Let’s clear the air. Are aluminium frames too cold for winter?
You’ve probably heard it before. Aluminium frames are great in summer, but in winter? Too cold. Not energy efficient. Better to go with something else.
Well, that used to be true. But materials have come a long way, and modern aluminium window frames are built for all seasons, including chilly Perth mornings, damp winter days, and everything in between.
So if you’re planning a winter upgrade or building from scratch, let’s look at whether aluminium really holds up when temperatures drop.
What makes a window frame energy-efficient, anyway?
When we talk about insulation and heat retention, most people jump straight to glass. Single versus double glazing. But the frame matters too.
In winter, heat naturally escapes through the weakest point in your window system. If your frames conduct too much heat out, or let cold air creep in, you’re fighting a losing battle with your heater.
An energy-efficient window frame should:
-
Create a thermal barrier between inside and outside
-
Reduce condensation build-up
-
Stop cold air from sneaking in through gaps or weak joints
-
Work with double glazing, not against it
Yes, aluminium conducts heat. But not like it used to
You’re right. Aluminium is a metal, and metal conducts heat. But modern aluminium frames are designed with this in mind.
Many high-quality aluminium frames, like the ones we manufacture and install at Action Glass, use thermal break technology. That means a barrier is built into the frame to prevent heat transfer. Paired with double glazing, this makes aluminium surprisingly winter-friendly.
In fact, today’s aluminium windows can match or even outperform older timber or uPVC frames, especially in climates like Perth’s.
Perth winters. Not Arctic, but they hold a bite
Perth winters are mild by global standards, but that doesn’t mean energy efficiency isn’t important.
We still get cold snaps, early morning chills, and weeks of damp weather. If your windows are underperforming, you’ll feel it in your power bill, and every time a cold breeze sneaks in.
This is where aluminium window frames with thermal breaks really shine.
-
They hold warmth in without warping or swelling like timber
-
They stay sealed and strong, even in wet or humid conditions
-
They let the winter light in, without the cold that usually comes with it
So, are aluminium window frames a smart choice for winter?
Absolutely. If you choose the right ones.
Here’s what to look for:
-
Double glazing to keep your internal temperatures stable and reduce condensation
-
Thermal break frames to prevent heat loss through the metal
-
Professional installation, because even the best product only performs if it’s sealed properly
-
A reputable supplier using materials made for Perth conditions
At Action Glass, we manufacture and install aluminium windows that meet all of these needs. Our frames are durable, low-maintenance, and designed with thermal performance in mind. We’ve been doing this since 1969 and know what works in a Perth home.
Bonus benefits. It’s not just about staying warm
While thermal performance is important, aluminium frames also offer:
-
Noise reduction, especially when paired with double glazing
-
Bushfire resistance, making them safer in high-risk zones
-
Slim, modern styling that lets in more light without bulky frames
-
Sustainability, since aluminium has one of the highest recycling rates of any material
Final word. Don’t let old myths freeze your decision
If you’re still picturing cold, rattly aluminium windows, you’re thinking of the past.
Today’s aluminium window frames, when built and installed properly, are energy-efficient, stylish, and ready for Perth winters. Whether you’re renovating or building new, aluminium might just be the warmest decision you make.
Need a quote or advice?
Talk to the team at Action Glass. We’ll help you choose the right window solution to keep your home comfortable and efficient, no matter the season.
