- 25 September 2026|
- Windows|
- fenster_admin
Aluclad windows and aluminium windows look similar from afar, but the construction underneath is different. Aluclad windows use an engineered timber core clad in external aluminium, while full aluminium windows are aluminium throughout, with no timber in the frame. This difference shapes thermal performance, structural strength and the finished feel of a room.
If you have settled on aluminium as the right material for your new windows, this guide explains which system to specify: what separates Aluclad from full aluminium, and which suits a residential new build against an architect-led or more commercial-style project.
What is the difference between Aluclad and aluminium windows?
Aluclad windows use an engineered timber core, in redwood, hardwood, Accoya or European oak, wrapped in external aluminium cladding that takes on the weather protection role. The timber stays on show inside the room, so you get the warmth of timber alongside a low maintenance aluminium exterior.
Full aluminium windows are aluminium front to back. Our range is built on Reynaers and Schüco systems, including the Reynaers High Insulation ML8A, the Reynaers Ultra Slim SL38 and the Schüco AWS70Hi and AWS90.SI, so there is no timber anywhere in the frame.
In short:
- Aluclad windows combine a timber frame with external aluminium for a natural interior and minimal upkeep outside.
- Aluminium windows are engineered aluminium throughout, built for slim frames and structural strength.
Heat transfer and thermal breaks
Our Aluclad range already has a timber core acting as a natural insulator, then adds thermal breaks within the aluminium cladding to stop cold bridging between the exterior and interior frame. Combined with triple glazing, this lets our Aluclad Passivhaus windows achieve U-values as low as 0.79 W/m²K.
Full aluminium systems achieve their thermal performance entirely through engineering rather than material warmth. The Reynaers ML8A is available across three insulation levels up to Passivhaus certification, and the Schüco AWS90.SI is Passivhaus-certified in its own right, so a fully glazed aluminium frame can match Aluclad on energy performance when specified correctly.
The takeaway: each system can deliver excellent energy efficiency and lower energy bills over time. Aluclad gets there with help from its timber core, while aluminium systems rely on advanced thermal break technology to control heat transfer through a slimmer profile.
Structural strength and slim frames
Are aluminium windows stronger than Aluclad windows?
Full aluminium frames are marginally stronger section for section, since aluminium runs through the whole profile rather than around a timber core. In practice, each system delivers excellent structural integrity for domestic-scale window and door openings.
Where full aluminium windows pull ahead is sightlines. Because aluminium alone can carry more load in a smaller cross-section, our Reynaers Ultra Slim SL38 achieves noticeably slimmer frames than a timber-cored equivalent, for more glass and more natural light in the same opening. This is the main reason architects specify full aluminium on projects where large panes, floor-to-ceiling glazing or a run of matching windows and doors are part of the architectural design.
Aluclad windows still perform well here. Our EcoTherm Flush Casement and Europa Tilt and Turn ranges are built for a clean, contemporary look, just with a slightly deeper profile to accommodate the timber core.
Maintenance and durability
Both window types share the same headline benefit: minimal maintenance outside. The external aluminium on our Aluclad range and the powder coating available across our full aluminium systems resist rot, warping and corrosion, so neither needs repainting.
Full aluminium windows have a small edge here, simply because there is no organic material anywhere in the frame to consider. For homeowners who want complete peace of mind with no maintenance schedule at all, this is a genuine point in favour of an all-aluminium specification.
Aesthetic appeal: Natural warmth vs a consistent modern look
Aluclad windows suit homeowners who want a modern exterior with natural wood on show indoors. This is a popular choice for new build and extension projects where the interior design leans on natural materials.
Full aluminium windows give you the same clean, minimalistic aesthetic inside and out, which makes them the excellent choice for contemporary homes, architect-led new builds and any project where windows, doors and screens need to share identical sightlines and finish.
Which window type suits your project?
- Choose Aluclad windows for a residential new build or renovation where you want the warmth of timber inside, a low maintenance aluminium exterior and a wide choice of casement windows and finishes.
- Choose full aluminium windows for architect-led or more commercial-style projects, large glazed openings or anywhere slim frames and structural strength matter more than a timber interior.
Not sure which system is right for your project? Get in touch for technical advice, product information or to request a quote.
