PVC or aluminium? How to choose the right windows
The real differences between PVC and aluminium joinery: insulation, price, durability and which suits your project.
The most common question we get at ALTRANS is “which is better, PVC or aluminium?”. The correct answer is: it depends on the project. Both materials are excellent, but for different situations.
PVC – maximum insulation at a fair price
PVC offers the best thermal-insulation-to-price ratio. Profiles with 5–6 chambers and low-e double glazing significantly reduce heat loss, making them the ideal choice for apartments and houses. Heat-welded profiles also ensure excellent sealing against water, wind and dust.
Aluminium – for large openings and façades
Aluminium is mechanically stronger and allows slim profiles, so it is ideal for shopfronts, façades, curtain walls and high-traffic doors. Thermal-break profiles (polyamide) reach insulation close to PVC, eliminating the metal's thermal bridge.
In short
- Best price and insulation for a home → PVC
- Large openings, shopfronts or façades → aluminium with thermal break
- Technical or interior spaces with no thermal requirements → aluminium without thermal break
Frequently asked questions
Is PVC weaker than aluminium?
No. For ordinary residential windows, reinforced PVC offers enough strength and better insulation at a lower price. Aluminium becomes advantageous for very large openings.
Which lasts longer?
Both exceed 25–30 years if installed correctly and maintained. Electrostatically painted aluminium keeps its appearance with no special maintenance.
