Comparisons
Timber vs Aluminium Windows: Cost, Style & Performance
Timber and aluminium each win on different fronts — cost, maintenance, style and thermal performance. Here is how they compare for a Melbourne home.
When homeowners weigh up window frames, the choice usually comes down to timber versus aluminium. Both are excellent — they just suit different priorities, budgets and house styles. Here is the honest comparison.
Cost
Aluminium is generally more affordable upfront and has minimal ongoing cost — no repainting, no resealing. Timber costs more initially because of the material and craftsmanship, and it needs periodic repainting or re-staining to stay weather-tight, especially on exposed or coastal elevations.
Maintenance and lifespan
- Aluminium: very low maintenance, 30–50+ year lifespan, does not warp, rot or swell
- Timber: moderate-to-high maintenance, 20–40+ years if well maintained, can swell or rot if coatings are neglected
Energy efficiency
Timber is a natural insulator, so it performs well thermally when detailed correctly. Bare aluminium conducts heat, which historically was its weak point — but thermally broken aluminium inserts a non-conductive barrier in the frame that dramatically reduces heat transfer and condensation. With double glazing, thermally broken aluminium competes strongly with timber on performance while keeping slimmer sightlines.
Style
Timber owns the heritage conversation — Federation, Edwardian and period homes read as architecturally correct with timber joinery. Aluminium suits modern and architectural homes, with slim frames, large glass areas and a black or charcoal powder-coat finish that dominates new-build specifications in Melbourne right now.
What we recommend for Melbourne
For most Melbourne homes — renovations, new builds and replacements — custom aluminium hits the best balance of cost, durability, performance and style. Where a heritage overlay or period facade demands it, slim aluminium profiles in heritage colours can satisfy the street while still upgrading you to double glazing behind the scenes. We fabricate to measure, so you get the right configuration for your openings either way.
Ready to move?
Residential Aluminium Windows in Melbourne
Custom windows for Melbourne homes, renovations & new builds Custom fabricated locally — free measure and itemised quote.
Common questions
Frequently asked
Generally yes, both upfront and over their life once you account for timber's repainting and resealing. Aluminium is common in new builds and large openings for this reason.
They can. Slim double-hung and casement aluminium profiles in heritage colours keep the period look while adding modern sealing and double glazing. In heritage overlays, check requirements first — we can advise.
Standard aluminium conducts heat, but thermally broken aluminium solves this with an insulating barrier in the frame. Paired with double glazing it performs very well in Melbourne's climate.
Keep reading
Related guides
Comparisons
Aluminium vs uPVC Windows in Australia: Which Is Better?
uPVC insulates well and costs less; aluminium is slimmer, stronger and more design-flexible. Here is how the two stack up for Australian conditions.
Comparisons
Bifold vs Sliding Doors: Which Is Right for Your Home?
Bifolds open almost the whole wall; sliders give bigger uninterrupted glass and better sealing. Here is how to choose for your Melbourne opening.
Energy Efficiency
Is Double Glazing Worth It in Melbourne?
Melbourne's swing between cold winters and hot summers makes double glazing one of the highest-impact upgrades for comfort and energy bills. Here's when it pays off — and when it does not.
