Which metal window material typically requires thermal breaks?

Aluminum is the metal window material that typically requires thermal breaks due to its high thermal conductivity. When aluminum frames are used in windows, they can act as conduits for heat transfer, resulting in significant energy loss. To mitigate this issue, thermal breaks—insulating materials placed between the interior and exterior sections of the frame—are incorporated. These breaks help reduce heat transfer, improving energy efficiency and condensation resistance.

In contrast, while steel, bronze, and chrome can also be used in window framing, they do not usually require thermal breaks to the same extent as aluminum. Steel frames are often heavy and have lower thermal conductivity than aluminum, though they may still require some form of insulation. Bronze is typically used for its aesthetic qualities and corrosion resistance, and chrome is more commonly used as a finish rather than a primary structural window material. Thus, the unique properties of aluminum necessitate the use of thermal breaks to enhance performance in terms of energy efficiency.