Is it better to buy alum. or pvc or vinyl windows? Is it important that a company is CAA approved?

What you choose is mainly going to be determined by budget and where you live.

Aluminum windows are stronger, last longer, and don't discolor than windows made with a vinyl frame. They don't require much maintenance. But one big problem with them is that aluminum retains the heat and/or cold from the outside. So that transfers into your home as energy loss, either by wasting heat in winter or air conditioning in summer. And they cost more than vinyl framed windows.

I personally have purchased both types. I installed painted white aluminum windows on my old home, and was very happy with them. No maintenance and still looked good after almost twenty years. But I also installed vinyl windows in part of the home and in my garage. Those discolored slightly over time, and one particularly cheap window I bout became brittle and the hand grip snapped after a few years.

If you go with vinyl, look for one that has a wood insert to help with insulation and sound dampening, as well as making the window more sturdy. And if you have an older home, you might consider just installing wooden frame windows, and use aluminum storm windows installed during the winter months.

Are you doing this in Canada? The only CAA I know is Canadian Automobile Association. If not, you may want to EDIT the category and maybe put this question in the DIY section to see if you get any other opinions.

Vinyl has the shortest life, perhaps less than 10 years. Aluminum could last the longest. Wood has the best appearance and is great as long as you paint them when they need it.

Hello

The approval is for insurance purposes in case of problems

Andy C