Many ask us what the best aluminum frames are. Most believe that the good name of the aluminum series (Europa, Alumil, Etem) alone guarantees the correct result. This is not entirely true, because extrusion companies (e.g., Europa, Alumil, Etem) offer their products in bars (they do not manufacture windows).
The quality of construction, the construction materials, the mechanisms, and the quality of the frame installation depend on the frame manufacturing company (e.g., Fenestral). An aluminum manufacturer might use a well-known and expensive profile (e.g., Europa, Alumil, Etem) and not construct it correctly. Conversely, a manufacturer from less known aluminum frame extrusion companies, with passion, can produce better aluminum frames.
What factors determine the quality of aluminum frames
The three main factors that determine the quality of aluminum frames (the best aluminum frames) are the series – aluminum profile, the accessories chosen (mechanisms, gaskets, rollers, etc.), and correct construction-installation (the time dedicated to construction and installation). Passion and cost play a significant role in the appearance of a frame. The company that produces the aluminum profiles (e.g., Europa, Alumil, Etem) and the series determine safety, thermal insulation, and aesthetics. The accessories contribute to the three previous parameters. For example, if proper locks are not installed in the frames, safety is reduced; if the correct gaskets are not used, thermal insulation weakens, etc.
Guide to the best aluminum frames – Frame technical specifications
To assess the performance of the frames you intend to purchase, it is advisable to look for their performance in terms of watertightness, sound insulation, air permeability, water tightness, etc. (the best aluminum frames). To better understand, see all the technical specifications of frames and what they mean. Attention!! For the above performances and measurements to be valid, the instructions of the extrusion companies (e.g., Europa) regarding the gaskets, accessories, and other parts of the frame, as stated in the technical specifications manual, must be strictly followed.
Frame replacement (see what you save in money and energy) is a beneficial investment that happens once and will stay with you forever. Therefore, take a little extra time in choosing your partner. For more information, see our buying tips to decide which are the best aluminum frames for your home.
Check the aluminum frames you received
See how you can verify if the specified accessories have been used in the aluminum frames you received before you pay for the frames – aluminum frame inspection. Request a technical inspection from the design company.
Comparison of aluminum frames – Which series are the best?
Many consumers try to compare aluminum frames and wonder which aluminum frame series are the best.
Each aluminum frame series (e.g., Europa EOS – 60, Alumil 9660) is designed to meet specific needs (e.g., high thermal insulation, sound insulation, cheap Europa aluminum frames, etc.). But which are the best Europa aluminum frames in terms of frame technical specifications? Below you will see a comparison of Europa aluminum frames in relation to their technical characteristics.
*The Eos -5500 Hybrid series is absent from the table of hinged aluminium frames, which has very high indicators for soundproof frames
Are all frames suitable for all situations, and which are the best?
Each series of energy-efficient frames (e.g., EOS – 60, Europa 5500) is designed and addresses specific needs. There are series of energy-efficient frames that are designed
- for mountainous areas and very high thermal insulation requirements (e.g., Eos – 90),
- series with sound insulation in mind (e.g., A-40 Si Hybrid)
- series that perfectly suit the urban environment (e.g., EOS – 60)
- series focused on aesthetics and large glass surfaces with less aluminum (e.g., Minimal Frame)
- series with curved profiles suitable for traditional frames that resemble old wooden frames (e.g., Europa 5500 hybrid)
- series with straight rectangular cross-sections and high thermal-sound insulation (e.g., EOS – 78)
so you should choose a frame that suits the needs of your property and not a very expensive frame whose advantages you will not be able to utilize relative to its price.
How to check the level of frame installation yourself
Many consumers face problematic or defective frames, even immediately after purchase. Doors and windows that do not open easily, or let in air and noise, sliding frames that do not glide easily. See how you can check the frame installation yourself.
Consumer responsibilities
During the search for who will manufacture the aluminum frames for our home, we go through the process of receiving quotes for aluminum frames. Frame quotes do not only state the cost, but also exactly what they offer for the cost they ask us to pay. With the same detail that we look at the technical specifications of a car when buying one, we should also look at the specifications of the frames we are about to buy. In many aluminum frame quotes, several characteristics (accessories, type of glazing, etc.) that affect the performance of a frame are artfully omitted, and if you eventually buy these frames, the manufacturer you chose bears no responsibility. See exactly what should be stated in aluminum frame quotes.
Proper work with passion and expertise is the most important factor
Proper work with passion and expertise is the most important factor that answers the question, what are the best aluminum frames. Proper work without rushing in construction, knowledge of the peculiarities of each series, and experience during installation.
An opening frame with chamfered glazing beads requires more time, effort, and expense for the final result to be perfect. The same applies to the appearance of the profiles, curved – straight, which exist in every aluminum series (e.g., Europa 5500). Therefore, it is advisable to visit the manufacturer’s showroom and ask to see exactly the frame that will be installed for you (the types of curved – straight profiles should also be listed in the quotes).
