Wood, uPVC, aluminium and steel all have a place. For a Kerala house — monsoon, humidity, termites and security — here is how they compare.
| GI steel | Wood | Aluminium | uPVC | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Termites | Not affected | At risk | Not affected | Not affected |
| Security | High strength, grill built in | Good | Grill added separately | Grill added separately |
| Monsoon & humidity | Zinc + paint protection | Swells, needs polish | Good | Good |
| Custom sizes & shapes | Any size, arches | Any size | Limited by profiles | Limited by profiles |
| Upkeep | Repaint every few years | Polish regularly | Low | Low |
Steel
The strongest frame for its size, with the grill built into it. Termite-proof, made to any size or shape, and it does not move with the seasons. It needs paint on the weather side every few years.
Wood
The traditional look many families love. Good timber is expensive, termites are a constant risk, and wood swells and shrinks through the monsoon — shutters start to stick.
Aluminium
Light, slim and well suited to sliding systems and large glass. Security grills are a separate item, and custom shapes depend on the profile system.
uPVC
No rust, little upkeep and good sealing against dust and noise. Large openings need reinforcement, security grills are separate, and colours are limited.
A common mix
Many Kerala homes choose steel door frames and steel windows on the outside for strength and security, with uPVC or aluminium where large glass or sliding doors are wanted.