Firstly to replace a timber window with aluminium isn't necessarily a good move. The existing windows are probably around 40+ years old so have done a great job so far. While maintenance is required by oiling and/or painting they still have lasted quite well. 40+ is a long time exposed to the elements. Timber performs thermally much better than an aluminium frame. Even the modern thermally broken frames are probably only line ball at best with timber. Repainting a timber window is easier than changing colour on an aluminium one. So far changing to aluminium there is not really any obvious advantage...... The advantage with standard aluminium is really only the cost to purchase, yet a thermally broken is quite expensive...... I regularly change aluminium windows back to timber on many renovations due to the poor quality of the older aluminium frames and timber looks so darn good. Use timber windows with a high quality glass such as Low E, Laminated or double glazing. This will suit the house and perform a lot better. I personally like the existing frame and configurations so would probably only upgrade the glass with a high performance version.

http://www.ecostardoubleglazing.com.au/upvc-double-glazed-windows/

Gee, they are both lovely and completely different to one another. The Georgian Bluffs contains veining which seems to impart more character, while the Ocean Foam appears cleaner, crisper and plainer. It boils down to a matter of taste and which complements the overall look and design of your kitchen. IF you want your benchtop material to be the main attraction/feature in the kitchen, my opinion is the GB would achieve this better Have you visited a kitchen display centre or a Caesarstone display centre? Seeing each up close and in an actual kitchen would be beneficial. A large slab will give you a better idea than a small sample piece.

Hi Hilary, We are about to instal all new Blackbutt timber windows and have been researching this. We have decided that we will use Cutek which is a timber oil. It seems to be easy to apply, just brush or wipe on. Cutek also have a product that can renew the wood if it has weathered and greyed, so its easy to rejuventae the timber without sanding. as it is an oil it will darken the appearance of the timber, but some colour in a stain or oil is advised by timber experts to provide some UV protection for the timber, to avaoid it greying. We have used Cutek on a deck and a pergola and have been happy with it. Cheers