Black aluminium windows are one of the sharpest upgrades you can make to a home, but "black" covers more ground than you might think. There are different shades, finishes and dual-colour options, and getting the choice right is what separates a smart, considered look from one that feels a bit flat. Here is how to choose the right colour for your black aluminium windows.
Why aluminium suits black so well
Aluminium is the natural home for a black frame. The colour is powder coated on, which bonds a tough, even layer of colour to the metal. That gives you a deep, consistent black with no brush marks, plus the slim sightlines aluminium is known for. The result is a crisp, architectural look that suits modern homes and sympathetic period restorations alike.
Our aluminium windows come in a full range of blacks and dark shades, so the decision is less about whether you can get the colour and more about which version is right.
True black or a softer dark?
The first choice is how dark you actually want to go:
- Jet black (RAL 9005). The boldest option. Sharp, graphic and high contrast, ideal against white render or pale brick. It makes the strongest statement.
- Anthracite grey (RAL 7016). Not quite black, a deep warm charcoal. Softer and a touch more forgiving, especially on already-dark houses where true black can disappear.
- Graphite and slate greys. Sit between the two, cool and modern without the full weight of jet black.
If you love the black look but worry it will feel heavy, anthracite is the safe middle ground. On a light-walled contemporary home, though, true black is hard to beat.
Matt, satin or textured?
Finish changes the mood as much as the shade:
- Matt. Flat and contemporary, hides fingerprints and reflections. The most popular choice in 2026.
- Satin. A subtle sheen that catches light and feels a little softer.
- Textured or fine-grain. A slightly tactile surface that is very hard-wearing and disguises minor marks well.
Most people go matt or fine-textured for that modern, low-glare finish. It is worth asking to see a physical sample, as photos never quite capture the difference.
The modern looks black creates
Black aluminium is a design tool as much as a window. A few of the looks it delivers:
- Slim, gallery-style glazing. The thin frames maximise glass, so views and light dominate rather than the frame.
- High-contrast render homes. Black frames against white or pale walls give that clean, architect-designed feel.
- Industrial and Crittall-style. Black frames with slim glazing bars echo old steel windows, a look that suits both warehouse conversions and character homes.
The same black works beautifully on larger openings too. If you are opening up the back of the house, matching black aluminium sliding and bi-fold doors tie the whole rear elevation together.
Inside and out, or dual colour
Aluminium makes dual-colour frames straightforward. Popular combinations include:
- Black outside, white or grey inside, keeping interiors bright and neutral.
- Black inside and out, for a joined-up scheme alongside black internal doors and matt hardware.
Because the colour is powder coated per face, dual-colour costs a little more, so factor it in early.
Black on period and heritage homes
Black frames are not just for modern builds. On older York properties, slim black aluminium can echo original steel or timber windows far better than chunky uPVC. For listed or conservation-area homes, our heritage aluminium windows and doors are designed to sit sympathetically in period settings. Always check the current rules with your local authority first, as colour and style can be restricted.
What black aluminium windows cost in 2026
Aluminium costs more than uPVC, and prices swing with size, glazing and finish, so treat these as rough guides and get a quote for your home. As of 2026, black aluminium casement windows commonly run from around £900 to £1,600 or more per window supplied and fitted, with large or dual-colour units higher again. The colour itself adds little; the material and finish drive the price.
Getting the choice right
The short version: pick jet black for maximum contrast on a light house, anthracite if you want a softer, safer dark, and a matt or textured finish for that modern low-glare look. See a real sample against your own brick or render before you commit, and think about matching doors so the whole exterior reads as one scheme.
FAQs
What is the darkest black for aluminium windows?
Jet black, RAL 9005, is the darkest standard option and gives the boldest, highest-contrast look. Anthracite grey, RAL 7016, is a softer deep charcoal that some people prefer, especially on already-dark houses.
Is matt or gloss better for black windows?
Matt is the most popular choice in 2026 because it looks contemporary, reduces glare and hides fingerprints. Satin adds a subtle sheen, while textured finishes are very hard-wearing. It comes down to the look you want.
Do black aluminium windows fade?
Good powder coating resists fading very well. It is built to handle UV and Yorkshire weather, so with occasional cleaning the black should stay deep and even for many years.
Can I have black outside and a different colour inside?
Yes. Dual-colour aluminium frames are common, with black outside and white or grey inside a popular combination. Because each face is coated separately it costs a little more than a single colour.
Do black aluminium windows suit older houses?
They can suit them very well. Slim black aluminium can echo original steel windows and flatter period homes. For listed or conservation-area properties, use a heritage-style range and check the current rules with your local authority.
Want to see the full range of blacks, finishes and matching doors? Download our latest brochure, or request a free quote and we will come and take a look.