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How to clean my Glass Shower Door

The Ultimate Guide: How to Clean My Glass Shower Door and Keep It Spotless

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Glass shower doors bring a sleek and modern look to any bathroom, but they’re also notorious for attracting water spots, soap scum, and hard water stains. If you’ve ever found yourself asking “how to clean my glass shower door?”, you’re not alone.

This is one of the most common challenges in bathroom maintenance, and without the right approach, your door can go from crystal clear to cloudy and dull in no time.

The good news is that keeping your glass shower door spotless doesn’t have to be difficult or expensive. With a few smart techniques, some everyday household products, and a bit of consistency, you can restore your shower to its original shine.

In this ultimate guide, we’ll walk you through proven tips, tricks, and DIY solutions that will leave your glass doors sparkling (no harsh chemicals or complicated routines required).

How to clean my Glass Shower Door. Tips and Tricks

Before we started, we recommended Tools for Effortless Cleaning

To make the job easier and more effective, keep these on hand:

  • Squeegee (use daily)
  • Microfiber cloths (quick drying)
  • Sponge or Magic Eraser pads
  • Razor blade scraper (for mineral deposits)
  • Old toothbrush (for track corners)
  • Lemon
  • Vinegar
  • Dish Soap

Best Daily Habits to Keep Your Shower Door Clean

Keeping your shower door spotless starts with consistency. These simple daily habits help prevent the buildup of hard water spots and soap scum:

  • Use a squeegee after every shower: it removes water droplets before they dry and leave stains. Keep one hanging inside your shower.
  • Wipe down with a microfiber cloth: after the squeegee, a dry wipe helps absorb lingering moisture.
  • Spray with a daily cleaner: a quick mist of cleaning solution (store-bought or homemade) prevents buildup.
  • Ventilate properly: leave the door open after showering to allow airflow and reduce humidity, which minimizes mold and mildew.

The trick is very similar to when it rains, and you want to keep your car in good condition. The water that reaches our house, although it is safe for use, has metals and chemical elements that leave traces on glass, so the ideal is to dry it before it rains.

How to Deep Clean Your Glass Shower Door: When the drops had already appeared

Even with good habits, deep cleaning is occasionally necessary. Here are two highly effective, chemical-free methods:

Method 1: Vinegar & Dish Soap Combo

Perfect for breaking down stubborn grime and soap scum:

  1. Heat 1/2 cup of vinegar and combine 1/2 cup of dish soap.
  2. Spray the mixture on both sides of the door.
  3. Let it sit for 30 minutes.
  4. Rinse thoroughly and dry with a microfiber cloth.
  5. Repeat if necessary

⚠️ Note: Do not use vinegar on natural stone tiles, it can cause damage.

Method 2: Lemon & Baking Soda

Ideal for natural freshness and shine:

  1. Cut the lemon in half and dip it into baking soda.
  2. Rub the lemon on both sides of the glass.
  3. The foaming reaction breaks down buildup gently.
  4. Rinse, dry, and optionally apply lemon oil for water resistance.
  5. Repeat if necessary

The door should be 100 percent clean: how to Clean Shower Door Tracks

Even if your glass is spotless, dirty tracks can ruin the look. Here’s how to tackle them:

  1. Plug the track’s drain hole with a paper towel.
  2. Pour distilled white vinegar into the track and let it sit overnight.
  3. Soak up the vinegar in the morning and scrub with an old toothbrush.
  4. Use a razor blade scraper (carefully) for hardened grime.
  5. Wipe down thoroughly.
  6. Repeat if necessary

Tip: Dry the tracks daily with a cloth to prevent moisture buildup. Most aluminum doors (of good quality) can withstand a lot of dirt but keeping them in good condition is key to better styling.

The big problem is to remove the water drops, but fortunately they can be avoided and cleaned.

Extra Tricks to Prevent Stains and Buildup

Want to reduce cleaning frequency? Try these extra steps:

  • Use liquid body wash instead of bar soap to minimize soap scum.
  • Install a water softener to reduce calcium and magnesium that cause hard water stains.
  • Apply a water-repellent spray (like Rain-X) to help water slide off effortlessly.
  • Clean after your last daily shower: Heat and humidity help loosen grime for easier removal.

