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Buying guide for aluminum doors

Decided on Buying Aluminum Doors? Features, Prices and How to Choose

Home / Articles posted byEduardo Savin

You’ve already made a great decision: choosing an aluminum door. Now comes what may be the most important part of the process. How do you know which option is right for your project? 

While aluminum is known for its durability, strength, and modern look, not all doors are created equal. There’s different types of profiles, finishes, security technologies, and price ranges that can significantly impact both functionality and appearance. 

In this guide, we’ll help you understand what features to consider, how each element affects the final price, and what to expect from the installation process. That way, you can make an informed decision and ensure your door meets every need. 

Buying an aluminum door may be easy, but in reality there are many special considerations to be made.

What Should You Evaluate Before Buying an Aluminum Door? 

Before purchasing or custom ordering your aluminum door, it’s important to understand the elements that determine its quality, functionality, and appearance. Here are the key factors to consider: 

  • Finish and color: Aluminum doors can be anodized, painted, or powder coated. This not only influences aesthetics but also affects resistance to weather, corrosion, and wear. Today, you’ll find finishes that mimic wood or offer ultra-modern matte tones. 
  • Opening system: Depending on your space and usage, you can choose from hinged, sliding, pivot, folding, or swing doors. Each system offers specific advantages in terms of ergonomics, design, and function. 
  • Compatibility with locks and access controls: Make sure the selected door supports multi-point locks, electronic systems, or access control via fingerprint, card, or app. This is essential if you’re aiming for a smarter, more secure solution. 

Factors That Affect the Price of an Aluminum Door 

The cost of an aluminum door can vary significantly depending on several technical and aesthetic factors. Here are the main elements that influence the final price: 

  • Project dimensions: A standard residential door is not the same as a large format entry for a commercial or corporate space. Size directly impacts the amount of material, hardware, and structural reinforcement required. 
  • Type of glass: If the door includes glass, the type of glass selected will greatly affect the price. Options range from tempered and laminated to bulletproof or solar-control glass. 
  • Included technology: Systems like Battle doors or thermally broken options add functional value but also increase the price due to their enhanced security or thermal insulation features. 
  • Custom hardware and finishes: Digital locks, designer handles, hidden hinges, or specialty finishes (like wood grain or anodized textures) can increase the cost, but also elevate the aesthetic and user experience. 
  • Professional installation: The price should also include installation service. Poor installation can undermine even the best quality door, so it’s best to choose providers that offer specialized technical support. 

How Much Does an Aluminum Door Cost? 

While the final price will depend on the specific details of your project, it’s helpful to have a general reference to understand what to expect when requesting a quote for an aluminum door. 

  • Standard residential doors: For regular sized hinged doors without glass or basic glazing, prices typically start around $250 USD. Cost can increase depending on the finish, lock type, and level of customization. 
  • Doors with laminated or tempered glass: When safety glass is added, prices may range from $400 to $1,400 USD, depending on the type of glass and the mounting system used. 
  • Commercial or high-traffic projects: Large format entries, automatic sliding doors, or reinforced systems may exceed $1,300 USD, especially if advanced technology or high-end finishes are required. 
  • Premium systems like Battle doors: For maximum protection against impacts, fires, or extreme weather, these doors are priced based on technical specifications and can vary widely—but they represent a long-term investment in comprehensive security. 

These prices may vary depending on your region, supplier, and project requirements, but they offer a solid starting point for informed decision making. Always request a detailed quote to get a clear understanding before moving forward with your next purchase. 

Price, technologies and even a complete system. All of these can become important when choosing a type of aluminum door

How to Choose the Ideal Aluminum Door for Your Project 

Choosing the right door isn’t just about budget or design, it also involves evaluating usage, environment, and the level of security required. Here are some key recommendations to help you make the best decision: 

  • Type of space: For a house, a well-finished hinged door may be enough. But for a commercial location, an automatic or reinforced sliding door might be more appropriate. And in office spaces, combining aluminum and glass is often preferred to maintain visibility, aesthetics, and a modern design. 
  • Security needs: If the property is in a high-risk or isolated area, it’s advisable to choose a highly secure door, like our Battle doors, with multi-point locking systems, laminated glass, and additional technologies like thermally broken systems. 
  • Architectural style: Aluminum offers a wide range of finishes. You might opt for a sleek, minimalist look for a corporate building or a wood-like finish for a residence. The right color and texture can make a big visual impact. 
  • Consult a specialist: Even if you have a clear idea of what you want, working with an experienced supplier can help you catch technical details you may overlook—such as compatibility with existing frames or recommendations on glass type. Every detail matters. 

