Choosing between PVC and aluminium shutters comes down to more than just style. Both offer specific advantages depending on the room, location, and how much wear the shutters will get over time.
This guide explains what separates these two materials so you can match the right shutter type to each space in your home without wasting time or money.
PVC shutters are known for their ability to resist moisture. That makes them a practical fit in kitchens, bathrooms, laundries, and coastal homes. Unlike timber, PVC doesn’t swell when exposed to humidity. It stays stable, helping it last longer in spaces where steam, salt air or water contact are common.
These shutters also perform well in sun-exposed rooms. Most PVC panels used in Australia are UV-stabilised, meaning they won’t easily warp or fade when placed behind west-facing windows or glass doors. In hotter parts of the country, such as Queensland or inland NSW, that UV resistance helps keep maintenance to a minimum.
PVC shutters are also light and easy to clean. You don’t need special products—just wipe them down with a damp cloth to remove dust or spills. This suits households that want fuss-free fittings without added cleaning work.
Aluminium shutters bring strength. Their frame and blades hold up well in high-traffic areas, especially places where knocks, pets, or strong wind might damage other types of window coverings.
Unlike PVC, which may flex under force, aluminium is rigid. This means the blades stay firm and aligned, giving a clean, finished look even after years of use. It’s a reliable option for sliding doors, balconies, or front-facing rooms where security and durability are priorities.
Another benefit is noise control. Aluminium shutters, when closed, add a layer that helps soften external sound. This is especially useful in homes near busy roads, schools or commercial zones. Their ability to create privacy without complete blackout also makes them popular in living areas and bedrooms.
Cleaning aluminium shutters is simple, but because they often include more moving parts, they may need occasional inspection to make sure screws or fittings stay tight over time.
When comparing PVC and aluminium shutters, several core differences stand out. Each has strengths depending on how and where they’re used.
| Feature | PVC Shutters | Aluminium Shutters |
| Moisture Resistance | Handles steam and water well; ideal for wet areas | Performs well outdoors; may heat up if uncoated |
| Durability | Softer material; may flex under pressure | Rigid and impact-resistant; holds shape in busy zones |
| Cost | Lower upfront cost; suits whole-home installs | Higher initial cost; better for long-term use |
| Cleaning | Wipes clean easily with a cloth | Needs occasional checks on parts and fittings |
| Design Options | Wood-effect and neutral tones available | Matte and metallic finishes suit modern styles |
Different rooms place different demands on window coverings. Moisture, traffic, sunlight, and airflow all affect how shutters perform over time. Choosing the right material for each space helps prevent damage, reduces maintenance, and keeps your home looking consistent.
Bathrooms and Laundries
PVC is ideal here. These rooms produce steam and are often cleaned with water. PVC resists swelling and doesn’t peel or warp in humid air. It’s also light enough to fit onto small or narrow windows without extra reinforcement.
Living Areas and Bedrooms
Aluminium shutters work well in areas where clean lines and structural strength are needed. Bedrooms near busy streets benefit from the added sound blocking. Aluminium also suits wide windows where strength across longer spans is needed.
Kitchens
PVC performs well in kitchens, especially where windows sit above sinks or cooktops. It’s easy to wipe clean and resists staining from splashes or cooking grease.
Outdoor Spaces
For patios, balconies, and alfresco zones, aluminium is the safer choice. It holds up against wind, UV exposure, and weather extremes better than PVC. When fitted properly, aluminium shutters also improve privacy and airflow without needing external blinds or awnings.
Shutters are often chosen not just for appearance, but for how long they’ll last without needing replacement. Choosing based on daily wear can save time and cost over the next decade.
PVC suits indoor-only use. It works best in homes with young children, where ease of cleaning is important, and where windows stay protected from weather. It is not suited to outdoor or semi-exposed areas, even if covered, unless specified as outdoor-safe by the manufacturer.
Aluminium handles both indoor and outdoor use. It provides better frame support on wide openings and is less likely to flex or rattle during wind gusts. With correct installation, these shutters hold shape and colour for many years—even with daily use.
If budget allows, many homes use both materials. PVC covers the bathrooms and utility spaces, while aluminium fits external-facing areas or living zones where impact and stability matter more.
This split approach allows homeowners to balance initial cost with performance, using each material where it performs best.
Not every window needs the same shutter. Matching the material to the space saves money, prevents early wear, and improves day-to-day comfort. At Blinds Deal, we help homeowners choose between PVC and aluminium based on real use—not just what looks good in a catalogue.
We offer custom sizing, delivery across Australia, and a team that checks your window type, orientation and layout before giving recommendations. Our shutters are built for real conditions, not just showroom use.
If you’re unsure which type fits your home, we can talk you through it. From new builds to updates, we’ll help you get it right the first time.
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PVC is not recommended for outdoor or semi-outdoor use unless the product is specifically designed for that purpose. Even on covered patios, changes in temperature and moisture levels can cause standard PVC shutters to degrade over time. Aluminium is the better fit for all external-facing windows or open-air spaces.
Aluminium can conduct heat, but most modern aluminium shutters are powder-coated, which reduces heat retention and surface temperature. When installed with correct spacing and ventilation, they manage sunlight and airflow well without causing indoor heat buildup.
Yes, PVC shutters generally cost less upfront. They offer good value in indoor environments with low to medium wear. For homes where budget matters, PVC is a reliable option in areas like bedrooms, bathrooms, or kitchens.
Aluminium shutters are built for durability. When maintained and cleaned periodically, they can last over 15 years without warping or breaking down. This makes them a strong long-term investment for areas with daily use or exposure.
PVC shutters need minimal care—wiping them with a damp cloth removes dust and spills. Aluminium shutters may need occasional hinge tightening or a quick spray and wipe to keep the frames clean, especially in high-exposure zones like balconies or kitchen windows.
Yes. Many homeowners choose PVC for wet areas and aluminium for front-facing windows or outdoor spaces. Using both materials allows you to balance cost with durability, matching each shutter to its intended environment.
Do you have any questions? Feel free to contact us using the details below or by completing our enquiry form.
Copyright © 2025 Blinds Deal
Copyright © 2025 Blinds Deal