When your shower door is installed, you should be given tips on how to maintain it properly. Our professionals at PRL Glass will give you a basic care guide to keep glass and aluminum in good condition.

How often should we clean our shower doors?

While cleaning can be done once, the right thing to do is to have a schedule to keep your investment in good condition.

  • Daily: Squeegee the door and spray with cleaner after each use. Drane our door track
  • Weekly: Wipe down glass, tracks, and walls using a sponge.
  • Monthly: Deep clean the entire shower area and reapply any water-repellent treatments.

If you’ve been wondering how to clean my glass shower door without spending hours scrubbing or using harsh chemicals, this guide has you covered. By incorporating daily habits, smart tools, and the right natural ingredients, you can keep your bathroom sparkling with minimal effort.

Whether you prefer a quick daily wipe or an occasional deep clean, these solutions are designed to help you save time while achieving a clear, streak-free finish. Stick with these tips, and your glass shower door will become a showcase of your bathroom, not a source of stress.

 

ASTM Standar

What are ASTM International Standards and Why It Matters When Choosing a Supplier

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When it comes to ensuring the quality, safety, and performance of materials used in construction and manufacturing, relying on internationally recognized standards isn’t just advisable — it’s essential. One of the most widely used systems to achieve this is the ASTM standard, developed by ASTM International. 

For leading suppliers that offer high-performance architectural solutions, understanding and applying ASTM standards is key to ensuring that their products meet the strength, durability, and safety levels demanded by today’s modern projects. 

All glass and aluminum systems you purchase must meet ASTM standards.

What Are ASTM International Standards?  

ASTM International (formerly the American Society for Testing and Materials) is an organization composed of more than 30,000 experts from over 140 countries, including engineers, scientists, manufacturers, consultants, and end users. This body develops voluntary international standards that are widely adopted across industries such as construction, energy, transportation, healthcare, and manufacturing. 

Each ASTM standard has a specific code (like ASTM C1048 for annealed glass or ASTM E330 for structural wind load testing on façades), and falls into different categories such as: 

  • Test Methods 
  • Specifications 
  • Guides 
  • Practices 
  • Classifications 
  • Terminology 

ASTM standards ensure that materials and products perform consistently and safely by providing: 

  • Parameters to assess mechanical, chemical, and structural properties 
  • A common language among manufacturers, builders, and regulatory authorities 
  • A foundation for quality testing, certifications, and compliance processes 

While ASTM standards are voluntary, many building codes and safety regulations adopt them as mandatory references, especially in products like impact-resistant glazing, safety glass, and structural components. 

How Are ASTM Standards Developed? 

ASTM standards don’t emerge by chance. They are developed through a transparent, consensus-based process that invites participation from any interested stakeholder. Each new standard is reviewed by specialized technical committees and undergoes multiple rounds of feedback and voting. 

There are currently over 12,000 active ASTM standards, organized under 143 technical committees and published in the Annual Book of ASTM Standards, which covers everything from adhesives to nuclear energy. 

The Impact of ASTM Standards 

The influence of ASTM standards spans across numerous industries and plays a critical role in the following areas: 

  • Quality Assurance: They offer a standardized framework for manufacturers to produce consistent and reliable products, fostering trust from both consumers and regulatory bodies. 
  • Safety: In sectors where structural integrity is vital — such as architectural glazing or façade systems — ASTM standards help prevent accidents and protect lives. 
  • Interoperability: These standards promote compatibility among products from different manufacturers, ensuring seamless performance in complex systems like curtain walls or automatic doors. 
  • Regulatory Compliance: Many governments and certification bodies use ASTM standards as official references. Meeting them is often a prerequisite for public tenders or LEED certifications. 
  • International Trade: Thanks to their global recognition, ASTM standards serve as a common language that lowers trade barriers and facilitates product exports into new markets. 
All the systems we sell at PRL have this type of certification.

Real-World Application: PRL and ASTM Standards 

At PRL Glass & Aluminum, many products, including curtain wall systems, laminated glass, impact-resistant Battle Doors, and glass railing systems, are designed and tested in accordance with key ASTM standards. 