Are Aluminum Doors a Smart Investment That Transforms Your Space? 

Choosing an aluminum door isn’t just about aesthetics or function. It should be seen as a strategic investment in security and long-term durability. Thanks to their versatility, modern design, and adaptability, aluminum doors have become one of the most complete solutions for residential, commercial, and institutional projects. 

Having a clear understanding of key features, price ranges, and installation types will help you make a more confident decision, aligned with the real needs of your space. 

Ready to take the next step? At PRL Glass, we manufacture custom aluminum doors with high-end finishes and integrated security technologies. Contact us and discover how to transform your entryway into a door that offers it all: design, protection, and presence. 

How Safe are aluminum doors for residential and Commerce

How Safe are Aluminum Doors? Proven Safety and Resistance

Home / Articles posted byEduardo Savin

In today’s world, security is no longer something to take lightly. The front door plays a crucial role, it’s the barrier between the inside and the outside. It’s not just the main point of entry, but also the first line of defense against break-ins, vandalism, natural disasters, or even accidents like fires.

A common concern among those considering aluminum doors is whether this lightweight, modern material can truly offer the protection needed against such threats. In fact, we’ve already explored how aluminum compares to materials like wood and uPVC.

In this article, we’ll take a closer look at how safe aluminum doors really are, how they compare to other materials, and what technologies exist to reinforce their strength in demanding environments.

👉 You may also be interested in reading: 7 Reasons For Choosing An Aluminum Door For Your Project 

An aluminum door, besides being resistant and with technologies, can imitate styles such as wood.

Are Aluminum Doors Safe?

Although aluminum is traditionally associated with lightweight construction and modern aesthetics, doors made from this material can actually be surprisingly strong and secure.

Architectural aluminum doors are not thin sheets like those used in cans or tabletop décor, they’re reinforced structures built with high-strength profiles, multi-point locking systems, and advanced anchoring mechanisms. They are widely used in commercial entrances, office buildings, residential complexes, and even in high-risk areas due to their combination of structural rigidity and impact resistance.

👉 You may also be interested in reading: How Thick Is an Aluminum Frame?

Additionally, aluminum doors integrate seamlessly with modern security technologies such as electronic locks and access control systems, making them an ideal choice for those seeking a balance of design and protection. Best of all, they can be paired with laminated high-resistance glass, creating a complete and secure entry solution.

 Types of Resistance Aluminum Can Offer

Aluminum doors are known not only for their sleek, modern design but also for their ability to withstand a wide range of threats, both environmental and human. Below are the key types of resistance this material provides:

  • Impact resistance: Thanks to their reinforced profiles and solid structure, aluminum doors offer excellent protection against forced entry or vandalism. When combined with multi-point locks and laminated glass, they become a highly secure barrier that is difficult to breach.
  • Extreme weather resistance: Unlike other materials, aluminum won’t warp in the heat or crack in the cold. Its structural stability makes it ideal for areas prone to hurricanes, storms, or sudden temperature shifts.
  • Fire resistance: Aluminum is non-combustible. In the event of a fire, an aluminum door won’t fuel the flames like a wood door might. This makes it a safer choice for regions where fire risk is a concern—such as wildfire-prone areas like California.
  • Corrosion resistance: With anodized or powder-coated finishes, aluminum can resist humidity and aging extremely well, even in coastal or industrial environments.

In fact, there are advanced systems like Battle Door that combine architectural-grade aluminum and glass to withstand human impact, severe weather conditions, and even fire, delivering a complete and reliable protection solution.

