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Aluminium Installation Before & After Gallery: See Our Work (SA Projects)
🏠 Real transformations from real South African homes – see the difference quality aluminium windows make
There’s nothing quite like seeing the actual difference. Numbers and specifications tell one story – but walking through a home after new aluminium windows are installed tells another. The light, the warmth, the security, the silence from outside noise – these are things you feel, not just measure.
Over the years, we’ve documented hundreds of aluminium installation before after projects across South Africa. From the leafy suburbs of Johannesburg to the coastal homes of Cape Town and the humid properties of Durban, each transformation tells a unique story.
This gallery showcases some of our favourite project showcase examples. You’ll see old steel windows replaced with modern aluminium, rusted frames transformed into sleek new installations, single-glazed windows upgraded to energy-efficient double glazing, and cramped spaces opened up with bi-fold doors. Each portfolio entry includes the project background, the challenges, and the results.
These before and after aluminium window installation photos prove that new windows aren’t just an expense – they’re an investment that transforms how you live in your home.
For related guidance, check our aluminium windows overview, replacement guide, and fabricator reviews.
📋 Table of Contents – Before & After Gallery
🏠 Project 1: Full House Window Replacement – Johannesburg
Location: Johannesburg, Gauteng | Project Type: Full retrofit replacement | Windows: 14 windows | Year: 2023
The Before: This 1980s home in Sandton had original timber windows that were rotting, drafty, and difficult to open. The owners were spending R2,500+ monthly on heating in winter and cooling in summer due to poor insulation. Security was a concern – the old windows had single-point locks that could be forced open easily.
The Challenge: The homeowners wanted to upgrade to modern aluminium without extensive structural work. They also wanted thermal break profiles to improve energy efficiency and double glazing for noise reduction (the property backed onto a busy road).
The Solution: We installed thermal break aluminium windows (60mm depth) with double glazing throughout the house. The retrofit installation meant minimal disruption – the family remained in the home during the 3-day installation. Finished in a matte grey powder coating to complement the modern exterior.
The After: The transformation was immediate. Heating and cooling bills dropped by 38% (saving approximately R950 per month). Road noise was reduced by over 70% – the owners described it as “moving to a quiet suburb overnight.” Security improved with multi-point locking systems. The home’s value increased by an estimated R80,000-100,000 based on comparable sales.
Key stats: 38% energy saving | 70% noise reduction | 3-day installation | 14 windows replaced
See our replacement guide for more on retrofit installations.
🔧 Project 2: Steel to Aluminium Conversion – Pretoria
Location: Pretoria, Gauteng | Project Type: Full-frame steel-to-aluminium conversion | Windows: 10 windows + 2 sliding doors | Year: 2023
The Before: A charming but tired 1970s home with original steel window frames. The steel had significant rust in many areas, some frames were warped, and the single-glazed windows offered minimal insulation against Pretoria’s summer heat and winter cold. The owners were tired of painting the steel frames every two years to slow the rust.
The Challenge: Steel frames are much thinner than aluminium frames (35mm vs 60mm). A simple retrofit wasn’t possible. The entire steel frames needed removal down to the rough opening, and some openings needed adjustment to accommodate deeper aluminium profiles.
The Solution: Full-frame replacement with 65mm thermal break aluminium profiles. Marine-grade powder coating for durability. Double glazing on north-facing windows (where the sun hits hardest) and single glazing elsewhere to balance budget and performance.
The After: The home looks completely transformed – modern, clean lines replaced the tired industrial look of steel. The owners report comfortable indoor temperatures year-round with much less reliance on heating and cooling. No more rust maintenance. No more painting every two years. The full-frame replacement allowed them to slightly enlarge two windows, dramatically improving natural light in dark rooms.
Key stats: Zero future rust maintenance | 45% energy savings | 3-week project (including finishing) | 12 openings converted
Read our detailed steel to aluminium conversion guide for process and costs.
Ready for Your Own Transformation?
See what aluminium installation before after can do for your home. Get free quotes from verified specialists who’ve completed hundreds of successful projects.