Some notable examples include: 

  • ASTM E1300: Standard for determining the load resistance of architectural glass 
  • ASTM E1886 / E1996: Impact resistance tests for products subject to hurricane conditions 
  • ASTM E330: Structural performance of exterior windows, curtain walls, and doors under uniform static air pressure 
  • ASTM C1048: Specification for heat-treated flat glass (tempered or annealed) 

These standards ensure PRL’s architectural solutions not only meet aesthetic expectations, but they also deliver the structural reliability and safety required by engineers and architects on every project. 

Adopting ASTM standards is a smart business decision that promotes transparency, trust, and safety. In the architectural and glass industry, working with a supplier like PRL Glass & Aluminum, which meets or exceeds the most demanding international standards, is a guarantee of lasting quality. 

Whether you’re looking for impact-resistant doors, high-performance façades, or structural glass systems, PRL is ready to provide you with ASTM-compliant solutions. Request technical specs or a custom quote today, and give your project the strength and credibility it deserves. 

Why Choose ASTM-Standard Metals

When it comes to selecting the right metal for a project, quality should never be left to chance. Materials that meet ASTM standards provide assurance of reliability, safety, and proven performance, making them the ideal choice for industrial, construction, and manufacturing applications.

Choosing ASTM-certified metals offers several advantages:

  • Wide range of materials: From common steels to specialized alloys, there is a solution available for every requirement.
  • Clarity in selection: ASTM specifications provide precise guidelines that help identify the right metal for each application, reducing the risk of costly mistakes.
  • Consistency in performance: Due to rigorous testing and controls, these materials ensure uniform properties and dependable results across different environments.

In summary, ASTM-compliant metals not only meet essential requirements but also allow projects to move forward with greater confidence, minimizing risks and optimizing processes.

Curtain wall Trends

5 New Trends for Curtain Wall in 2025

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The curtain wall is no longer just a structural solution: it has become a design statement. In recent years, architects and developers have reimagined its role, transforming facades into dynamic canvases that reflect innovation, sustainability and modern identity.

As we move into 2025, curtain wall systems continue to evolve, embracing new materials, geometric experimentation and performance technologies that respond to both climatic demands and aesthetic expectations.

This year’s trends push the boundaries of conventional façade design, emphasizing energy efficiency, modular integration and architectural expression. From sculptural forms and metal hybrids to high-performance glazing and digital fabrication, curtain walls are setting the tone for the future of commercial and institutional buildings.

In this article, we explore five prominent trends that are shaping the way curtain wall systems will be designed, fabricated and admired in 2025.

👉 You may also be interested in reading: Storefront vs Curtainwall: Which Is the Best Option for Your Project?

Trend 1: Integrated Curves and Fluid Geometry

Trend 1: Integrated Curves and Fluid Geometry

The curtain wall design in this image showcases a bold shift from traditional flat glass façades to organic, curved geometries. This architectural trend merges aesthetics with aerodynamics, offering a futuristic, fluid form that redefines the visual rhythm of the building’s exterior.

In 2025, we are seeing more designers push boundaries with custom-bent glass panels and curtain wall frames engineered to follow seamless curves. This not only enhances light distribution but also gives the structure a sculptural identity—perfect for high-end commercial or institutional projects seeking visual distinction.

Additionally, the use of low-reflective coatings and metallic frame accents indicates an emphasis on glare reduction and material contrast—two growing priorities in urban design and sustainability.

Trend 2: Biophilic Integration with Transparent Curtain Walls

Trend 2: Biophilic Integration with Transparent Curtain Walls

This trend blends architectural modernity with nature. The image showcases a transparent glass curtain wall system that allows an abundance of natural light while blurring the boundaries between indoors and outdoors. In 2025, more buildings are opting for biophilic designs that prioritize mental wellness, visibility of greenery, and energy efficiency.

The slim aluminum mullions and floor-to-ceiling glass panels not only highlight structural minimalism but also accommodate passive climate control, reducing the need for artificial lighting and enhancing sustainability metrics. Expect this seamless indoor-outdoor connectivity to become a standard in wellness-focused commercial architecture.