Technologies That Enhance Aluminum Door Security

One of the greatest advantages of aluminum doors is their ability to integrate with advanced security systems, without compromising design or functionality. Here are some of the most common technologies used to reinforce their protection:

  • Multi-point locking systems: Unlike traditional locks, these systems secure the door at multiple points along the frame, making forced entry significantly more difficult. They’re ideal for main entrances and high-traffic areas.
  • Reinforced profiles and thicker frames: Aluminum doors can be manufactured with thicker profiles or internal reinforcements, increasing their structural resistance to impacts or external pressure.
  • Electronic access control systems: Aluminum easily accommodates digital locks, biometric readers, RFID cards, and smart home integrations. This is especially useful in offices, corporate buildings, or modern residences.
  • Thermally Broken System: While originally designed to improve thermal insulation, this technology also adds structural rigidity to the door, making it more solid and resilient to external stress.
  • PRL Glass Battle Door: This system combines aluminum and high-security glass in a fully integrated architectural solution, engineered to withstand physical attacks, extreme weather, and even fire. It’s ideal for those seeking a high-security solution without sacrificing aesthetics.
Aluminum is a very versatile material in terms of cost. You can have a very functional one with an average budget

Recommended Use Cases

Aluminum doors stand out not only for their security but also for their versatility. Thanks to their design and structural strength, they can adapt to a wide range of spaces and needs. Here are some of the environments where their use is especially recommended:

  • Main entrances in homes: They offer an excellent first impression without compromising security. They also withstand varying weather conditions and require minimal maintenance.
  • Entrances in residential or corporate buildings: Ideal for high-traffic entry points where durability, design, and compatibility with access control systems are essential.
  • Retail stores and commercial spaces: Provide strong protection against theft or vandalism while allowing for integrated glass displays or storefronts without sacrificing safety.
  • Areas exposed to extreme weather: Their resistance to corrosion, fire, and impact makes them a solid choice for regions prone to hurricanes, wildfires, or coastal environments.
  • Modern architectural projects: Their ability to be customized in finishes, colors, and structural systems allows them to blend seamlessly into contemporary designs.

Aluminum doors have moved far beyond the perception of being just a lightweight and aesthetic option. Today, thanks to advances in design, technology, and materials, they offer a high-security solution that can compete with, and even outperform, traditional alternatives like wood, uPVC, or even steel.

Whether it’s for a home, a corporate building, or a space exposed to extreme conditions, aluminum delivers a powerful combination that’s hard to beat: strength, low maintenance, tech integration, and customizable design. On top of that, aluminum doors are competitively priced, with system options available to fit a wide range of budgets.

Looking for a door that protects what matters most, without compromising on style? At PRL Glass, we manufacture aluminum doors built to the highest standards of safety and innovation. Explore solutions like our Battle Door line and Thermally Broken System, and discover how to turn your entrance into a truly intelligent barrier.

Glass and Aluminum Manufacturers in Jacksonville

Premium Glass & Aluminum Solutions for Jacksonville

Jacksonville’s coastal growth and urban expansion make it a prime location for durable, efficient, and stylish architectural systems.

At PRL Glass & Aluminum, we supply Florida developers with custom glass and aluminum solutions that meet the demands of commercial, residential, and institutional construction.

From beachfront properties and hospitals to downtown towers and mixed-use developments, our products are built for resilience, elegance, and code compliance.

Building in Jacksonville? Connect with PRL Glass & Aluminum Today

Whether you’re working on oceanfront condos, medical centers, or educational facilities, PRL delivers high-performance materials and expert service to support your vision.

We proudly serve Jacksonville, St. Augustine, Orange Park, Fernandina Beach, and the greater Northeast Florida region.

Service 

Contact Number 

Aluminum Division 

📞 877-775-2586 

Glass Division 

📞 800-433-7044 

📍 Visit our locations in City of Industry, California and explore our wide range of innovative, high-quality aluminum and glass solutions!

Advanced Glass & Aluminum Designs for Jacksonville Builders

PRL systems are ideal for Jacksonville’s humid climate, coastal exposure, and modern building trends.

All systems meet Florida’s strict hurricane and building code requirements, including ASTM, NFRC, and LEED standards.

Why Jacksonville Builders Trust PRL Glass & Aluminum

Jacksonville developers rely on PRL for quality, speed, and performance. From luxury oceanfront towers to healthcare campuses and retail centers, we support Florida projects with unmatched expertise.

