uPVC vs Aluminium Frames
Compare uPVC and aluminium window frames for double glazing — thermal performance, durability, maintenance, appearance, cost, and which frame material suits different property types and climates.
Winner
Thermawood
Best overall option once average cost, coverage, and support reputation are weighed together.
Average Gap
$255
Difference in average pricing across overlapping glazing services.
Market Range
$400 - $19,000
The full low-to-high range across both providers.
Brisbane, QLD · Est. 2010
From
$500
Average
$4,305
Coverage
8 areas
Best for: Owners of heritage and period homes with timber windows who want to add double glazing without replacing frames or altering the original character of the property.
Review ThermawoodPerth, WA · Est. 2008
From
$400
Average
$4,050
Coverage
5 areas
Best for: Western Australian homeowners wanting competitive double glazing pricing from a local specialist with deep expertise in managing Perth's extreme heat and solar conditions.
Review APS Double GlazingSide-by-Side Price Comparison
Compare overlapping service types directly so the right price anchor is clear before you purchase.
| Service | Thermawood | APS Double Glazing | Difference |
|---|---|---|---|
| Timber Window Retrofit (per window) | $720 | N/A | - |
| Whole House Timber Retrofit (3-bed) | $12,500 | N/A | - |
| Bay Window Timber Retrofit | $2,200 | N/A | - |
| Timber Sliding Door Retrofit | $1,800 | N/A | - |
| Standard Window Retrofit (per window) | N/A | $600 | - |
| Whole House 3-bed | N/A | $13,500 | - |
| uPVC Frame Replacement (per window) | N/A | $1,220 | - |
| Acoustic Glazing Upgrade (per window) | N/A | $880 | - |
Pros & Cons
Thermawood
WinnerPros
- ✓Patented dry retrofit system specifically engineered for timber-framed windows — no need to remove the window frame from the wall, minimising dust, disruption, and restoration costs
- ✓Preserves the original timber character and appearance of heritage and period homes — the retrofit is virtually invisible from both inside and outside the property
- ✓National franchise network with specialised training ensures consistent quality — all Thermawood installers are certified in the patented system
Cons
- ✗System is designed primarily for timber frames — not suitable for aluminium-framed windows without additional frame modification work
- ✗Slightly higher per-window cost than basic retrofit due to the specialised system — expect to pay 10–20% more than a standard glass-only retrofit
APS Double Glazing
Pros
- ✓Deep expertise in managing Perth's extreme heat conditions — APS specialises in high-performance Low-E and tinted glass options that significantly reduce cooling costs in Western Australian homes
- ✓Competitive pricing for Western Australian customers — local manufacturing and procurement keeps costs lower than national brands that ship from the east coast
- ✓Comprehensive service range from basic retrofits through to full commercial glazing projects — a single provider can handle residential and commercial needs
Cons
- ✗Service area is limited to Western Australia — not available for projects in other states
- ✗Smaller company than national franchises — capacity may be limited during peak demand periods, leading to longer lead times
Bottom Line
Verdict
Thermawood's timber-to-timber retrofit approach ($500–$1,000/window) preserves original timber frames and adds double glazing without frame replacement — ideal for heritage homes. APS Double Glazing offers both uPVC and aluminium frame replacement options ($400–$850/window for retrofit, $850–$1,700 for full frame replacement). uPVC frames deliver the best thermal performance (thermally broken by design, U-values as low as 1.0 W/m²K), require minimal maintenance, and cost 20–30% less than equivalent aluminium frames. Aluminium frames are slimmer, stronger, and better suited to very large openings and modern architectural styles, but standard aluminium conducts heat readily — thermal break aluminium frames address this but at a premium cost. In hot climates like Perth, APS's expertise in heat-reflective glazing specifications delivers excellent results regardless of frame choice.
Choose Thermawood if you have timber-framed windows and want to add double glazing without replacing the frames — their patented system is the best option for preserving timber character. Choose APS Double Glazing with uPVC frames if you want the best thermal performance and lowest maintenance at a competitive price point. Choose APS with thermally broken aluminium if you need slim frame profiles for modern architectural designs or very large window openings. For most residential properties, uPVC frames offer the best balance of thermal performance, cost, and longevity.
Comparison FAQ
APS Double Glazing is cheaper on average in this comparison, but the right answer depends on your specific requirements including window type, glass specification, frame condition, and whether the existing frames can accept retrofit IGUs or require full replacement.
The glass specification (thickness, Low-E coating, gas fill, spacer bar type), frame quality and thermal break performance, warranty terms (IGU seal warranty and installation warranty), installer accreditations, and the scope of work included (removal, disposal, sealing, scaffolding) usually affect the total cost and value more than a blended average. Always confirm exactly what is included in the quote.
Choose Thermawood if you have timber-framed windows and want to add double glazing without replacing the frames — their patented system is the best option for preserving timber character. Choose APS Double Glazing with uPVC frames if you want the best thermal performance and lowest maintenance at a competitive price point. Choose APS with thermally broken aluminium if you need slim frame profiles for modern architectural designs or very large window openings. For most residential properties, uPVC frames offer the best balance of thermal performance, cost, and longevity.