Aluminum Alloy Windows and Doors vs uPVC Windows and Doors: Which is More Suitable for the Malaysian Climate?

When choosing doors and windows in Malaysia, aluminum alloy doors and windows and uPVC doors and windows are the two most commonly compared types. Both have advantages in terms of price, performance, and durability, but it’s not about ‘the more expensive the better’, it’s about which one is more suitable for the local climate and your living needs. This article will provide you with a clear comparison from a practical perspective.
1、 Comparison of Moisture Resistance and Durability (Key Factors in Malaysia)
Malaysia experiences high humidity and frequent rainfall throughout the year, which has a significant impact on the material of doors and windows.
Aluminum alloy doors and windows:
Not absorbent, not moldy
Strong corrosion resistance
Suitable for coastal areas or areas with heavy rainfall
UPVC doors and windows:
Waterproof by itself
May age under long-term high temperatures
High requirements for material quality
👉 Aluminum alloy has higher stability in humid environments.
2、 Comparison of insulation and energy-saving effects
In hot climates, insulation performance directly affects air conditioning electricity costs.
UPVC doors and windows:
Comes with thermal insulation properties
Good energy-saving performance
Aluminum alloy doors and windows:
Ordinary aluminum alloy has fast thermal conductivity
But broken bridge aluminum can greatly improve the insulation effect
👉 If the budget allows, broken bridge aluminum>uPVC>ordinary aluminum alloy.
3、 Appearance design and style adaptation
Aluminum alloy doors and windows:
Fine lines
Strong sense of modernity
Multiple color options available
UPVC doors and windows:
The frame is relatively thick
Style leans towards practicality
Less design choices
👉 Modern residences, apartments, and villas tend to lean towards aluminum alloy.
4、 Comparison of Maintenance and Service Life
aluminium alloy:
Clean and simple
resistant to deformation
Long service life
uPVC:
No need to paint
Long term sun exposure may cause embrittlement
Hardware needs regular inspection
👉 Long term use, aluminum alloy is more worry free.
5、 Price Range (Reference for Malaysia)
Actual prices vary depending on size, brand, and glass configuration
UPVC window: RM700-RM1500 per window
Aluminum alloy window: RM800-RM1800/leaf
Broken bridge aluminum window: starting from RM1500
👉 UPVC is initially cheap, but its long-term value needs to be considered.
6、 Which type of doors and windows are more suitable for you?
Choose aluminum alloy if you:
Living in damp or coastal areas
Pay attention to appearance and durability
Hope for long-term stable use
Choose uPVC if you:
Pay attention to thermal insulation
limited budget
The usage environment is not extreme