New windows & doors - aluminium vs upvc vs timber?

dmorgan81

I'm currently about to start a new build house project (first time after a few renovations), and am really struggling with budgets.

One big cost is the windows and bi-fold doors - the Architects really want me to get snazzy aluminium ones by a company called Velfac - they look great, but it's looking like around £20k (zero VAT rated as it's a new build).

On the other hand UPVC ones are looking to be more like £8-9k, and I can still get them in a nice slate colour. I have since found a company called Rehau that seem to do pretty nice ones.

Anyone know whether the extra spend will be worth it? Will they look that much better? Will it add to the value of the finished house?

I haven't looked at timber but was thinking to stay away due to more maintenance being needed with painting etc., but am happy to look if anyone thinks they'll be worthwhile.

Any help is much appreciated

Gordon_Hose

It's subjective, some will like it, others won't. Go with what your budget will allow.

Stevie_Palimo

Painted aluminium will not dis-colour like the older ones used to and they looked terrible after a few years, PVC as far as I am concerned is a good product although this needs to be changed after a period of time depending on the actual quality of the windows and doors.


If it were me doing this Today I think the additional expense will be better off in the long term due to the aluminium ones having a longer life as opposed to PVC.


I would not even bother with wooden ones due to the upkeep required on them.

Doozergirl

The design of some houses will really call for aluminium and the house will shine as a custom build.

It's your budget though! How long are you staying? What's the overall budget? Thise are the things that will be the influencers.

dmorgan81

Thanks all. I really do want the Aluminium if I can manage to squeeze it in! Overall budget is £120k so it's a big chunk of it.

I'll probably be there for a good few years (knowing me I'll get itchy feet and want another project after that!) - the estate agents have said that the typical buyer in the area won't be that bothered and the extra money won't be worth it... but on the other hand the whole house is going to be quite a contemporary designy one, so I think it'll appeal to that type of person who will probably care about the windows!

I know they're much better, slimmer frames, no maintenance etc., but just seeing if it's worth stripping out other luxuries or even going to the bank to beg for more to get the posh Alu windows