Heritage aluminium windows and doors are a stylish, high-performance way to enhance almost any property – from period homes to flats and new builds. Durable, ultra-slim, secure, energy efficient, and above all stylish – here is what you need to know.
Understanding Heritage Aluminium Windows and Doors
Heritage is intended to encompass the legacy of the past, enjoy it in the present time, and ensure it’s there for the future. Architecture and glazing are where, done right, heritage can be preserved.
Heritage aluminium windows and doors are designed to replicate the refined appearance of classic steel and traditional glazing, with all the low-maintenance, technology and price advantages of modern aluminium.
This glazing style suits a wide range of architectural periods. With their slim sightlines, timeless proportions, and traditional but authentic detailing, they are a popular choice for today’s home improvement projects. Heritage aluminium windows and doors are now suitable not just in period property renovations. They are frequently approved for listed buildings and conservation areas, (subject to consent), and new-build homes.
Such as the appeal of these windows, they’re ideal for early 20th Century homes, industrial conversions and homes with original metal windows. In aluminium you can now replace your old windows and doors in any material as well as first-generation double glazing from the 1970s and 1980s. Modern engineering and design ensures better insulation, longer lifespan, vastly improved security, functional and convenience options and less maintenance than the original materials.
Sustainable and Energy-Efficient Benefits
Only when you choose the right heritage aluminium windows and doors do you benefit from the best design, engineering, sustainability and long-term performance. These can be the last windows and doors you will buy.
- Advanced premium-grade aluminium frames with chambers and insulation reduce heat loss
- Double or triple-glazing provides insulation, acoustics, solar control and internal comfort
- Extensive and sophisticated weather sealing provides all-round protection
- Powder Coated Paint finish requires no repainting and looks great for years to come
And if the time does ever come to replace your windows and doors, aluminium is infinitely recyclable and retains its characteristics every time. If you’re concerned about energy bills and environmental impact, aluminium is a smart choice.
Top Design Options for Heritage Aluminium Windows
The design options for authentically-styled aluminium windows are distinctive and specific as they need to replicate the dimensions, styling and other essential features of the original windows they’re inspired by.
Classic slimline styles for traditional aesthetics
Original heritage metal windows and doors have well-known frame and glazing bar proportions, putty-style options, rolled steel profiles and other features.
These features recreate the distinctive look of steel windows and retain historical character.
Versatile designs for modern homes
You need the period style but you also need to meet modern standards and Building Regulations.
U-Values, trickle ventilation, fire-escape first-floor windows, and doors that open 180 degrees. Aluminium, glass, hardware, security and weather testing. All these features and more should come with your new heritage aluminium windows or doors.
curved and shaped windows for unique architectural appeal
Arched and shaped windows remain popular for period properties. Aluminium’s flexibility makes it ideal for replicating these bespoke shapes.
The right heritage product can often recreate the curved or angled heads, gables and other shapes of the original windows.
Custom Colour Choices to Match Your Property’s Style
Only aluminium gives you access to over 150 RAL colours. Choose heritage tones like black, white, or olive green. There is even an option for a different colour inside and out.
Modern coating technology now also provides gorgeous textured finishes that are tactile and unique in nature.
innovative hardware options for enhanced functionality
Traditional-look handles and stays are available in bronze, brass, or black finishes, alongside modern multipoint locks and concealed hinges.
Choose the right heritage aluminium windows and doors and this modern material can look virtually identical to the classic.
Design Options for Heritage Aluminium French Doors
Aluminium French doors in a heritage style bring the same period character to any door in your home. These are often used as patio doors, side or back doors, in kitchen extensions, garden rooms, or conservatories.
Choose the right heritage aluminium doors and they can look virtually identical to original steel doors.
- Single or double door options with slim profiles
- Matching sidelights and toplights to fill wider openings
- Equal sightlines and glass sizes for a balanced appearance
- Low thresholds for improved access
- Authentic heritage glazing bars in a choice of sizes for a steel-inspired look
- Whether opening inwards or outwards, French doors complement heritage windows and maintain a consistent design theme across the property.
Comparing Aluminium Heritage Windows with Other Materials
Aluminium vs. uPVC
While uPVC may be more affordable, it is simply too thick in sightline styling or refinement to achieve a heritage steel look. Neither does it have the strength of aluminium, nor can it go to larger widths and heights. Correctly designed heritage aluminium products offer a more authentic look and longer lifespan – and they’re often preferred for planning consent in conservation areas.
Aluminium vs. Timber
Like uPVC, aluminium provides a slimmer and more authentic alternative, but also a much lower-maintenance solution as well. While modern timber windows are built to last, you will need to consider future maintenance.
Aluminium vs. Steel
Steel is of course the genuine article, quality heritage aluminium windows and doors take inspiration from. Compared to genuine steel, aluminium is lighter, easier to get to the lowest U-Values and far less expensive – while still achieving a similar visual effect. Steel is also likely to take many more weeks to manufacture and install compared to aluminium.
