Aluminium Windows & Doors Singapore: Types, Costs and Maintenance
Aluminium Windows and Doors in Singapore: The Complete Guide
Walk through any HDB block, condominium or office building in Singapore and you will see aluminium everywhere. It has been the default window and door material for decades — and for good reason. But within the broad category of "aluminium windows" there is an enormous range in quality, performance and price.
This guide explains the systems available, what to specify, what things cost, and how to keep them performing for decades.
Why Aluminium Dominates in Singapore
- Corrosion resistance — naturally forms a protective oxide layer; performs well in humid, salty air.
- Lightweight — easier to handle and install, less structural load.
- Strength-to-weight ratio — allows slim profiles with good rigidity.
- Low maintenance — no painting or varnishing required.
- Powder coating — available in virtually any colour.
- Cost-effective — significantly cheaper than timber or high-end steel systems.
- Long lifespan — 20+ years with basic maintenance.
Window Types Compared
Sliding Windows
Panels slide horizontally on tracks. The most common window type in Singapore.
- Pros: Space-efficient, easy to operate, cost-effective, wide opening
- Cons: Only half the area opens; tracks collect dirt; poorer sealing than casement
- Best for: Bedrooms, living rooms, HDB flats
Casement Windows
Panels hinged on the side and open outward.
- Pros: Full opening for ventilation; excellent sealing when closed; better sound insulation
- Cons: Requires clearance outside; can be affected by strong wind
- Best for: Rooms needing maximum ventilation and noise control
Top-Hung Windows
Hinged at the top, opening outward from the bottom.
- Pros: Rain-resistant when open; good for high-rise; excellent for ventilation in wet weather
- Cons: Limited airflow compared to casement
- Best for: High-rise units, bathrooms, corridors
Bottom-Hung (Hopper) Windows
Hinged at the bottom, opening inward or outward at the top. Often used above doors or in combination with fixed panels.
Fixed Windows
Non-opening glass panels. Best thermal and acoustic performance, lowest cost, zero maintenance — but no ventilation.
Louvers
Horizontal glass or aluminium blades. Allow ventilation while blocking rain and direct sun. Common in older buildings and service areas.
| Type | Ventilation | Sealing | Space | Cost |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Sliding | 50% | Fair | Low | $$ |
| Casement | 100% | Excellent | Medium | $$ |
| Top-Hung | Moderate | Very Good | Low | $$ |
| Fixed | None | Excellent | None | $ |
| Louver | High | Fair | None | $$ |
Door Types Compared
Sliding Aluminium Doors
The standard for balconies and patios. Smooth, space-efficient and available in large panel sizes.
Folding (Bi-Fold) Doors
Panels fold and stack, creating a wide opening. Popular for F&B, showrooms and landed homes opening onto gardens.
Swing Doors
Traditional hinged doors. Simple, robust, good sealing.
Glass-Integrated Aluminium Doors
Aluminium frames with large glass panels — often the preferred combination for balcony access where both strength and visibility matter.
Aluminium Grades and Profiles
Not all aluminium is the same. Key specifications:
- Alloy 6063 T5 — the standard extrusion alloy for architectural windows and doors in Singapore. Good strength and finish quality.
- Profile wall thickness — thicker walls mean more rigidity and better screw retention. Cheap profiles flex and distort.
- Thermal break — an insulating barrier between inner and outer profiles. Significantly improves thermal and acoustic performance.
- Powder coating thickness — typically 60–80 microns for external use. Thin coatings chalk and fade quickly.
