Aluminium or PVC windows for a home by the sea?

Replacing windows and doors is one of the most effective ways to improve comfort in a Spanish home. Original windows in many coastal properties are single-glazed or have aluminium frames without a thermal break, which lets in heat in summer and cold in winter. The question many owners ask is whether to choose aluminium or PVC.

Aluminium

Modern aluminium systems with a thermal break (often called RPT in Spain) separate the inner and outer parts of the frame to reduce heat transfer. Aluminium is strong and rigid, which makes it well suited to large sliding doors and slim frames with a lot of glass. For coastal properties, the quality of the surface treatment is important: ask whether the coating is certified for seaside environments.

PVC

PVC frames insulate well and need little maintenance. They are a good choice for standard window sizes and for homes where insulation and sound reduction are priorities. In very sunny locations, choose profiles designed for strong UV exposure, and be aware that dark colours absorb more heat.

Glazing matters as much as the frame

Double glazing, low-emissivity coatings and laminated safety glass affect comfort, security and noise as much as the frame material. On sun-facing elevations, solar control glass can reduce heat gain.

Large openings and terraces

If you want to open a living room to the terrace with large sliding or folding doors, aluminium often allows slimmer frames and bigger panels. For bedrooms and bathrooms, PVC may give a better balance of insulation and cost.

Communities and appearance

In apartment buildings and some urbanisations, the community may require windows to match the existing façade in colour and division. Check the rules before choosing.

Installation

A good window installed badly will not perform. The connection to the wall, sealing and the treatment of sills and reveals all matter, especially where wind-driven rain is common.

Questions to ask

• Is the aluminium profile thermally broken?
• Is the coating suitable for coastal environments?
• What glazing is included, and what are the alternatives?
• How are existing frames removed and the openings finished?

Read more about our aluminium and PVC work, see custom windows and doors in our reference archive, or explore window projects in Cabo de Palos and La Mata.