Benefits of Aluminium Clad Timber Windows for Modern Homes

Modern aluminium clad timber windows have a timber core for insulation and an aluminium shell for protection, creating a premium window system ideal for contemporary living. Here are some of the key benefits that make them stand out in modern homes:

Natural Wood Interior with Modern Exterior: Aluminium clad timber windows combine a warm, natural wood interior with a sleek, modern aluminium exterior. The wood can be stained or painted to match your décor, while the aluminium provides a contemporary, low maintenance finish. Customisable dual colours for both the interior and exterior allow you to complement your home’s style perfectly.

Low Maintenance and Long Lasting: The aluminium shell acts as a shield against the elements, including rain, UV rays, and pests, eliminating the need for regular repainting. A simple wash with soapy water is all that’s required to keep the windows looking like new.

Energy Efficiency: Aluminium clad timber windows are designed to offer superior thermal performance. The timber frame naturally provides excellent insulation, significantly reducing heat transfer compared to metal only frames. The aluminium cladding also accommodates high performance glazing, including triple glazing, which enhances thermal performance. As a result, these windows not only meet but often exceed current energy efficiency standards, helping to maintain a comfortable indoor temperature and reduce heating costs.

Read about our innovative Idealcore technology.

Strength and Stability: The aluminium exterior not only provides an aesthetically pleasing finish but also adds significant strength and durability to the window frame. Aluminium is a strong, rigid material that resists warping, bending, or swelling, ensuring smooth operation and effective sealing over time.

Idealcombi designs feature engineered joints and, in some cases, thermal breaks that ensure the frame remains stable, airtight, and energy efficient throughout all seasons.

Design Flexibility: Aluminium clad timber windows offer a wide range of design options to suit both contemporary and traditional homes. The aluminium exterior can be extruded into various profiles, from ultra-slim modern frames to classic casement styles, enabling a customised look for any home.

Idealcombi alu-clad timber windows are available in virtually any colour, including over 200 RAL shades, the aluminium finish can match modern or heritage aesthetics. The timber interior is available in a choice of species, including pine and oak, and can be finished naturally or painted to create a warm and inviting feel inside your home.

Sustainability: Wood is a renewable resource and acts as a carbon sink, storing carbon dioxide as the tree grows. The superior durability of aluminium clad timber windows reduces the need for frequent replacements, cutting down on material waste. Their high energy efficiency also helps to lower your home’s energy consumption and carbon footprint. Furthermore, the aluminium used is 100% recyclable, ensuring that at the end of the window’s life cycle, the material can be repurposed into new products.

Idealcombi is committed to sustainability, using FSC® certified timber sourced from responsibly managed forests.

Maintenance: Timber windows require regular upkeep, while aluminium clad windows need minimal maintenance due to the protective aluminium shell.
Durability: Timber windows last around 30 years with care, but aluminium clad windows last 50+ years due to added protection from the elements.
Energy Efficiency: Both types offer good insulation, but aluminium clad windows are optimised for better long-term energy efficiency, especially with modern glazing.
Aesthetics: Timber windows offer a classic look, while aluminium clad windows provide a sleek, modern finish but can mimic traditional styles.
Cost: Timber windows are cheaper initially but require more maintenance. Aluminium clad windows are more expensive upfront but save money long-term due to less upkeep and greater durability.

If you prefer a traditional aesthetic and are comfortable with regular maintenance, timber windows are a great option. However, if you want a low maintenance solution with superior durability, energy efficiency, and long lasting performance, aluminium clad timber windows are the better choice. Many homeowners find the convenience and longevity of alu clad windows to be well worth the higher initial investment.

Insulating Timber Core: The timber core provides excellent insulation, slowing heat transfer between indoors and outdoors. Timber insulates 800 times better than aluminium, helping retain warmth in winter and block heat in summer, while the aluminium cladding doesn’t compromise this thermal barrier.
Advanced Glazing: Paired with high performance glazing, such as triple glazing with low E coatings and argon gas fill, these windows achieve very low U-values (as low as 0.8 W/m²K), which is significantly better than older double glazed windows. This results in better heat retention and reduced drafts.
Airtightness and Stability: The rigid aluminium exterior ensures tight seals, preventing cold air infiltration and reducing drafts. Many designs meet Passive House standards for air leakage, contributing to better efficiency and lower heating costs.
Condensation Control: The insulating wood frame helps keep interior surfaces warmer, reducing condensation and improving comfort. This also helps prevent moisturerelated issues like mould and paint damage, contributing to a healthier indoor environment.

Aluminium clad timber windows combine the warmth of natural wood with the durability of aluminium. The timber core provides excellent insulation, keeping your home warm in winter and cool in summer. The protective aluminium exterior requires minimal maintenance, while the advanced glazing options ensure improved energy efficiency. With a long lifespan, these windows are an energy efficient solution that offers great performance and aesthetics.

Idealcombi windows are a sustainable, long lasting solution that fits both modern and traditional homes, making them a smart investment for energy conscious homeowners.

Do aluminium clad timber windows require a lot of maintenance?

Aluminium clad timber windows are low maintenance. The aluminium exterior eliminates the need for regular repainting, unlike traditional timber frames. Occasional cleaning with soapy water is recommended.

How long do aluminium clad timber windows last?

These windows have a long lifespan, often lasting 40-60 years or more, thanks to the protective aluminium cladding. They resist rot and weather damage, offering a durable and reliable solution for your home.

Are aluminium clad timber windows more expensive than other types?

While aluminium clad windows may have a higher upfront cost than other window types, they offer long-term savings due to their low maintenance and high energy efficiency. They also add value to your home.

Are aluminium clad timber windows suitable for older or traditional homes?

Yes, aluminium clad windows are suitable for traditional homes. They can be designed to match the look of classic timber windows, while offering modern performance and energy efficiency.

We offer are alu clad casement windows designed with external profiles that mimic the look of putty glazed timber frames, complete with flush joints and classic detailing.

Benefits of Aluminium Clad Timber Windows for Modern Homes

Introduction