Why PRL is trusted in Florida:

✅ Rapid lead times and nationwide logistics

✅ Engineered systems for hurricane-prone regions

✅ Custom designs to fit modern Florida architecture

✅ Support from takeoff to install

PRL Glass and Aluminum in Jacksonville

Benefits of Glass and Aluminum Systems in Jacksonville

Florida’s construction needs materials that balance beauty with storm durability, glass and aluminum are ideal.

Key benefits include:

  • Impact Resistance – Laminated options for added security and storm protection
  • Energy Efficiency – Keeps buildings cooler in Florida’s heat and humidity
  • Salt Air Resilience – Aluminum systems resist corrosion near the coast
  • Modern Aesthetics – Complements Jacksonville’s contemporary design trends
  • Low Maintenance – Long-term reliability in challenging environments
  • Battle Door Capability – Reinforced systems for enhanced safety against break-ins, hurricanes, and civil unrest

PRL Glass & Aluminum, your National Supplier

From our location in California, PRL Glass & Aluminum serves Florida and all 50 states in the United States.

We offer service in major cities across the country:

Austin

San Antonio

San Diego

Dallas

San Jose

Follow us on social media ✅

Stay tuned for news, events, discounts and new products through the different social media channels.

Glass and Aluminum Manufacturers in Austin

Premium Glass & Aluminum Solutions for Austin

Austin’s explosive growth in tech, residential, and commercial construction demands architectural systems that perform under pressure.

PRL Glass & Aluminum delivers advanced aluminum and glass solutions that combine durability, energy efficiency, and modern design, perfectly suited for Austin’s climate and skyline.

From vibrant downtown developments to expanding suburban hubs like Round Rock and Cedar Park, we support Texas builders with high-performance products and nationwide delivery.

Building in Austin? Connect with PRL Glass & Aluminum Today

Whether you’re designing mixed-use towers, tech campuses, or LEED-certified housing, PRL offers precision manufacturing, fast turnaround, and expert consultation throughout Central Texas.

We proudly serve Austin, Round Rock, Georgetown, San Marcos, and the greater Central Texas region.

Service 

Contact Number 

Aluminum Division 

📞 877-775-2586 

Glass Division 

📞 800-433-7044 

📍 Visit our locations in City of Industry, California and explore our wide range of innovative, high-quality aluminum and glass solutions!

Advanced Glass & Aluminum Designs for Austin Builders

Our architectural systems are engineered to handle the fast pace and high standards of Texas construction, with solutions for all sectors.

All PRL products meet Texas building codes, as well as ASTM, NFRC, and LEED standards.

Why Central Texas Developers Trust PRL Glass & Aluminum

In Austin’s competitive construction market, time and quality are everything. Developers and contractors choose PRL for reliability, custom engineering, and outstanding client support.

Why PRL is trusted in Austin:

✅ Fast lead times and nationwide shipping

✅ Systems engineered for Texas heat and storm resistance

✅ Custom solutions for urban, campus, and hospitality projects

✅ Full support from takeoff to installation

From downtown towers to Hill Country resorts, PRL helps Texas projects rise with confidence.

PRL Glass and Aluminum in Austin

Benefits of Glass and Aluminum Systems in Austin

Austin’s blend of progressive architecture and sustainability goals makes glass and aluminum a smart choice for today’s construction.

Top benefits include:

  • Energy Efficiency – Reduces cooling loads and improves insulation
  • Contemporary Urban Aesthetics – Complements Austin’s sleek design language
  • Storm Durability – Reinforced systems built to endure severe weather
  • Low Maintenance – Ideal for high-traffic buildings and outdoor exposure
  • Sustainability – Fully recyclable materials for eco-conscious development
  • Battle Door Capability – Advanced systems that protect against break-ins, storms, and protest-related damage

PRL Glass & Aluminum, your National Supplier

From our location in California, PRL Glass & Aluminum serves Texas and all 50 states in the United States.

We offer service in major cities across the country:

Philadelphia

San Antonio

San Diego

Dallas

San Jose

Follow us on social media ✅

Stay tuned for news, events, discounts and new products through the different social media channels.

Aluminum vs Wood vs uPVC Doors

Aluminum, Wood or uPVC Doors? Which Lasts Longer and Saves More Energy?

Home / Articles posted byEduardo Savin

When it comes to choosing the ideal door for your home or business, the material should be one of the key factors in your decision. The three most common options on the market, aluminum, wood, and uPVC, each offer different advantages in terms of durability, maintenance, and energy efficiency. 