Trend 3: Dynamic Geometry and Facade Sculpting

Trend 3: Dynamic Geometry and Facade Sculpting

This curtain wall design exemplifies one of the boldest trends in 2025: using non-linear geometries to break away from traditional flat facades. The image reveals a structure with angled, faceted glass panels framed in metallic mullions, creating a sculptural effect that plays with light and shadow throughout the day.

Beyond aesthetics, this geometric dynamism improves passive shading and contributes to thermal regulation. These types of facades not only become architectural statements but also serve functional purposes in sustainable design. Architects are increasingly exploring 3D curtain wall systems that are both expressive and energy-efficient, marking a new era in exterior innovation.

👉 You may also be interested in reading: 5 New Trends for Storefront Systems in 2025

Trend 4: Transparency Meets Texture: The Rise of Layered Glass

Trend 4: Transparency Meets Texture: The Rise of Layered Glass

This curtain wall showcases one of the most refined trends of 2025: layered glass textures that combine ultra-clear transparency with subtle material contrasts. The building in the image features vertical divisions using glass with varied translucency levels, producing an elegant rhythm across the facade.

This trend elevates curtain walls from mere structural elements to architectural canvases, where designers experiment with textures, fritted patterns, and light diffusion coatings. These layers can enhance privacy, reduce glare, and still maintain visual openness—making it a favorite in corporate and cultural buildings where both aesthetics and function matter.

Trend 5: Sculptural Geometry and Metal Integration

Trend 5: Sculptural Geometry and Metal Integration

The final image captures a curtain wall trend that’s gaining momentum: bold geometric modulation combined with metallic framing elements. Instead of a flat, uniform grid, this facade introduces asymmetric lines and angled cuts, creating a sculptural, kinetic appearance.

Integrated metal panels add depth and texture while also offering durability and contrast against the glass. This trend is particularly effective for tech campuses, luxury commercial towers, and cultural centers aiming for an iconic architectural identity. The combination of architectural aluminum and reflective glazing also enhances performance while delivering a futuristic aesthetic.

Tips for the hurricane season

5 Safety Tips for Hurricane Season

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When a hurricane approaches, every decision counts. The actions you take during the storm can make the difference between staying safe or facing serious danger.  

Hurricanes bring strong winds, torrential rains and unpredictable damage, so preparation is key. Fortunately, technology has helped reduce the risk with tools that provide real-time information and even doors that withstand impacts. 

That’s why we’re listing five essential tips that will help you (and your home) to be safe in hurricanes.  

In hurricanes, strong winds can damage doors, advantages and entire facades, so it is necessary to protect them against these attacks.

From Information to Impact Doors: 5 Hurricane Safety Tips 

Hurricane season can be quite stressful for everyone. This is because, with global warming, storms have been getting stronger and stronger in recent years, as stated by the U.S. government. 

Fortunately, there are very important steps that can protect you, your loved ones, and your home, from the impacts of these superstorms. 

Always Stay Informed and Have a Battery-Powered Radio 

The most important thing is to stay informed in real time. Hurricanes are unpredictable and can move upward or downward, as well as change trajectory. The weather services will report information on how close and powerful it will be.  

Power outages are common during hurricanes as well as telephone, internet and television interruptions. Having a battery-powered or hand-crank radio can keep you informed of emergency alerts and storm updates.  

Tune in to the National Weather Service, which broadcasts 24 hours a day, 7 days a week. Be sure to stock up on extra batteries to stay connected for the duration of the storm. 

👉 You can see radars and real time updates here 

Prepare Your Home in Advance with Protective Attachments 

Homes and businesses must be prepared to withstand extreme weather. Windows and doors are critical elements in keeping your family safe. 

In the case of traditional glass, it can break into a thousand pieces, so it’s an important safety point. Replacing these windows with stronger, laminated glass can help withstand high winds, plus they won’t explode. 

In the case of businesses, bulletproof glass will help withstand hurricanes of the highest power. And since it protects against bullets, it can, of course, withstand items projected by hurricane force winds. 

