Are Aluminium Doors Cheaper Than Wood?

• Posted by Onitek Global Sdn Bhd Oct 15 Filed in Business #Aluminium door  #Aluminium folding door  #sliding door  70 views
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  Out of the many options that doors can take in our homes or offices, two of the most common alternatives that may come to anyone's mind are aluminium and wood. Both, of course, have their pros and cons. The most often asked question: "Are aluminium doors less expensive than wood?" Let's break this down by comparing the cost, durability, maintenance, and aesthetic qualities of aluminium doors, aluminium folding doors, and sliding doors against more traditional wooden doors. By the end of this piece, you'll be better equipped to make a decision on which of the above choices works out to be more budget-friendly for your circumstances.

  1. Knowledge about Aluminium Doors

  Aluminium doors are viewed popularly due to their sleek look and flexibility. Whether it is an aluminium folding door or a sliding door, both of them can give a welcome sleek touch to your space. Now, let us briefly learn some of the prime characteristics of aluminium doors:

  ●     Durability: They are highly resistant to rust and corrosion. Therefore, the areas can be left to be exposed to moist areas or harsh weather conditions.

  ●     Lightweight: Although it is incredibly strong, aluminium is lightweight, making it much less labour-intensive and simpler to install.

  ●     Versatile design: Aluminium doors can easily be adapted to a style; contemporary, industrial, or even anything in between.

  While these aspects of aluminium doors are attractive, are they cheaper than wood doors? Let's see that comparison in action.

  2. Cost of Aluminium Doors vs. Wood

  Talking about the costs, both upfront costs and long-term expenses should be taken into account. Here are the cost factors one needs to consider about each type of door:

  Aluminium Doors

  ●     Initial cost: Aluminium doors generally have a higher upfront cost than just simple wooden doors. However, their low maintenance requirement will let them compensate over time.

  ●     Maintenance cost: Aluminium does not require any maintenance. Additionally, you won’t need to repaint, polish, or stain aluminium doors like you often do with wooden doors.

  ●     Life expectancy: You can use aluminium doors for several decades with minimal maintenance costs and lower replacement costs.

  Wooden Doors

  ●     First cost: Wooden doors cost a lot of money, especially when they are made from high-quality timber. Lower-cost wood options exist but are not as durable.

  ●     Maintenance cost: Wood requires very frequent maintenance to avoid warping, termites, and tear caused by weather. This will cost a lot in the long run.

  ●     Life expectancy: Wooden doors may last for a very long time, especially if made from hardwood, but they often require more repairs than aluminium doors.

  In the long run, aluminium doors are less expensive than wooden doors because the cost of maintaining them is very minimal and durable.

  3. Aesthetic Comparison: Aluminium vs. Wood

  While cost is a consideration, aesthetics are truly just as important. Now let's make some aesthetic comparisons between the two materials:

  Aluminium Doors

  ●     Modern style: They have a light, minimalist appearance that is easy to fit into modern homes or offices.

  ●     Glass integration: Manufacturers use aluminium for sliding doors and aluminium folding doors, which feature large panes of glass that create a seamless transition from indoors to outdoors.

  Wooden Doors

  ●     Timeless beauty: Wood has traditional elegance, and one can include warmth and natural beauty in any room.

  ●     Customizable: Wood can be carved, painted, or stained to achieve various looks-ranging from traditional to rustic.

  Aesthetic preferences vary so If you prefer a sleek look, then aluminium sliding doors or folding doors would be perfect. If you prefer something more classically styled or looking in a more rustic direction, then wooden doors might be what comes to mind.

  4. Durability and Longevity

  Another basic point that must be taken into consideration while deciding between aluminium and wood is durability. Here's how each material stacks up:

  Aluminium

  ●     Weather resistance: Aluminium doors are very resistant to the elements and it doesn't matter whether it is an internal or external application.

  ●     Rust and corrosion resistance: Aluminium does not rust. It is suitable for use in wet areas or areas that receive much rain.

  ●     Warp resistance: Compared to wood, aluminium is not easily warped or swollen due to various temperatures or humidity.

  Wood

  ●     Strength in the natural form: Quality wooden doors are stable but tend to be more susceptible to damage as time passes.

  ●     Weather sensitivity: Wood will warp, crack, or swell because of its reaction to moisture or extreme temperature changes.

  ●     Susceptibility to infestation: Termites can easily attack wood unless the wood undergoes treatment.

  Aluminium doors remain strong and resist climatic conditions, making them a better long-term choice compared to wooden doors.

  5. Energy Efficiency and Insulation

  The other aspect is the energy efficiency of aluminium doors as opposed to wooden doors.

  Aluminium

  ●     Thermal efficiency: Aluminium is a heat conductor, hence the older aluminium doors do not provide the best form of insulation. However, most new aluminium doors contain a thermal break, which has made energy efficiency higher.

  ●     Noise reduction insulation: By comparison, aluminium does poorly with noise reduction compared to wood. Glass or an added insulating material enhances the final product.

  Wood

  ●     Good natural insulator: Wood provides natural insulation and retains more heat as well as noise when compared to aluminium.

  ●     Improved insulation: Wooden doors can offer higher thermal performance, especially in colder regions.

  In terms of energy efficiency, wooden doors have an advantage, although modern aluminium folding doors and sliding doors with thermal breaks are not far behind.

  6. Environmental Impact

  To decide to choose an eco-friendly door, you need to weigh the environmental implications of your decision:

  Aluminium

  ●     Eco-friendly: Aluminium is highly recyclable, and current manufacturing processes ensure minimal impact on the environment.

  ●     Energy-intensive production: Although aluminium is recyclable, producing it could be very energy-intensive, thus possessing a higher carbon footprint during the primary stage.

  Wood

  ●     Renewable resource: Wood can be classed as a renewable resource if taken from sustainable forestry. Yet clear felling and illegal logging lead to such undesirable environmental impacts.

  ●     Biodegradable: Wood is biodegradable at the end of its life cycle, whereas aluminium would remain in the landfill for thousands of years.

  Both wood and aluminium have pros and cons environmentally. Opt for sustainably sourced wood or recycled aluminium for an eco-friendlier option.

  7. Conclusion: Which is Cheaper?

  In simple terms, while aluminium doors have a slightly higher initial cost, they are more economical in the long run due to low maintenance, durability, and resistance to environmental factors, leading to significant savings. Wooden doors may suit those seeking a classic look or better insulation. Whether you choose an aluminium folding door, sliding door, or traditional wooden door, ensure it aligns with your budget and design preferences.