Affordable (economical) frames

The price of an aluminum frame and how economical (cheap – affordable aluminum frames) it is, depends on many factors. At this point, it is necessary to clarify that frames in Greece, partly due to the sunshine (large – non-standard windows) and partly due to the diversity of their openings, are not a mass-produced consumer good. On the contrary, they could be described as handmade. This is also the reason that makes this particular product difficult to cost and at the same time is the main reason for the large price discrepancies between manufacturers. Let’s look, then, at the basic factors that determine the prices of aluminum frames below.

A. Manufacturing Time

50% of the cost of a frame is not the materials required for its production, but the operating expenses (wages – rents, etc.) of each producer – frame manufacturer. The more time spent on the manufacturing and installation of a frame, the higher the price of the frame. At this point, it should be noted that if a frame manufacturer is more careful in their work than another and dedicates more time to the production and installation of a frame, it implies that they will also be more expensive. Since more time is needed for production, there is also a higher cost, which translates into a more expensive final product.

B. Aluminum Profiles

The aluminum profiles used for the construction of frames are purchased from companies (Europa, Alumil, Etem) at different costs (per kilo) from each, which naturally affects the final price of the frame and how affordable aluminum frames we can buy.

C. The months – season we buy frames and better prices – affordable frames

What many consumers do not know is that frame constructions are a seasonal profession and that frame prices vary throughout the year. Most consumers choose to replace frames during the months of May – November (High season), when weather conditions are better. This is incorrect, because when replacing frames with new energy-efficient frames, the house remains open and without frames for at most 1-2 hours and never all day. During the months of December – April (Low season), frame manufacturers offer discounts and promotions resulting in better prices and more affordable frames. Additionally, due to the low volume of work, manufacturers can dedicate more time to your project, which also increases the quality of the frames.

D. Type of profiles – gaskets – accessories

Some manufacturers of aluminum and PVC frames use various methods to make their products more competitive (affordable frames). Thus, they significantly reduce the time spent on frame production and the cost of raw materials (removal of basic components) at the expense of quality. These methods can be used in all frame series (e.g., a balcony door with profiles from the Europa 5000 series can be constructed in different ways that naturally affect the final price of the product). Let’s look below at the most common ways to reduce prices.

• The use of closed sashes for the construction of opening frames instead of sashes with glazing beads. Closed sashes require less time to produce. Closed sashes are difficult to adjust, with the result that, in a short time, they “catch” on the frame casings, do not lock easily, and ultimately their gaskets do not seal properly.
  
• The use of unsuitable gaskets (seals), which do not meet the specifications of the manufacturing company, as well as the absence of corner gaskets.
• The use of accessories (mechanisms, connection corners, hinges) not specified by the system producer.
• The use of commercial roller shutters or louvered shutters and screens.
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• The use of lower-cost and questionable quality energy-efficient glazing from countries outside the European Union (Egypt, Israel, Bulgaria) (see more in energy-efficient glazing what to look out for)
• The use of external crews (and not permanent partners) for the installation of frames.
• The absence of materials (e.g., plastic thermal break spacers, entrance thresholds) specified by the system manufacturer

In the difficult times we live in Greece, all serious companies that manufacture aluminum and PVC frames are balancing on the edge of cost. That is why we must be particularly careful when we hear about very affordable frames and special offers. Certified manufacturers are obliged to adhere to the technical specifications of the manuals of the companies that designed the frames. Otherwise, they face criminal liability if they do not comply with what is stated in the offers. See in detail what should be stated in the aluminum frame offers to receive exactly what you request.

The purchase of aluminum frames is a costly investment that will stay with us forever, and in most cases, the saying “you get what you pay for” applies.