | Unlimited (exterior only) / always white interior |
 Interior frame | Aluminium – no plastic | Completely plastic |
 Exterior frame | Aluminium – no plastic | Plastic covered in aluminium |
 Function | Rigid operational frame: Will work well consistently | Operational frame: Large windows may expand and contract |
 Environmental concerns | Made in Montreal Quebec aluminium, locally extruded (Quebec City and Laval 100% recyclable, can be recycled indefinitely | PVC – non-recyclable |
 Price | Compare prices | Compare prices |
 Warranty | 100% for 30 years – parts and labour Transferable | Read warranties carefully for limitations. |
| 20 to 25 years Often non-transferable Coverage often decreases over time Labour not covered after second year | ||
| Learn more | Learn more |
Although the initial cost is greater, the main feature of an aluminium window is its elegance and strength. Being significantly stronger than PVC, you can get a slimmer frame allowing more room for the light to shine through. The fact that it is made of aluminium with a thermal barrier also provides excellent thermal and acoustic insulation. The exterior and interior finish can also be of different colors to better reflect the decor of your home. Finally, aluminium windows have a 60-year lifespan on average and are very easy to maintain.
Hybrid windows may seem like a good compromise to PVC windows. But be aware that you are only paying for an aluminium exterior coating which allows for a different color choice. This does not improve the strength, durability, or even the aesthetics of your windows, since you still won’t be able to get those coveted large, bright openings.
RBQ license number : 1231-7079-19