Understanding the Thermal Performance of Aluminium
The thermal performance of aluminium today is so good, it can reach very low U-Values . Polyamide thermal breaks are what spearate the inner and outer frame, eliminating cold bridging.
Combined with high-performance glass, modern aluminium windows can meet or exceed Part L requirements. Our own Aluco Elite achieves U-values as low as 1.0 W/m²K triple glazed and 1.2Wm2K double glazed.
Installation Insights: What to Expect with Heritage Aluminium Windows
Heritage aluminium windows and doors are hand-finished products. Professional installation is key to performance and appearance. A reputable installer will:
- Carry out an accurate survey
- Advise on frame configuration and sightlines
- Ensure neat installation with correct fixings and sealing
- Maintain compliance with current building regulations
- Provide you with a quality manufacturer, product and installation guarantee
- Ensure your installation is registered with FENSA, CERTASS or other body.
Choosing the Right Installer
Choose an installer experienced with aluminium heritage systems. They should provide previous examples, understand different brands, and offer planning or Building Regulations advice where required.
Common Installation Challenges and How to Overcome Them
New build openings are, of course, easier for new window and door fitting. If you are replacing older windows, you may come across irregular openings, shapes, curves or gables. A professional installer will know how to measure and accommodate these openings and take expert templates when any shapes are involved. Accurate site measurement is essential.
Any planning constraints, such as listed buildings or conservation areas, a professional manufacturer should be able to provide you with the necessary drawings or product samples to present to your local Authority or for Conservation approval. Our products have often been specified by local authorities, contact us for more information and advice.
If you live in a city centre location, mid-terrace property or are concerned about access for the new windows and doors, talk to us. Our approved installers have a lot of expertise in handling our windows and doors professionally and can help you understand how they will work in your home.
Maintenance Tips for Longevity
Effective Cleaning Methods
Aluminium is ever so easy to keep clean. Use a non-abrasive cloth and mild soapy water. Avoid harsh chemicals that can damage the finish. Hinges and locks should be cleaned and lightly lubricated once or twice a year.
Regular Checks and Upkeep
Inspect gaskets, drainage holes, and seals annually. Remove any blockages and check for signs of wear. Most aluminium frames need only minimal attention to keep them in top condition.
Customisation Options for Heritage Aluminium Windows
The correctly designed, made and fitted heritage windows and doors should give you exactly what you need for your property project.
You should expect virtually every solution you need in your home, from accessibility to privacy, acoustics, enhanced security, comfort and styling.
- Frame styles: Square, arched, or curved
- Opening types: Fixed, side-hung, top-hung, sash
- Glazing bars: Horizontal, vertical, or grid
- Hardware: Period handles, stays, or modern concealed versions
- Colours: Full RAL range, dual colours, textured finishes
- Glazing Options: From Double to Triple Glazing
Costs and Investment: Is It Worth It?
Breaking Down the Costs
Heritage aluminium products sit at the higher end of the price scale compared to uPVC, but below the cost of steel or specialist timber frames. Cost will vary depending on size, configuration, colour, types of bars and the glass specification. Always get a personalised quotation.
Long-Term Value
Aluminium products are now one of the most popular materials, trusted for minimal maintenance, performance, appearance, and compliance with building regulations. In the heritage style, no other material provides the authenticity and quality. These are often the best long-term investment.
Final Thoughts: Elevating Your Home with Heritage Aluminium
The proper heritage aluminium windows and doors in aluminium must either come as a purpose-designed product that replicates period windows and doors correctly. Inferior versions are often little more than basic aluminium windows with bars on the glass.
At Aluco, we believe that true heritage aluminium windows and doors must be designed from the ground up to capture the authentic detailing of traditional steel or timber glazing. That’s why every Aluco product is bespoke-made for your home.
Why Choose Aluco
When you choose Aluco, you’re choosing beautifully engineered windows, doors, and French doors that deliver the timeless appeal of classic glazing with all the benefits of modern aluminium. Exceptional thermal performance, long-lasting durability, and a wide range of design options make our products ideal for both period renovations and sympathetic new builds. Contact us today.
Are heritage windows good quality?
Yes – but not all steel-look windows and doors are made equal. The best-are designed from the ground up to replicate traditional steel glazing. This means slim profiles, authentic glazing bars, period hardware, and correct proportions – not just standard aluminium frames with stick-on bars.
At Aluco, we design and manufacture true steel-look aluminium systems, built with care, precision, and high-specification components. They’re a world apart from mass-produced imitations or basic aluminium windows with added transoms.
What is the lifespan of heritage aluminium windows?
Correctly-made and properly installed, with routine cleaning and maintenance, you can expect a lifespan exceeding 20 years.
Are there specific regulations for installing heritage windows?
If your home is not a listed building or in a conservation area or with leasehold restrictions, you won’t usually require planning permission.
The advice is always to check with your local authority.
What styles of homes benefit from heritage aluminium windows?
If your home has original metal windows, heritage aluminium windows are ideal as a steel replacement. These also suit many other properties including early 1920’s homes and later, warehouse apartments and industrial conversions. Right now, heritage windows and doors are very popular in homes with new extensions and post-war homes.