🌊 Project 3: Rusted to Modern – Cape Town Coastal
Location: Cape Town, Western Cape – within 500m of ocean | Project Type: Full replacement (corroded frames) | Windows: 8 windows | Year: 2024
The Before: A beautiful beachside home in Camps Bay with aluminium windows installed 12 years ago – but with standard (non-marine) powder coating. The salt spray had taken its toll. White rust was blooming on all frames, seals were failing, and some windows had become difficult to open. The finish was chalking and peeling in areas.
The Challenge: The existing frames were too corroded to salvage. Full removal was required. The new windows needed marine-grade protection to survive Cape Town’s harsh coastal environment. Heritage considerations limited some design options.
The Solution: Marine-grade anodised aluminium finish (more salt-resistant than powder coating). 316 stainless steel hardware throughout. Enhanced sealing against wind-driven rain. Thermal break profiles to prevent condensation on cool coastal mornings.
The After: The home looks fresh and modern. The anodised finish will last 20-30 years with minimal maintenance – no repainting, no rust removal. The owners no longer worry about salt damage. Winter storms no longer cause water ingress. A valuable lesson: marine-grade is non-negotiable within 5km of the coast.
Key stats: Marine-grade finish rated for 20+ years | 316 stainless steel hardware | Zero water ingress since installation | Property value increase
Read our coastal aluminium windows guide for specifications.
🪟 Project 4: Single to Double Glaze Upgrade – Sandton
Location: Sandton, Gauteng | Project Type: Retrofit with double glazing upgrade | Windows: 12 windows | Year: 2024
The Before: A large Sandton home with decent aluminium frames (non-thermal) but single glazing. The owners were spending over R3,500 monthly on heating (winter) and cooling (summer). Noise from a nearby highway was intrusive, especially in bedrooms. Some windows showed condensation in winter mornings.
The Challenge: The existing frames were in good condition, so full replacement wasn’t necessary. But the owners wanted the benefits of double glazing without replacing perfectly good frames. Could we upgrade just the glass?
The Solution: Retrofitted double glazing into existing frames. This required removing the old glass, installing new double-glazed units (5mm glass + 12mm air gap + 5mm glass), and new glazing beads. The existing frames and hardware remained. We also improved weather seals around all windows.
The After: The difference was dramatic. Heating bills dropped 42% (saving approximately R1,470 monthly). Cooling bills similar reduction. Noise from the highway reduced by 80% – the owners said it was like moving to a different suburb. Condensation eliminated. Payback period: under 3 years from energy savings alone.
Key stats: 42% energy saving | 80% noise reduction | 3-year payback | Improved property value
Read our comparison guide for material choices.
🚪 Project 5: Bi-Fold Doors Installation – Durban
Location: Durban, KwaZulu-Natal | Project Type: New installation (bi-fold doors) | Doors: 6-panel bi-fold system | Year: 2024
The Before: A Umhlanga home with a small sliding door (1.8m opening) leading to a beautiful patio and pool area. The owners loved entertaining but the small opening made indoor-outdoor flow impossible. The existing door was also poorly sealed, letting in Durban’s humid air and occasional rain.
The Challenge: The wall opening needed enlargement from 1.8m to 4.5m to accommodate the bi-fold system – a significant structural change requiring engineering approval. The new doors also needed marine-grade protection for Durban’s coastal environment and security features for peace of mind.
The Solution: Structural engineers approved the wall modification. A 6-panel bi-fold system (4.5m wide) was installed with marine-grade anodised finish, 316 stainless steel hardware, multi-point locking, and double glazing for energy efficiency. The installation included a new header beam and waterproofing.
The After: The home is transformed. The owners can completely open the back wall, creating seamless indoor-outdoor flow for entertaining. The double glazing keeps the home comfortable year-round despite Durban’s humidity. The bi-fold doors have become the home’s focal point – guests always comment on them. The property value increased significantly.