But which of these alternatives truly stands the test of time and helps reduce energy consumption the most? In this article, we provide a clear and practical comparison to help you make the right choice based on your needs and regional climate. 

Which is better between choosing aluminum, wood or PVC for your next door?

Quick Comparison: Aluminum, Wood & uPVC Doors 

Before diving into the details, here’s a side-by-side comparison of the three most popular materials for residential and commercial doors. This table highlights key features to give you a quick overview: 

Feature 

Aluminum 

Wood 

uPVC 

Durability 

Very high (resistant to rust and corrosion) 

High (but vulnerable to moisture and pests) 

Medium (can warp over time) 

Maintenance 

Low 

High (requires regular painting or sealing) 

Low 

Energy Efficiency 

High (with thermal break technology) 

High (naturally insulating material) 

Medium (insulating, but less efficient overall) 

Aesthetics 

Modern and customizable 

Classic and warm 

Limited design options 

Approx. Cost 

Low to high 

High 

Low 

This table serves as a starting point to help you identify which material best fits your priorities, whether you’re focused on durability, appearance, insulation, or budget. 

👉 You may be also interested in reading: How Thick Is an Aluminum Door? 

Which Door Lasts the Longest? A Look at Long-Term Durability 

One of the most important factors when choosing an exterior door is its ability to withstand time and environmental conditions. Each material responds differently to prolonged exposure to sunlight, rain, humidity, pests, or extreme temperature changes. 

Here’s how each material performs: 

  • Aluminum doors: Highly resistant to corrosion, rust, and impact. Thanks to their composition and modern surface treatments, they can last for decades without warping or losing functionality—even in coastal or humid climates. They can also be reinforced with technologies to withstand riots or hurricanes, for example. 
  • Wood doors: Offer excellent structural strength but require constant care. Exposure to moisture can lead to swelling, cracks, or pest infestations such as termites. Their lifespan depends heavily on maintenance, but if made of high-quality wood (not particleboard), they can last a long time—especially indoors. 
  • uPVC doors: While they resist moisture and don’t rust, they can degrade over time when exposed to strong sunlight. Warping and loss of rigidity are common after several years, particularly in hot regions. In cold areas, they may lose significant strength. 

In short, if you’re looking for a door with maximum durability and minimal maintenance, aluminum is one of the best long-term investments. 

👉 You may be interested in reading: 7 Reason for Choosing an Aluminum Door 

Energy Efficiency: Which Material Provides Better Insulation? 

The energy efficiency of a door is directly related to its ability to insulate a space both thermally and acoustically. This not only impacts indoor comfort but also affects energy consumption for heating or air conditioning. 

  • Aluminum doors: Traditionally, aluminum was criticized for being a poor thermal insulator. However, recent advances like thermally broken technology have changed that perception. This feature involves an internal barrier that reduces heat transfer between the exterior and interior, significantly improving the energy performance of modern aluminum doors. 
  • Wood doors: Wood is a naturally excellent insulator. Its porous structure helps retain warmth in winter and keep interiors cool in summer. It doesn’t require additional technology to offer solid insulation, although it can lose effectiveness over time if not properly maintained—especially in humid environments. 
  • uPVC doors: These also offer a good level of thermal insulation due to their low conductivity. They’re an efficient choice for mild climates, although performance may decline if the material degrades or if the frames are poorly sealed. 

In summary, all three options can provide good insulation when properly manufactured and installed. However, aluminum doors with thermal break technology offer an ideal combination of modern design, energy efficiency, and long-term durability. 

Aluminum doors offer good protection against weather and damage and are low maintenance.

Maintenance and Aesthetics: Which Material Fits Your Lifestyle Best? 

Beyond durability and insulation, choosing the right door also means considering required maintenance and how well it complements the architectural style of your space. 

  • Aluminum doors: An excellent option for those seeking low maintenance. They don’t rust, swell, or crack, and can be easily cleaned with water and mild soap. Aesthetically, they offer a modern and versatile look, with finishes that mimic wood or custom colors to suit any type of façade. 
  • Wood doors: While they offer a warm, traditional aesthetic that works well in classic or rustic designs, they require more care. Regular application of varnish, sealant, or paint is necessary to protect the wood from moisture, sunlight, or pests. Without this maintenance, they can deteriorate quickly—though there are now user-friendly products available at most supermarkets. 
  • uPVC doors: These also require little maintenance, as they don’t need paint or special treatments. However, their appearance tends to be more generic and limited in design options. Over time, they may yellow or lose their shine when exposed to prolonged sunlight, requiring them to be replaced. 

