PVC, Aluminium or Wood? Window Materials Compared

Anyone planning new windows first faces the question of material: PVC, aluminium or wood? Each material has its strengths – in thermal insulation, maintenance, appearance and, of course, price. In this comparison we show how the three options differ and which homes they suit best.

PVC windows: the all-rounder

PVC windows are the best-selling windows in Germany and Poland – and for good reason. Modern multi-chamber profiles with a frame depth of 76 to 82 mm and three sealing levels insulate excellently. With triple glazing, systems such as VEKA Softline 82 MD reach Uw values down to 0.74 W/(m²K). PVC windows are easy to care for, durable and available in many colours and wood-effect finishes.

• Advantages: excellent value for money, good insulation, hardly any maintenance.
• Limitations: very large glass areas and extremely slim sightlines are easier to achieve with aluminium.

Aluminium windows: slim and strong

Aluminium is extremely strong. This makes narrow frames, large glass areas, lift-and-slide doors and entire façades possible. Thermally broken profiles, for example from Aluprof, now achieve very good insulation values. The surface is powder-coated – in any RAL colour or with a wood effect – and is highly weather-resistant.

• Advantages: modern look, large formats, long service life, low maintenance.
• Limitations: higher price than PVC.

Wooden windows: natural and homely

Wooden windows create a warm atmosphere and are often the first choice for older buildings and listed properties. Systems such as AFH 68, AFH 78 and AFH 92 in spruce, pine, oak or meranti combine timber with modern double or triple glazing and aluminium weather bars. Wood needs a little more care: depending on exposure, the surface should be checked and refreshed every few years.

• Advantages: natural look, good insulation, ideal for listed buildings.
• Limitations: more maintenance, more sensitive to severe weathering.

Comparison at a glance

Which material suits your home?

For most detached houses, PVC windows offer the best overall package of insulation, price and low maintenance. If you are planning large glazed fronts, slim profiles or a modern façade, aluminium is the right choice. For older buildings, timber-framed houses and listed buildings, wooden windows are often required for design or even legal reasons. Many customers combine materials: PVC windows in the living areas and an aluminium lift-and-slide door to the terrace.

You will find more details about the systems on our pages PVC windows, aluminium windows and wooden windows. We compare PVC profiles in the article VEKA, Salamander or Aluplast.