In the case of doors, high-tech systems like PRL’s Battle doors are designed to withstand impacts from wild winds and more. This makes their Battle doors an excellent choice for people who have gardens or for businesses located on streets. 

Likewise, aluminum doors such as bifold doors, storefront systems and curtainwalls can help protect from moisture and rain. 

Also, many stores in the United States sell external door and window guards. These are made of materials such as plastic or wood, that can increase the security of your home. 

Know How to Disconnect Utilities 

Knowing how to disconnect the main electric, gas and water lines in your home is critical. A power surge after a blackout can fry appliances or even start a fire.  

Gas leaks are especially dangerous if undetected and can cause explosions. Water pipes should also be shut off to prevent backflow or flooding. Take time before the storm to locate your home’s utility shutoff valves and learn how to operate them properly. 

Use Emergency Equipment Safely 

Generators are useful during power outages but should be used with care. Always use them outdoors and away from windows or doors to avoid carbon monoxide poisoning. Place a carbon monoxide detector near any point of entry as an extra precaution. 

If you use candles for lighting, keep them away from flammable materials and never leave them unattended. Opt for battery-powered lanterns or lanterns as a safer alternative whenever possible. 

Always Have an Evacuation Plan in Mind 

Even if you prepare everything, there are times when the storm becomes so dangerous that you must have an evacuation plan. And sometimes there are even government issued evacuations. 

  • Identify evacuation routes: Know the best routes to take if you need to evacuate. 
  • Assemble an emergency kit: Include essentials such as food, water, first aid supplies and medications.  
  • Prepare your car: Fill up your gas tank and make sure your car is ready to go.  
  • Follow evacuation orders: Leave immediately if ordered to do so by local authorities. 
Always be informed in real time, as hurricanes are so changeable that you may need to make evacuation plans or just be careful in the face of the storm.

How Can I Prepare for the Coming Storm Season? 

Preparations should begin well in advance of the hurricane season in the United States, which usually lasts from May to June. For this reason, there is plenty of time to begin preparations little by little. 

First you should check if your doors and windows are safe, especially for homes with yards, businesses or outbuildings. If you need to replace them, then finding a reliable supplier that installs quickly and offers a warranty is paramount. In this case, PRL Glass & Aluminum has everything you need. 

We have a range of products that can help protect your home from storms and hurricanes, which will help keep you safe: 

  • Battle Doors: A new product in PRL’s catalog, these Battle doors are specifically designed to withstand impacts and deliver hurricane and storm protection that’s never been seen before in this type of door. 
  • Aluminum doors and systems: Although many are not designed to withstand large impacts, aluminum is a moisture and waterresistant material. So, using aluminum doors instead of wood, will prevent the rust and leaks typical of other materials. 

Contact us now! We’ll help you get the storm and hurricane protection you need. We’re available to assist you right now! 

5 New Trends for Handrail in 2025

5 New Trends for Handrail in 2025

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In contemporary architecture, handrailings are no longer just safety requirements: they are an essential part of the design language. In 2025, we’re seeing a dramatic evolution of railing systems that combine aesthetics, functionality and innovation.

From ultra-transparent glass to concealed anchoring and invisible edges, these trends are reshaping both residential and commercial spaces.

Whether it’s luxury homes, businesses like hotels or modern offices, today’s railings enhance transparency, blend into their surroundings and achieve seamless architectural harmony.

Here are five standout trends that are redefining handrailing design this year:

👉 You may also be interested in reading: Bifold Doors vs Sliding Doors: What’s the Best Option for Your Project?

Trend 1: Frameless Glass Railing Systems for a Sleek, Open Aesthetic

Trend 1: Frameless Glass Railing Systems for a Sleek, Open Aesthetic

In 2025, handrail design is moving toward minimalist transparency, and frameless glass railing systems are leading the way. As seen in this installation, tempered safety glass combined with stainless steel posts and top rails offers both structural integrity and contemporary elegance.

Key characteristics of this trend:

  • Clean, unobtrusive profiles that visually open up staircases and mezzanines.
  • Increased light flow and spatial continuity, ideal for modern office buildings, airports, and commercial centers.
  • Durability and compliance, with materials that meet international safety standards while maintaining architectural sophistication.