Glass Options for Aluminium Frames
| Glass | Thickness | Benefits | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Clear tempered | 6 mm | Safety, clarity, low cost | General windows |
| Laminated | 6.38 mm | Safety, some acoustic | Noise-exposed units |
| Double glazed (DGU) | 6+12+6 | Thermal and acoustic | Condos, offices |
| Low-E DGU | 6+12+6 Low-E | Heat rejection | West-facing units |
| Acoustic laminated DGU | 8+16+8 | Maximum noise reduction | Expressway, MRT-facing |
| Frosted | 6 mm | Privacy | Bathrooms |
Aluminium Window and Door Costs in Singapore
| Item | Specification | Estimated Cost (SGD) |
|---|---|---|
| Sliding window | 2-panel, 6 mm glass, per sqm | $180 – $300 |
| Casement window | 6 mm glass, per sqm | $220 – $380 |
| Top-hung window | 6 mm glass, per sqm | $240 – $400 |
| Fixed window | 6 mm glass, per sqm | $140 – $240 |
| DGU window | 6+12+6, per sqm | $380 – $650 |
| Sliding door | 2-panel, 8 mm glass, per sqm | $280 – $480 |
| Folding door | Aluminium track, per sqm | $400 – $750 |
| Swing door | Aluminium frame + glass | $600 – $1,200 |
| Window repair (track/roller) | Per unit | $120 – $350 |
| Full window replacement | Per unit | $450 – $1,800 |
A typical 4-room HDB flat with 5 windows fully replaced in aluminium with 6 mm tempered glass commonly costs between $3,500 and $7,000.
Powder Coating Colours
Standard colours available:
- Matt black
- Charcoal grey / anthracite
- Bronze / dark brown
- White
- Silver / natural anodised
- Champagne / light bronze
- Custom RAL colours (with lead time and surcharge)
Installation Considerations
- Measure after plastering — finishes change dimensions.
- Check structural openings — damaged or out-of-square openings need rectification first.
- Use proper anchors — expansion bolts or approved frame anchors, not just foam.
- Seal correctly — backer rod plus silicone for weather tightness.
- Check drainage — frames must have weep holes so water can escape.
- Level and plumb — misaligned frames cause tracks to bind and seals to fail.
- Test operation — every panel should slide or swing smoothly before handover.
Common Problems and Repairs
| Problem | Cause | Repair |
|---|---|---|
| Window hard to slide | Worn rollers, dirty track | Clean track; replace rollers |
| Water entering during rain | Blocked weep holes, failed silicone | Clear drains; re-silicone |
| Draft or noise through closed window | Hardened gaskets, worn brush seals | Replace gaskets and seals |
| Condensation inside DGU | Seal failure | Replace the unit |
| Frame discoloured or chalky | UV degradation of poor coating | Re-coat or replace |
| White powdery corrosion | Aluminium oxidation, often coastal | Clean and apply protective coating |
| Handle or lock broken | Wear | Replace hardware |
Maintenance
- Clean tracks monthly with a vacuum and soft brush.
- Lubricate rollers and hinges with silicone spray, not oil.
- Clear weep holes at the base of frames every few months.
- Wash frames with mild soap and water; avoid abrasive cleaners.
- Inspect silicone seals annually and replace when cracked.
- Check fixings for tightness every year.
Frequently Asked Questions
How long do aluminium windows last in Singapore?
20–30 years with reasonable maintenance. Hardware such as rollers and handles typically needs replacement every 8–12 years.
Are aluminium windows good for noise reduction?
Standard single-glazed aluminium is poor for noise. With thermally broken profiles and acoustic laminated double glazing, performance improves dramatically.
Can I replace just the glass in an aluminium frame?
Yes. If the frame and hardware are sound, replacing only the glass is often the most economical option.
Is aluminium better than uPVC for Singapore?
Aluminium is generally preferred because it handles UV and heat better without discolouring or warping. uPVC performs slightly better acoustically but can yellow over time.
How much does aluminium window replacement cost?
Between roughly $180 and $650 per sqm depending on window type, glass specification and profile quality.
Aluminium & Glass Works by RH Glass Solution
We supply and install aluminium windows, doors, frames and U-channels across Singapore, combined with tempered, laminated and double glazed glass.
- Phone / WhatsApp: +65 8616 1337
- Email: rhglasssolution@gmail.com
- Website: www.rhglasssolution.sg
- Hours: 24 hours, 7 days