Aluminium window lifespan is one of the main reasons South Africans choose aluminium over timber and steel. The frame itself does not rot, warp or rust the way timber and steel can, so on a well-kept window the frame usually outlasts the moving parts. This guide explains what affects aluminium window lifespan, which parts wear first, the simple care that adds years, and when to repair rather than replace.
Contents
What decides aluminium window lifespan
Three things matter most for aluminium window lifespan:
- The finish. Powder coating protects the aluminium from the weather. A scratched or chipped finish exposes bare metal, so treat damage early.
- The moving parts. Hinges, stays, rollers, handles and seals do the work every day, and they wear long before the frame does.
- The environment. Salt air at the coast, industrial dust inland and strong sun all shorten aluminium window lifespan if the window is never cleaned.
Frame versus hardware
Think of aluminium window lifespan as two parts with different lives. The frame and glass are the long-life structure. The hardware and seals are service parts that are designed to be replaced. That split is reflected in our warranty: 5 years on frames, glass and powder coat, and 2 years on hardware and seals.
Which parts wear first
- Seals and brush strips harden and shrink in the sun, letting in dust and draughts.
- Rollers on sliding windows and doors wear flat and start to drag. See aluminium sliding door rollers.
- Hinges and friction stays on top hung and side hung windows loosen, so the sash drops or will not stay open. See aluminium window hinges.
- Handles and catches wear at the contact points.
None of these means the window is finished. Replacing a worn part restores the window and extends aluminium window lifespan.
How to extend aluminium window lifespan
Clean the frames
Wash frames with mild soap and water and rinse with clean water. Avoid abrasive pads and harsh solvents, which damage the powder coat. Full steps are in how to clean aluminium windows.
Keep tracks and drainage clear
Sand and leaves in a sliding track wear the rollers and block the drainage slots, which can push water inside. Vacuum the tracks and clear the slots, especially before the rainy season. If water is already getting in, see aluminium windows leaking.
Check the moving parts
Open and close every window a few times a year. A sash that drags, drops or will not latch is telling you a part needs attention while it is still a small fix.
Rinse more often at the coast
Salt settles on frames and attracts moisture. In coastal areas, rinse the frames with fresh water more often than you would inland.
Aluminium window lifespan compared
| Frame | What shortens its life |
|---|---|
| Aluminium | Worn hardware and a damaged finish, both repairable |
| Timber | Rot, warping and regular repainting |
| Steel | Rust, especially where paint has failed |
For a full comparison, read aluminium vs wooden windows and aluminium vs steel windows. If you are replacing old steel frames, see replace steel windows with aluminium.
Repair or replace?
To protect aluminium window lifespan, repair when the frame is sound and the problem is a part: a roller, hinge, seal or handle. Replace when the frame itself is bent, badly corroded or no longer fits the opening, or when you want a different window type, size or colour. A new window comes with 6.38 mm clear laminated safety glass as standard, which also helps with safety and noise. See laminated glass noise reduction.
Coetz™ supplies new aluminium windows only. We do not install or repair windows, so your builder or installer fits them. We deliver across South Africa, or you can collect free from our Laser Park workshop. Replacement glazing must meet SANS 10400-N, published by the South African Bureau of Standards.
Aluminium window lifespan: frequently asked questions
How long do aluminium windows last?
The frame usually outlasts the moving parts. With cleaning and the odd replacement hinge, roller or seal, aluminium windows give many years of service.
What wears out first on an aluminium window?
Seals, rollers, hinges and handles. They are service parts and can be replaced without replacing the window.
Do aluminium windows rust?
Aluminium does not rust the way steel does. A damaged finish should still be treated early.
What warranty do Coetz™ windows carry?
5 years on frames, glass and powder coat, and 2 years on hardware and seals.
How do I make aluminium windows last longer?
Clean the frames, keep tracks and drainage clear, check the moving parts and rinse more often at the coast.
Coetz™, Unit 2, 84 Ridge Road, Laser Park, Johannesburg. Call 010 412 0062, WhatsApp 076 613 4418 or use our contact page.
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