This approach aligns with the broader movement toward open-concept spaces, where handrails are not just functional elements but integral design features that contribute to the visual and spatial harmony of the environment.

Trend 2: Panoramic Glass Railings for Seamless Views in Elevated Architecture

Trend 2: Panoramic Glass Railings for Seamless Views in Elevated Architecture

As modern architecture increasingly embraces open landscapes and hillside builds, panoramic glass railings are becoming essential. This trend prioritizes uninterrupted visibility, safety, and architectural harmony, especially in residential and hospitality projects located in scenic environments.

What defines this trend:

  • Ultra-clear laminated glass panels with minimal or hidden fasteners to preserve panoramic views.
  • Flush-mount installation that blends into concrete or stone terraces for a floating effect.
  • Visual lightness that contrasts bold architectural volumes, creating a refined balance between solidity and transparency.

This type of handrail is ideal for properties built on elevated terrain or featuring large balconies, offering a high-end look while prioritizing safety without obstruction.

Trend 3: Pool-Safe Glass Handrails with Frameless Gates for Elevated Outdoor Living

Trend 3: Pool-Safe Glass Handrails with Frameless Gates for Elevated Outdoor Living

In 2025, luxury outdoor spaces are embracing frameless glass railing systems with integrated safety gates, especially in poolside environments. This trend prioritizes uninterrupted sightlines, UV resistance, and child-safe access, combining elegance with functionality.

Key elements of this handrail trend:

  • Tempered, marine-grade glass that withstands moisture, heat, and chlorine exposure.
  • Self-closing, lockable glass gates for secure pool area containment without visual bulk.
  • Low-profile stainless steel hardware and concealed anchoring systems that preserve a clean, resort-like atmosphere.
  • Rapid Dryset are a most

Perfect for terraces, spa decks, and infinity pools, this system reflects the growing demand for safety-compliant solutions that don’t compromise on design — turning railings into seamless extensions of luxury architecture.

Trend 4: Invisible Edge Handrails for Immersive Landscape Integration

Trend 4: Invisible Edge Handrails for Immersive Landscape Integration

In 2025, one of the most aspirational handrail trends is the rise of “invisible edge” glass railing systems, especially in luxury resorts, spas, and private villas. This design uses ultra-clear, low-iron glass with flush-mounted bases to create the illusion of floating over nature.

What makes this trend stand out:

  • Edge-to-edge transparency that dissolves visual boundaries between the built environment and the natural world.
  • Slim base shoes or recessed mounting tracks that eliminate bulky framing.
  • High-performance coatings to resist corrosion, UV damage, and saltwater exposure in tropical or coastal settings.

This style is the gold standard for uninterrupted views, merging architectural elegance with biophilic design, ideal for infinity pools, golf course perimeters, and eco-luxury retreats.

Trend 5: Shoe-Base Glass Handrails for Floating Staircase Designs

Trend 5: Shoe-Base Glass Handrails for Floating Staircase Designs

A key trend in high-end residential design for 2025 is the integration of shoe-base glass handrails into floating staircases. This system uses a discreet floor-mounted shoe or channel to anchor large glass panels, eliminating the need for posts or top rails — as shown in this seamless, multi-level interior.

Key benefits of this system:

  • Uninterrupted vertical glazing that reinforces the illusion of floating steps.
  • Structural support built into the floor or stair slab, allowing for clean transitions and minimal hardware.
  • Versatility across levels, adapting to open-concept homes, lofts, and luxury renovations.

This handrail style is a hallmark of modern elegance, where the glass itself becomes both a design feature and a structural element, contributing to the spatial fluidity of the entire architecture.

Why do we use aluminum in construction?

Why Is Aluminum Used In Construction?

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From the Empire State building to modern homes to state-of-the-art Olympic stadiums, aluminum has gained an important place in construction. Its lightness, durability and corrosion resistance make it one of the most versatile and sustainable materials of the 21st century. But why are engineers, architects and developers increasingly choosing it? 

