Anthracite Grey Windows Trend & Guide | Window Fitters

Anthracite Grey Windows: Why They're the UK's Most Popular Choice

For decades, white uPVC was the undisputed standard for replacement windows across the UK. However, over the last ten years, a major shift in home exterior design has occurred. Today, Anthracite Grey (officially designated as RAL 7016) is the most sought-after frame color for both uPVC and aluminium window installations. This guide explores the reasons behind this design trend, the technology behind grey frames, and how to style them for your property.

Expert Reviewed by Marian Gheorghe, Head Window Fitter — Last reviewed: July 2026

What is Anthracite Grey (RAL 7016)?

RAL is a standardized European color matching system used in paints, plastics, and industrial coatings. RAL 7016, known as Anthracite Grey, is a deep, dark grey color with subtle blue undertones. It mimics the color of anthracite coal. It is a neutral, sophisticated shade that sits between light grey and black, offering a modern appearance without the harshness of pure black.

Why is Anthracite Grey So Popular?

The rise of Anthracite Grey is driven by several design factors:

1. Modern, Architectural Aesthetic: Grey frames mimic the look of industrial steel windows, giving properties a contemporary architectural feel. This is popular in modern rear extensions and flat conversions.
2. Framing the View: White window frames catch the eye and draw attention to the frame itself. In contrast, dark Anthracite Grey frames recede visually, drawing the eye past the frame and highlighting the view of the garden or landscape.
3. Harmonious Contrast: Anthracite Grey provides a pleasing contrast against various building materials. It complements red brickwork, natural stone cladding, white renders, and timber cladding.
4. Hiding Dirt: White frames show dirt, rain streaks, and pollen quickly, requiring regular cleaning. Grey frames hide environmental dirt and watermarks far better, keeping windows looking clean for longer.

The Technology: Foil Laminates vs. Powder Coating

How the grey finish is applied depends on your choice of frame material:

• uPVC Windows (Foil Laminates): uPVC profiles are naturally white. To achieve an Anthracite Grey finish, manufacturers apply a heavy-duty, textured foil laminate to the frame during extrusion. This foil is heat-bonded to the plastic, creating a durable, scratch-resistant surface with a subtle woodgrain texture. Foils can be applied to the outside only (with white inside to keep rooms bright) or to both sides.
• Aluminium Windows (Powder Coating): Aluminium frames are colored using a powder coating process. The raw metal is sprayed with electrically charged dry polyester powder and baked in an oven to cure. This creates a hard, uniform, matte or satin finish that resists scratching, fading, and peeling. Powder-coated aluminium has a lifespan of 40+ years with minimal maintenance.

Styling Tips for Anthracite Grey Windows

To maximize the design impact of grey frames on your property, consider the following:

• Matching Hardware: Pair grey windows with modern hardware, such as brushed chrome, satin steel, or matte black handles and locking plates. Avoid traditional bright brass handles, which can clash with the cool grey undertones.
• Complementary Doors: If you install Anthracite Grey windows, consider matching your front door or rear bifold doors. An Anthracite Grey composite entrance door or bifold patio doorset creates a unified appearance.
• Interior Frame Color: If you are concerned that dark frames will make your interior rooms feel smaller or darker, choose \"grey-on-white\" uPVC profiles. This gives you modern Anthracite Grey on the outside of the house, while keeping clean, bright White frames inside your rooms.

At Window Fitters Ltd, we supply and install a wide range of Anthracite Grey windows and doors. Our uPVC profiles from Profile 22, Deceuninck, Liniar, and Rehau are available in foiled RAL 7016, and our aluminium casement and bifold doorsets are powder-coated in matte Anthracite Grey as standard.

About the Author: Marian Gheorghe

Head Window Fitter & Active Director, Window Fitters Ltd

Marian Gheorghe is the Head Window Fitter and Director of Window Fitters Ltd. He has spent over 15 years overseeing window styling and installation projects across London and Surrey, managing the specification of foiled uPVC and powder-coated aluminium systems.

Connect on LinkedIn → Expert Reviewed: July 2026

Anthracite Grey FAQs

Is Anthracite Grey more expensive than white uPVC?

Yes. Because of the additional manufacturing processes required for foiled laminates, Anthracite Grey uPVC frames typically cost 10% to 15% more than standard white frames. For aluminium windows, Anthracite Grey is often a standard color option, carrying no extra charge compared to white powder coating.

Do grey window frames fade in the sun?

High-quality foiled uPVC and powder-coated aluminium frames are highly UV-resistant. While cheap, unbranded frames may fade over decades, profiles from established brands like Profile 22 or Deceuninck come with guarantees against color fading.

Can I get grey window sills?

Yes. When we install Anthracite Grey windows, we fit matching foiled grey sills (available in standard projections of 150mm) to ensure a clean, professional finish.