The definitive guide: PVC vs aluminium vs wood for your entrance door
Which material is best for an exterior door? We analyse thermal insulation, security, maintenance, durability and price of the three main materials. With real technical data and prices updated to 2026.
Multi-chamber PVC is the material that offers the best thermal insulation of the three common materials for exterior doors. An 82 mm PVC profile with 7 chambers achieves thermal transmittance values (Uf) of 0.95 W/m²K, compared to 1.5–2.0 W/m²K for aluminium with TBB and 1.8–2.5 W/m²K for solid wood.
Unlike wood, PVC requires no maintenance (no varnishing, sanding or woodworm treatment). And unlike aluminium without TBB, PVC does not conduct cold or heat. With internal galvanised steel reinforcement and multipoint locks, security is equivalent or superior to any other material.
This table summarises the key technical differences between the three materials for exterior doors. Data based on standard profiles available on the Spanish market in 2026.
| Feature | PVC | Aluminium TBB |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal insulation (Uf) | 0.95–1.3 W/m²K | 1.5–2.0 W/m²K |
| Security | Multipoint 3–5 points + steel | Multipoint 3–7 points |
| Maintenance | None | None |
| Durability | 40+ years | 50+ years |
| Indicative price (installed) | From €690 | From €1,100 |
| Finishes | White, wood-effect foils, RAL colours | Any RAL, anodised |
| Recyclability | 100% recyclable (up to 7 times) | 100% recyclable |
Conclusion: PVC offers the best insulation-price-maintenance ratio for most homes. Aluminium TBB is preferable for large-format doors or contemporary design. Wood is an aesthetic option for heritage restorations where the original material is required.
Standard profile with Uf of 1.3 W/m²K. Suitable for mild climate zones (Mediterranean coast). Systems: Veka Softline 70, Kömmerling EuroFutur Elegance 70, Ecoven Plus S70, Deceuninck Zendow#neo 70.
Best performance-price balance with Uf of 1.0–1.1 W/m²K. The best seller in Spain. Systems: Kömmerling 76, Deceuninck Elegant 76, Ecoven Plus S76. Full Cover 3D foiling available.
Maximum insulation with Uf of 0.95–1.0 W/m²K. Suitable for Passivhaus certification. Systems: Veka Softline 82, Kömmerling 88, Ecoven Plus S82. Triple weatherseal.
All profiles include galvanised steel reinforcement inside for structural rigidity. Multipoint locks with 3 to 5 locking points. Adjustable 3D concealed hinges available. Optional laminated safety glass (SPH1 or P2A).
Multi-chamber PVC has the lowest thermal conductivity: 0.16 W/mK versus 160 W/mK for aluminium. Even with thermal break, aluminium cannot match PVC in insulation.
Internal galvanised steel reinforcement + multipoint lock + optional laminated glass. The combination offers intrusion resistance certified to European standard EN 1627.
Latest generation foils (such as Kömmerling's Full Cover 3D) cover all 3 visible faces of the profile. Available in wood effect, RAL colours and two-tone finishes.
PVC does not rust, rot, or need varnish or paint. Simply clean with water and neutral soap. Service life over 40 years without losing performance.
An 82 mm PVC door can reduce heat loss through the entrance by 60% compared to an old wooden door. This translates directly into heating and air conditioning savings.
Window and door PVC can be recycled up to 7 times without losing mechanical properties. Major manufacturers (Veka, Rehau) have active collection and recycling programmes.
| PVC door type | From | Up to |
|---|---|---|
| PVC 70 mm standard white | €690 | €950 |
| PVC 76 mm wood-effect foil | €1,100 | €1,600 |
| PVC 82 mm Passivhaus | €1,600 | €2,200 |
| PVC 88 mm premium (Kömmerling 88) | €2,000 | €3,000 |
| PVC with HPL decorative panel | €1,400 | €2,500 |
Prices include VAT, supply and installation. Final price depends on dimensions, finishes, glazing and hardware. Request a personalised quote.
We work with leading European PVC profile manufacturers: Kömmerling (76 mm and 88 mm, greenline technology), Veka (Softline 70, 76 and 82), Ecoven Plus (S70, S76 and S82 with AENOR certification) and Deceuninck (Elegant 76, Zendow#neo with ThermoFibra). All manufacture in Spain or have plants in Europe.
Yes. PVC exterior doors have galvanised steel reinforcement inside the profile, giving them rigidity and mechanical resistance comparable to aluminium. PVC is resistant to moisture, salinity and UV rays. Service life over 40 years.
For most homes, PVC offers better value for money: superior thermal insulation (Uf 0.95 vs 1.5 W/m²K), lower price and zero maintenance. Aluminium TBB is preferable for large-format doors (over 120 cm wide) or when a minimalist design is required.
No, if they are certified quality. European PVC profiles use calcium-zinc UV stabilisers that guarantee whiteness for over 40 years.
A standard PVC exterior door (70 mm, white) installed starts from €690. Mid-range models (76 mm, wood foil) range from €1,100–1,600. Passivhaus models (82–88 mm) are between €1,600–3,000.
Yes, though with limitations. 82–88 mm PVC profiles allow doors up to 110 cm wide and 230 cm tall without issues. For larger sizes, aluminium TBB is recommended.
For areas with mild winters (Mediterranean coast), a 70–76 mm profile is sufficient. For cold areas or maximum energy savings, 82–88 mm (Passivhaus) is the best investment.
Yes. The internal galvanised steel reinforcement prevents frame deformation. Multipoint locks (3–5 locking points) make forced entry extremely difficult. Can be supplemented with laminated safety glass.
Installation takes one day (3–5 hours of work). Total lead time from measurement to installation is 3–5 weeks.
We advise you at no obligation on the best profile and system for your entrance door. Free quote within 24 hours.
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