Short answer: for most coastal homes, PVC wins on insulation and price, and salt air does not corrode it. Thermal-break aluminium makes sense for very large openings, slim-frame sliders and minimalist looks. The right choice depends on each opening, its orientation and how the room is used.
We install both materials (Kömmerling, Salamander and Veka in PVC; Cortizo and Schüco in aluminium), so this comparison is not defending a catalogue: it sums up what we recommend every day on the Costa Blanca.
Quick comparison
| Criterion | PVC | Thermal-break aluminium |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal insulation | Excellent (multi-chamber) | Good with thermal break |
| Acoustic insulation | Excellent | Good |
| Installed price | €480 - 720/m² | €620 - 1,150/m² |
| Lifespan on the coast | 40+ years, no corrosion | 50+ years with marine coating |
| Large openings / sliders | Up to 2.4 m high | Up to 3.5 m, slim frame |
| Looks | Frame 76-110 mm | Slim frame 45-60 mm |
When to choose PVC
- Your main home, where you want to shut out heat, cold and noise.
- Seafront properties: salt air does not affect PVC.
- Tight budget with maximum efficiency per euro.
- Bedrooms and living rooms where comfort rules.
When to choose aluminium
- Large-format sliders and penthouses with views.
- Very slim profiles for minimalist design.
- Special RAL colours and finishes.
- Openings taller than 2.4 metres.
The common mistake: deciding on price alone
Cheap 60 mm PVC without steel reinforcement, or aluminium without a thermal break, wipe out the savings within 2-3 summers of air conditioning. Always compare the exact profile (Uw), the glazing and the hardware, not just the material.
Want to know what suits your home?
We tell you opening by opening after a free survey, with a fixed quote for PVC, aluminium or mixed within 24 hours.
See PVC and aluminium windowsFrequently asked questions
What is best on the seafront?+
PVC, or aluminium with a marine-grade coating (Qualicoat Seaside). PVC does not corrode in salt air; untreated standard aluminium can degrade.
Does PVC yellow in the sun?+
Quality European profiles (Kömmerling, Salamander, Veka) carry UV protection and stay white for decades. Yellowing was a problem of old, low-grade profiles.
What about mixed PVC-aluminium windows?+
They combine a PVC interior (insulation) with an aluminium exterior (colour and resistance). A good option for villas with visible joinery, priced between the two materials.