Lifespan of Aluminium Windows and Doors:
When investing in new windows or doors, one of the most important questions homeowners and business owners ask is: How long will these aluminium windows and doors last? At Accend Aluminium and Glass (2AG), serving Roodepoort, Randburg and surrounding areas, we believe that aluminium windows and doors offer outstanding longevity—often far beyond what many expect. This blog explores what influences lifespan, what a realistic timeframe is, and how to get the most out of your investment.
What Determines the Lifespan of Aluminium Windows and Doors
Several factors contribute to how long aluminium windows and doors will perform well before needing major work or replacement:
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Material & Quality of Aluminium Profile: Not all aluminium is the same. The alloy, thickness of frames, presence of thermal breaks, and quality of hardware all affect durability.
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Finish & Coating: Powder-coating, anodizing, and other protective finishes guard against corrosion, fading, UV exposure, and wear. A high-quality coating can prevent issues for decades.
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Glazing Type: Double glazing, tempered or laminated glass, and proper sealants make a difference. Good glazing reduces stress, condensation, and helps maintain structure.
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Manufacturing & Installation Quality: Precise fabrication, correct installation, proper sealing, and ensuring water drainage are essential. Poor installation drastically reduces lifespan.
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Climate & Environmental Conditions: Factors like coastal air (salt), high UV radiation, harsh storms, temperature extremes, and pollution contribute to wear. Interiors sheltered from these are likely to last longer.
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Maintenance: Regular cleaning, lubricating moving parts (hinges, locks), checking and replacing seals, addressing minor corrosion, etc., all extend lifespan significantly.
Typical Lifespan: What Can You Expect?
Based on global research and local industry experience (including what we see at Accend Aluminium and Glass in Roodepoort and Randburg), here are realistic lifespan ranges:
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Aluminium windows and doors installed with good materials, professional installation, and maintained properly can last around 40 to 50+ years. Global manufacturers and suppliers often quote these ranges. Sherborne Windows, for example, states that aluminium windows “typically last 45 years or more” under good care. Sherborne Windows
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In more severe climates, or where maintenance is neglected, lifespan may drop to about 20-30 years. As Wideline points out, average lifespan is often around 20-25 years, especially where there is poor care or harsh environment. Wideline Windows & Doors
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For coastal zones or areas with extremely high humidity, UV, or salt exposure, you may see degradation sooner unless extra protective measures are in place (e.g. very good powder coat finishes, stainless or corrosion-resistant hardware, more frequent maintenance).
What Lifespan Can 2AG’s Clients in Roodepoort & Randburg Expect?
At Accend Aluminium and Glass, we manufacture and install high-quality aluminium window and door systems. Here are what our customers can realistically expect from their investment:
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If you select our premium frame profiles, double glazing or high-performance glass, proper sealants, and coatings, and ensure high-quality installation (which is standard in our practice), then 40 to 50 years is a reasonable expectation.
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For less heavy use, protected locations (e.g. shaded areas, not directly exposed to sun or salt), and consistent maintenance, lifespan may even exceed that.
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We provide a 1-year guarantee on workmanship, ensuring that from day one our installations are done correctly and defects in workmanship are addressed. Snupit
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We also use powder coatings, proper sealing, and durable hardware, all of which help guard against early deterioration.
How to Maximize the Lifespan of Your Aluminium Windows & Doors
To ensure your aluminium windows/doors last as long as possible, here’s what we recommend:
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Choose quality materials and finishes: Ask about thermal breaks, powder coating, and corrosion-resistant hardware.
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Install properly: Proper site assessment, accurate measurements, careful sealing, and drainage prevent moisture ingress and frame distortion.
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Regular maintenance: Clean frames with mild soapy water, lubricate moving components (locks, hinges), inspect seals annually, touch up coatings if needed.
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Address any issues early: Small corrosion, seal failure, or water leakage should be repaired swiftly to prevent larger problems.
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Environmental protection: If you are near the coast or in a high UV area, be extra cautious with finishes and more frequent checks.
Why Aluminium Is a Strong Investment
Aluminium windows and doors may have a higher upfront cost compared to some alternatives (like basic uPVC or untreated timber), but when you look at cost over time, aluminium generally proves more economical. Fewer replacements, less repainting or refinishing, and stable performance under harsh weather mean lower ongoing costs. Plus, materials are recyclable and strong, making aluminium a more sustainable choice overall.
Conclusion
Aluminium windows and doors, when done well, can offer decades of service—typically 40 to 50 years or more in many cases. At Accend Aluminium and Glass (2AG) in Roodepoort and Randburg, we build for that kind of lifespan through high quality materials, professional installation, and follow-up support. If you are considering upgrading or installing aluminium-glazed windows or doors, getting a supplier who cares about all aspects — from frame alloy to sealants to coatings — is key to making your investment last.
Further reading & references:
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Sherborne Windows: How Long Do Aluminium Windows Last? A Complete Lifespan Guide. Sherborne Windows
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Wideline Windows – How long do aluminium windows last? Wideline Windows