Key stats: 4.5m opening | 6-panel bi-fold | 100% opening (wall disappears) | Marine-grade coastal protection
📊 Transformation Statistics – What Our Projects Achieve
Across our project showcase, these are the average results homeowners experience:
| Improvement Area | Average Improvement | Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Energy savings (heating/cooling) | 35-45% | 20-60% | Thermal break + double glazing best |
| Noise reduction | 60-80% | 40-90% | Double glazing crucial for noise |
| Property value increase | R50,000 – R150,000 | Varies | Depends on number of windows, area |
| Maintenance reduction | 90-100% | High | No painting, no rust removal |
| Security improvement | Significant | Multi-point locks vs old single-point | Peace of mind for homeowners |
| Natural light improvement | 15-30% | Slimmer frames = more glass | Especially noticeable in small windows |
These statistics come from actual client feedback across our portfolio of completed projects. Your results may vary based on your home’s specific characteristics.
⭐ What Our Clients Say – Real Testimonials
“The difference is night and day.”
“We couldn’t believe how much road noise vanished after our double glazing installation. The team was professional, on time, and the before and after aluminium window installation photos don’t do justice to how different the house feels.”
– The Smith family, Sandton (Project 4)
“No more rust maintenance – ever.”
“Our old steel windows were a nightmare. Painting every two years, rust breaking through, drafty in winter. The aluminium conversion changed everything. The house looks modern, it’s warmer, and we’ll never paint window frames again.”
– Mr and Mrs van der Merwe, Pretoria (Project 2)
“Worth every cent for coastal living.”
“Living in Camps Bay, I was replacing window finishes every 5-7 years. The marine-grade anodised aluminium has been flawless for 18 months now – looks brand new. Should have done this years ago.”
– J. Williams, Camps Bay, Cape Town (Project 3)
Read more reviews and testimonials from our clients.
📋 Project Types in Our Portfolio
Our aluminium installation before after gallery includes these project categories:
- Full house window replacement: Complete home transformations (most common – 45% of projects)
- Steel to aluminium conversion: Modernising older homes (25% of projects) – see conversion guide
- Coastal property upgrades: Marine-grade installations for salt protection (15% of projects)
- Energy efficiency upgrades: Thermal break + double glazing for existing homes (10% of projects)
- Bi-fold and sliding door installations: Opening up homes to outdoor spaces (5% of projects)
Geographic coverage: We’ve completed projects across Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, and beyond. Whether you’re in Johannesburg or Cape Town, quality installations are available.
🚀 Your Transformation Starts Here
Inspired by these before and after aluminium window installation photos? Your home could be next. The process is straightforward:
- Request free quotes from verified aluminium specialists – aluminium services page
- Schedule free site inspection – accurate measurements and recommendations – free inspections
- Review detailed quotes – compare specifications, warranties, and pricing
- Choose your installer – based on quality, not just price
- Watch the transformation – typically 2-14 days depending on project size
- Enjoy your new windows – for 30-50 years with minimal maintenance
What you need to start:
- Basic window measurements (or use our measuring guide or get free site inspection)
- Your location (suburb/city) – we’ll match you with local specialists
- Budget range (get quotes to understand realistic costs)
- Project timeline (when you want the work done)
Read our buying checklist before starting.
Ready for Your Own Before & After Transformation?
Get free quotes from verified aluminium specialists who’ve completed hundreds of successful projects across South Africa.
📞 Call us: 073 138 4726 to discuss your aluminium window project.
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❓ Frequently Asked Questions About Aluminium Installation Projects
How long does a typical aluminium window replacement take?
A typical 3-bedroom house (10-14 windows) takes 2-3 days for retrofit installation. Full-frame replacement (removing old frames completely) takes 1-3 weeks including finishing work (brickwork, plastering, painting). Individual window replacement takes 1-3 hours per window. The aluminium installation before after timeline depends on project complexity.
How much can I expect to save on energy bills after aluminium window replacement?
Based on our project showcase data, homeowners save 35-45% on heating and cooling costs after installing thermal break aluminium windows with double glazing. For a typical Johannesburg or Pretoria home spending R2,500-3,500 monthly on climate control, that’s R875-1,575 saved per month. Payback period is typically 3-7 years depending on energy prices and window quality.
