02 / 12 / 2025
The glazing industry is heading into 2026 with clear momentum. Homeowners are becoming more selective, developers want tighter control over performance, and installers are looking for products that make their lives easier from quote to completion. The conversations happening on site and in showrooms tell the same story. Customers want glazing that looks sharper, performs better and stands the test of time, and the trade wants suppliers who can help them deliver exactly that without complication.
Regulation, technology and design trends are accelerating at the same time, which means the businesses that win next year will be the ones that stay ahead of expectations and respond to what people genuinely value in their homes. Aluminium growth, composite door popularity, the continued strength of uPVC, and the push for greater efficiency are all shaping the year ahead in clear and noticeable ways.
Take a look at the glazing industry trends set to shape 2026, from the shifts installers are already feeling on the ground to the ones that will influence the year ahead.
uPVC remains the reliable foundation
Before any talk of new materials or emerging tech, uPVC continues to be the backbone of the glazing industry, and that will not change in 2026. Installers rely on its predictable performance, strong margins, and quick, straightforward installation. Homeowners continue to see uPVC as a cost-effective way to improve comfort and bring down energy bills, and that steady demand gives the trade a stable platform to build on.
The big shift is in expectations. Customers want far more from their uPVC windows than the basics. They ask about thermal performance, noise reduction, colour choice and how well their frames will hold up over time. Installers are seeing more demand for upgraded glass, modern profiles, textured finishes and flush designs that offer more kerb appeal without straying into premium-price territory.
Aluminium continues to accelerate
The demand for slimmer sightlines and a more contemporary finish has pushed aluminium into projects that would previously have defaulted to uPVC.
Three aluminium window trends will define next year:
- A broader product range
Aluminium is no longer limited to bifolds and patios. Modern casements, flush systems, tilt and turn windows and heritage aluminium ranges mean installers can quote full-property aluminium packages with confidence.
- Improved lead times
Supply chain improvements mean turnaround times are faster and more predictable. This makes aluminium more viable for mid-market and refurbishment projects where speed matters.
- Better thermal performance
With tighter energy regulations, homeowners want reassurance that aluminium can meet the same standards they expect from uPVC. Modern thermally broken systems now comfortably deliver this.
For installers, aluminium offers a chance to secure higher-value projects and meet growing demand for premium design without sacrificing performance.
Composite doors are a homeowner’s favourite
Composite doors continue to dominate entrance door sales thanks to their durability, insulation and security. The big trend for 2026 is design choice. Homeowners are looking for stronger colours, modern styles and more distinctive hardware, and customers are arriving with clear design ideas long before they ask for a quote.
Security remains a priority, and PAS 24 certification, upgraded locks and reinforced cores are influential at the decision stage. Composite doors will remain a strong, margin-friendly product for the trade next year.
Energy efficiency becomes a consistent priority
Energy efficient window trends for 2026 are all about giving homeowners stronger performance without adding complexity. Rising energy prices and tighter Building Regulations mean property owners are more focused on long-term savings rather than short-term fixes.
The shift is already clear. Customers ask more detailed questions about glass specification, U-values, warm edge spacers and air tightness. They want reassurance they are choosing a product that lowers running costs and protects their home from draughts, damp and noise.
Expect three behaviours in 2026:
- Greater demand for triple glazing
Not every home will switch to triple glazing throughout, but many homeowners are choosing triple glazing for bedrooms, street-facing rooms or anywhere with noticeable noise.
- More interest in whole-house performance
Rather than upgrading one window at a time, many households are planning broader refurbishments that tackle heat loss across the property.
- A push for better thermal performance in aluminium
As aluminium windows continue to grow, homeowners expect them to deliver energy performance on par with what they have been used to from modern uPVC.
Design expectations keep rising
Homeowners want glazing that enhances the look of their home as much as its performance. Heritage aluminium, dual colours, textured finishes and slimmer frames will continue shaping the market. The desire for a cohesive, whole-house design means installers who can deliver consistent styles across windows, doors and patios doors, will have a clear advantage.
Key design-led glazing industry trends include:
- A wider move towards heritage aluminium
Steel-look glazing is becoming a staple in both modern and period properties. Homeowners love the character, the slim lines and the versatility of matching windows and doors across different rooms.
- More colour confidence
Bold colours, textured finishes and dual-colour frames are gaining traction. Anthracite grey still dominates, but more tonal greens, warm neutrals and black are becoming more popular in both aluminium and composite doors.
Consistency across the whole property
Customers want a cohesive look. Installers who can offer matching windows, doors, patios and rooflights in the same colour family and finish will have a stronger advantage when quoting complete home refurbishments.
Design expectations are rising, and installers who show realistic visuals, samples and whole-house solutions will win more business.
Installer-focused market trends for 2026
Speed, reliability and support matter more than ever. Installers want suppliers who keep life simple with clear lead times, strong communication and a full, consistent product range. Margin protection will be a priority and products that reduce fitting time or minimise call backs will be in high demand.
Looking ahead to 2026, the glazing sector is being shaped by customers who expect more from their homes and installers who expect more from their suppliers. Aluminium is growing across every project type, composite doors remain a staple, and energy efficiency is now the baseline for every purchase.
The industry will continue to evolve quickly, but the message is consistent. Success in 2026 belongs to the companies that listen closely to what customers want, with dependable solutions and glazing that performs well for years to come. That means higher spec as standard CLUB of products that work seamlessly together, matched with a level of reliability that keeps jobs running smoothly from the first measure to the final sign off.
If you are planning ahead for 2026 and want products, support and service that help every job run smoothly, get in touch with the Framexpress team.