Since their inceptions, aluminium and steel have changed the way the human race exists. These metals have helped form whole societies and massive projects; but which metal is better in what application?
Windows:
Aluminium
Windows with the properties of aluminium will last longer as they are non-corrosive. Steel may corrode quite quickly from rain and moisture.
- Strong
- Lightweight
- Durable
- Cost effective
- Non-corrosive
- Insulates
Steel
Windows made of steel will be strong, but heavy. The frame is likely to corrode after some time spent exposed to the elements.
- Stronger than aluminium
- Easy to weld
- Heavy
- Corrosive material
Doors
Aluminium
The advantage of aluminium doors is their lifespan, also due to its non-corrosive nature. The fact that it insulates heat with a long lifetime it is both more inexpensive and longer lasting that a steel application.
Steel
Due to its tendency to corrode, steel loses the battle of “aluminium vs steel” in the same way it does windows. It is more expensive and unlikely to last very long when exposed to harsh conditions and other elements.
Large Scale Building
Aluminium
The lightweight nature makes aluminium the better choice in high rise buildings,especially because it is such a strong material in comparison to its weight.
Steel
Even though steel is stronger than aluminium when placed on top of one another its weight may override its strength, making aluminium the better option.
Cookware
Aluminium
Aluminium is great for certain applications like quick sears and flash frying. However, aluminium reacts with certain acids so does not lend itself well to stewing or simmering.
- Lightweight
- Good heat conductor
- Inexpensive
- Reacts to certain acids which may change the flavour of your food
Steel
Stainless steel may be more expensive but it is an excellent heat conductor that retains its heat well. Steel doesn’t react with acids and so it lends itself well to all cooking techniques.
- Heavy
- Durable
- More expensive, but it does have a longer lifespan than aluminium cookware
Aluminium wins in most departments. With this knowledge you may feel it’s time to replace your windows and doors with aluminium.
