If you’re in the process of building or renovating your dream home, the advantages of custom aluminum window and door options are virtually endless. Monumental Windows and Doors is an aluminum window supplier dedicated to upholding both the economic and environmental benefits that stem from utilizing such a sustainable resource. We like to believe that’s part of what helps us supply some of the best windows on the market.
A Little History: The Evolution of the Aluminum Window
Aluminum window materials and designs first emerged in the early 20th century, competing against the largely dominant wood window market. In the 1940s, aluminum windows quickly gained popularity among builders and homeowners. In comparison, aluminum window materials were more affordable, low-maintenance, durable, and offered a much simpler operation than their wood counterparts.
The most common early finish available was a mill finish, also known as a “non-finish”. Over time, this surface eventually darkened or discolored, which brought about the anodized finish—an extra thick coating made entirely of aluminum oxide—proving to be more resistant to corrosion. This also created a smoother surface for paint options. Custom paint options offer design flexibility that just isn’t available on other surfaces such as vinyl or wood.
While most of these characterizations still hold true today, now, more than ever, there is a growing need for sustainable and environmentally friendly windows and doors. Today, the majority of aluminum window manufacturers—Monumental Windows and Doors included—recycle 100 percent of their aluminum scrap, greatly reducing landfill waste.
What are Some Advantages of Aluminum Windows?
Depending on the geographical location of your home and the size of your budget, you might be considering wood, vinyl, or aluminum options. If you are in the market for a product that is environmentally friendly, high-performing and low maintenance, aluminum windows and doors might be your best bet.
Here are 4 reasons why you should choose aluminum for your next project.
1. Design Flexibility
Aluminum is available in many durable finishes and a host of different color options. It can also be anodized or powder-coated for extra protection from natural elements. As a result, you likely won’t ever need to repaint or reseal any of your aluminum windows and doors. Other traditional materials just don’t work as well with such durable coatings. Moreover, aluminum offers a more narrow profile for bigger views with less bulky material surrounding it.
2. Durability
Aluminum is the most preferred window and door material on the market today. It has the durability and weatherproof properties to withstand a wide range of harsh environmental conditions. Unlike other window materials, it will not swell, warp, crack, or split over time. It is tremendously stable during even the most extreme—both hot and cold—weather temperatures.
3. Energy Efficiency
High performance aluminum windows have the capabilities to exceed rigid energy efficiency standards. They are engineered with a dual glazing technique on (low-e) glass and a thermal break in the framing construction. All of these components combined create highly energy-efficient windows or doors that are built to last for years to come.
4. Sustainability
Manufacturing aluminum window and door products involves a very “green” process. Aluminum is an abundant resource that makes up about 8 percent of the earth’s crust. It is fairly simple to mine and, unlike wood products, it does not require the cutting down of forests or farm-raised trees in the manufacturing process. This material is also one of the most recycled products on our planet. Nearly 75 percent of all aluminum produced in the U.S. is still used today.
Monumental Windows & Doors works hard to maintain its environmental responsibility to create sustainable and reliable products. We do know that nothing lasts forever, but we’re certain that our environmentally friendly aluminum windows and doors can—and do—last much longer than their wood or vinyl counterparts.
Here in Palm Desert, California, Monumental Windows and Doors offers a wide range of products for luxury home buyers and builders. Find out more about your homebuilding options for the most energy efficient windows and sliding glass doors in our 2021 Brochure.
Photo credit: Jensen Door Systems and Munsch Homes.