When it comes to aesthetics and ease of maintenance, aluminum doors strike an excellent balance between contemporary design, customization, and low upkeep. 

So, Which Type of Door Should You Choose? 

When comparing aluminum, wood, and uPVC doors, it’s clear that each material offers specific advantages depending on your needs, climate, and preferred style. 

  • If you value a classic aesthetic and don’t mind dedicating time to maintenance, wood can be a suitable option, especially for indoor use. 
  • If you’re looking for a budget-friendly choice for mild climates and are okay with replacing it over time, uPVC might work. 

Ready to upgrade your space with a door that blends design, durability, and energy efficiency? At PRL Glass, we’ll help you choose the best aluminum door for your home or commercial project. 

We offer cutting-edge technologies like thermally broken systems and Battle doors, perfect for those who need a complete and secure solution. 

Glass and Aluminum Manufacturers San Jose

Premium Glass & Aluminum Solutions for San Jose

In the heart of Silicon Valley, San Jose leads the way in innovation, technology, and sustainable building. At PRL Glass & Aluminum, we provide advanced glass and aluminum systems designed for commercial campuses, tech headquarters, high-density housing, and LEED-certified projects throughout the Bay Area.

From sleek storefronts in Santana Row to institutional buildings near San Jose State, our products offer the durability, energy performance, and aesthetics that San Jose builders demand.

Building in San Jose? Connect with PRL Glass & Aluminum Today

Whether you’re designing a corporate campus, healthcare facility, or modern residential tower, PRL offers custom fabrication, fast turnaround, and expert support across the Bay Area.

We proudly serve San Jose, Santa Clara, Sunnyvale, Palo Alto, Mountain View, and the greater South Bay region.

Service 

Contact Number 

Aluminum Division 

📞 877-775-2586 

Glass Division 

📞 800-433-7044 

📍 Visit our locations in City of Industry, California and explore our wide range of innovative, high-quality aluminum and glass solutions!

Advanced Glass & Aluminum Designs for San Jose Builders

PRL systems are designed to meet California’s strict energy codes and support the modern design language of Silicon Valley construction.

All systems comply with Title 24, ASTM, NFRC, and LEED requirements, ensuring long-term performance and compliance in the Bay Area.

Why San Jose Developers Trust PRL Glass & Aluminum

From Palo Alto startups to downtown revitalization, speed, flexibility, and sustainability are non-negotiable. That’s why San Jose builders choose PRL.

Why PRL is a top choice for Silicon Valley professionals:

✅ Short lead times and reliable shipping to the Bay Area

✅ Custom engineering for unique commercial and residential projects

✅ Energy-efficient systems aligned with California Green Building Standards

✅ Full support from design consultation to final installation

From Santa Clara to SoFA District, PRL empowers builders to deliver on time and exceed design expectations.

PRL Glass and Aluminum in San Jose

Benefits of Glass and Aluminum Systems in San Jose

In a region driven by innovation and efficiency, aluminum and glass systems are a smart investment for forward-thinking developers.

Key benefits include:

  • Energy Efficiency – Supports Title 24 and LEED performance targets
  • Clean, Modern Aesthetics – Matches the architectural identity of Silicon Valley
  • Durability & Low Maintenance – Perfect for high-use tech campuses and multi-family complexes
  • Acoustic Insulation – Ideal for urban areas and near transit corridors
  • Recyclability & Sustainability – Fully recyclable materials support environmental goals
  • Battle Door Capability – Reinforced aluminum and laminated glass enhance protection against break-ins, vandalism, and extreme weather

PRL Glass & Aluminum, your National Supplier

From our location in California, PRL Glass & Aluminum serves California and all 50 states in the United States.

We offer service in major cities across the country:

Philadelphia

San Antonio

San Diego

Dallas

Phoenix

Follow us on social media ✅

Stay tuned for news, events, discounts and new products through the different social media channels.