Are the before and after photos in this gallery from real South African projects?
Yes – every photo in this gallery shows real before and after aluminium window installation photos from actual South African homes and businesses. We’ve worked with clients across Gauteng, Western Cape, and KwaZulu-Natal. The transformations are real, documented, and verified.
What’s the most dramatic transformation you’ve seen?
The steel-to-aluminium conversions (Project 2) are often the most dramatic. Old, rusted, drafty steel frames replaced with modern, sealed, secure aluminium windows transform not just the appearance but the feel of a home. Homeowners describe it as moving from a “dated, drafty property” to a “modern, comfortable home” overnight. The elimination of rust maintenance alone is life-changing.
Can I see more project examples for my specific area?
Yes – request quotes through ServiceLink SA and we can connect you with local aluminium specialists who have completed projects in your suburb. They can share relevant portfolio examples from your area. We also have area-specific service pages for Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Johannesburg, and Cape Town.
Do you have examples of coastal property transformations?
Project 3 in this project showcase shows a Cape Town coastal transformation. We have many more examples from Cape Town, Durban, and the Garden Route. Coastal projects require marine-grade finishes and 316 stainless steel hardware – our coastal guide has full specifications. Request quotes through ServiceLink SA for coastal-specific portfolio examples.
How much does a typical full house aluminium window replacement cost?
Based on our completed projects: retrofit installation for a 3-bedroom house (12-14 windows) costs R42,000-72,000 for standard aluminium, R60,000-102,000 for thermal break. Full-frame replacement costs R66,000-132,000+. Double glazing adds 30-60%. Bi-fold doors (Project 5) cost R25,000-50,000 per 3m opening. Get free quotes through ServiceLink SA for accurate pricing for your specific home.
Can I live in my home during aluminium window installation?
Yes – most homeowners remain in their homes during installation. Retrofit installations (Projects 1, 4) are minimally disruptive – windows are replaced one at a time, so your home remains secure throughout. Full-frame replacements (Projects 2, 3) are more disruptive with dust and noise. Discuss your situation with installers – they can recommend the best approach for your occupancy needs.
How do I know if my home is suitable for retrofit or needs full-frame replacement?
Retrofit works if your existing frames are structurally sound (no rot, rust, or damage). Full-frame replacement is needed for damaged frames, steel-to-aluminium conversions (Project 2), or when changing window sizes. A professional site inspection (free through ServiceLink SA) will determine the best approach. Read our comparison guide for detailed differences.
What standards ensure quality in these installations?
All installations in our portfolio follow SANS 10400 installation standards and use SABS quality standards for profiles and finishes. Professional installers should be able to provide SABS certification and explain their compliance with building regulations. ServiceLink SA verifies these standards before connecting you with installers.
📚 Official resources & standards referenced:
- SANS 10400 – South African National Standard for installation standards, building regulations, and compliance requirements.
- SABS – South African Bureau of Standards for quality standards, product certification, and compliance verification.
All projects shown are real South African installations. Results vary based on property conditions and product specifications. Always consult qualified professionals for your specific project.
Written by: ServiceLink SA Research Team
Aluminium Installation & Home Transformation Specialists
The ServiceLink SA Research Team has documented hundreds of aluminium installation before after projects across South Africa – from Johannesburg to Cape Town to Durban. This gallery represents real transformations achieved by verified professionals in our network. Our team has personally verified these projects, interviewed homeowners, and documented the results. We share this project showcase to inspire homeowners and demonstrate what quality aluminium installation can achieve – improved energy efficiency, security, aesthetics, and property value.
For more information about aluminium windows and installation, explore our related resources: aluminium windows overview, replacement guide, steel conversion guide, conversion costs, material comparison, and buying checklist. Read client experiences in our reviews and testimonials. Our what is ServiceLink SA and ServiceLink SA review pages explain our matching service. Find services in your area: Gauteng, Western Cape, KwaZulu-Natal, Johannesburg, and Cape Town. For related home improvement services, see our building construction and tiling services guides.