Smart Alternatives to Steel and Aluminum as Prices Rise

 Exploring Aluclad Wood, Fiberglass, and uPVC Windows and Doors

With the 25% tariffs on steel and aluminum now in effect, homeowners, builders, and architects are looking for more cost-effective alternatives for their windows and doors. These price increases resulting from the tariffs could significantly impact construction costs, prompting the search for more cost-effective, durable, and energy-efficient options. Aluclad wood, fiberglass, and uPVC windows and doors have emerged as ideal alternatives to steel and aluminum products, offering a range of benefits that make them attractive choices in today’s evolving market.

Aluclad Wood: The Best of Both Worlds

Aluclad wood is a composite material that combines the timeless beauty and natural insulation properties of wood with the durability and strength of a metal exterior. Typically, the outer layer is made of aluminum, while the core remains wood. However, because of the aluminum's protective coating, the wood inside is safeguarded from harsh weather, reducing the need for frequent maintenance.

Why Choose Aluclad Wood?

Aesthetic Appeal: Aluclad wood provides the classic charm and warmth of wood on the interior, creating a natural and inviting atmosphere. The aluminum exterior offers a sleek, modern look while protecting the wood from the elements.

Energy Efficiency: The natural insulating properties of wood combined with the weather resistance of aluminum make Aluclad windows and doors highly energy-efficient, keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter.

Low Maintenance: Unlike traditional wooden windows and doors, which require regular painting and sealing, the aluminum cladding protects the wood from the outside, significantly reducing maintenance efforts.

Check out Eurostar's Aluclad Solutions or visit our featured Aluclad Project: Rios Residence

Fiberglass: Durability Meets Efficiency

Fiberglass windows and doors have rapidly gained popularity due to their impressive durability and high-performance qualities. Made from a composite material, fiberglass windows and doors can withstand the harshest conditions without expanding, contracting, or warping, unlike wood or other materials.

Why Opt for Fiberglass?

Durability: Fiberglass is resistant to rot, warping, and swelling, making it a highly durable material that stands up to extreme weather conditions. This makes fiberglass windows and doors especially well-suited for climates with high humidity or fluctuating temperatures.

Energy Efficiency: Fiberglass has natural insulating properties that enhance a building's energy efficiency, helping maintain consistent indoor temperatures year-round and reducing heating and cooling costs.

Low Maintenance and Longevity: Fiberglass windows and doors require minimal upkeep and are built to last for decades. They do not require repainting like wood, nor are they prone to corrosion like steel or aluminum.

Eurostar Fiberglass Solutions start with EcoFibra 71. 

uPVC: Affordable, Strong, and Energy-Efficient

Unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC) windows and doors are another popular choice for those looking to replace steel and aluminum alternatives. Known for their strength, durability, and energy efficiency, uPVC has become a go-to option for homeowners and businesses alike.

Why Choose uPVC?

Cost-Effectiveness: uPVC windows and doors are often more affordable than their aluminum and steel counterparts, offering an immediate savings opportunity as the price of steel rises due to tariffs.

Energy Efficiency: uPVC has excellent insulation properties, helping to reduce energy consumption and enhance the comfort of indoor spaces by preventing drafts and heat loss.

Low Maintenance: uPVC is resistant to weathering, does not rust, and is easy to clean, requiring little upkeep compared to metal alternatives. It also retains its appearance and performance over time.

Environmental Benefits: uPVC is recyclable, which adds an eco-friendly element to its already impressive set of benefits. It offers a more sustainable option compared to aluminum, which has a higher environmental footprint.

With the rising costs of aluminum and steel, uPVC provides an affordable, durable, and energy-efficient alternative that won't break the bank or compromise on quality. Read more about Eurostar's uPVC product offering to learn more about the value of uPVC windows and doors for your next project. 

While steel and aluminum may have dominated the market in recent years, the rise of innovative materials like aluclad wood, fiberglass, and uPVC are revolutionizing the way we think about window and door construction. With prices expected to rise due to tariffs, these alternatives provide smart, sustainable, and cost-effective solutions that are well worth considering as the industry adapts to changing economic conditions.

Contact your Eurostar Representative for additional questions or email us at Tarrifquestions@ESFWindows.com.