In this article we explain everything you need to know about aluminum in construction: its properties, benefits, applications and reasons why it’s considered a true “material of the future”. 

Aluminum in construction

Why Is Aluminum Ideal For Construction? 

Aluminum wasn’t always so accessible. Until the beginning of the 20th century, its production was limited and expensive. In fact, until a few years ago (very few in fact), materials such as steel, concrete, wood, and even PVC were much more widely used in all types of projects.  

Everything changed with the development of the electrolysis process, which reduced the cost of extraction by 80%. Today, almost 25% of the aluminum produced worldwide is destined for the construction sector, with a prediction that this number will be much larger by 2027. 

But why is it so widely used today? Below, we explore the main advantages of aluminum in modern construction projects: 

Perfect Combination of Lightness and Strength 

Aluminum weighs only one third of the weight of steel, making it ideal for structures such as facades, roofs, stairs, windows, frames and enclosures. Its high strength-to-weight ratio facilitates the design of slimmer, lighter and more efficient buildings, while reducing transportation and installation costs. 

The Perfect Material for Low Maintenance 

Thanks to its alloys with elements such as magnesium or manganese, aluminum is highly resistant to corrosion, moisture and UV rays. It doesn’t oxidize like other metals and maintenance is minimal, even in coastal or industrial environments. 

In addition, when anodized, its surface becomes three times harder, with high resistance to wear, flaking or chipping. Also, only a few materials are needed for cleaning, such as everyday tap water. 

Thermal Insulation and Energy Efficiency 

Aluminum reflects heat naturally. Applied in roofs, windows or shading systems, it can keep interiors cooler in summer, reducing the use of air conditioning up to 59° F 

Combined with double glazing or technologies such as thermally broken systems, it can offer outstanding thermal and acoustic insulation. This makes it a key material in sustainable construction and certifications such as LEED. 

Fire Resistant Material 

Aluminum does not burn and is classified as a non-combustible material (class A1). Although it melts at 1202° F, it doesn’t release toxic gases. Therefore, it’s often used in exterior cladding, where it can contain the spread of fire and allow heat and smoke to escape in an emergency. 

Aesthetic and Customizable 

Thanks to its properties, aluminum can be lacquered or anodized in almost any color, allowing it to be adapted to all types of architectural styles, from modern facades to classic designs. 

It can be bent, drilled, extruded or milled with great precision. This makes it a favorite choice for those seeking both functionality and beauty. 

100% Recyclable and Sustainable 

Aluminum is a recyclable material that cannot lose its properties. It’s estimated that 75% of all aluminum produced in history is still in use today. Moreover, recycling it requires only 5% of the energy needed to produce it from scratch. 

That’s why aluminum is considered a green material and excellent for preserving the environment.   

Aluminum as a construction material

Where Is Aluminum Used in Construction?  

The use of aluminum is as broad as it is innovative. Here are some of its most common applications: 

  • Windows, doors, partitions and automated access systems. 
  • Handrails, stairways, false ceilings and interior partitions. 
  • Facade cladding and solar shading panels. 
  • Drainage systems, gutters and downspouts. 
  • Transportation infrastructure, bridges and stadiums. 

Whether for aesthetic, functional, ecological or economic reasons, aluminum has become one of the best options in modern construction. Its lightness, durability and adaptability make it the preferred choice for visionary architects, discerning engineers and developers committed to sustainability. 

With the evolution of alloys, treatment processes and their integration into intelligent systems, aluminum’s potential is beginning to expand, as its use will increase in the coming years. 

And to make the most of all these advantages, it’s essential to have a supplier that offers high-quality products, tailor-made solutions and proven expertise. PRL Glass & Aluminum is a leading manufacturer of architectural aluminum and glass systems in the United States.  

They extrude profiles, produce door, window, and storefront systems, and combine technology, aesthetics, and strength in meeting the highest design and regulatory standards. 

With domestic manufacturing, fast delivery and personalized attention, PRL is a reliable partner that can transform any architectural project into efficient, safe and visually stunning work. 

Are you planning your next project? Investing in aluminum is investing in the future… and doing it with PRL guarantees long-lasting results.