Material price comparison · 2026
uPVC vs Aluminium Windows Cost UK
Aluminium usually costs more than standard uPVC, but the real gap depends on size, glazing, finish and the aluminium system. Comparing the same nominal opening is more useful than comparing unrelated headline prices.
Quick price answer: For a medium 1200 × 1200 mm example, the current model centres around £523 fitted for standard white uPVC and about £1,066 for an aluminium casement.
Current price examples
These are practical market or calculator benchmarks, not binding installer quotations. Exact dimensions, specification, access and opening condition can move the final price.
Why aluminium carries a premium
Aluminium systems use different profiles, fabrication, hardware and finishes, and are often sold into a more premium part of the market. Slimmer sightlines and large openings can be key reasons homeowners choose it despite the higher price.
uPVC remains the budget baseline
Standard uPVC generally gives the lowest fitted cost for ordinary domestic casement windows. Flush, coloured and heritage uPVC can narrow the price gap with aluminium.
Like-for-like warning: do not compare a basic white uPVC casement with a very large premium aluminium design and assume the difference is caused by material alone. Match size, opening layout and glazing where possible.
Related price guides
Compare the closest related costs, then use the calculator for your own specification.
Questions people ask
Are aluminium windows more expensive than uPVC?
Usually yes. In the current medium-window model example, aluminium centres around £1,066 fitted versus about £523 for standard white uPVC.
Why choose aluminium if it costs more?
Common reasons include slimmer frames, large-opening capability, finish options and the desired appearance.
Can premium uPVC cost close to aluminium?
Yes. Flush, coloured and heritage uPVC specifications can narrow the gap significantly compared with basic white casement uPVC.
Compare both materials on your own sizes.
Enter the same dimensions and glazing specification for uPVC and aluminium to compare fitted estimates more fairly.
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