Comparing Your Options For Replacement Windows
If you're looking into replacement windows for your home, you can choose from wood, aluminum, or vinyl. You'll want to consider the appearance of the frame and how well it insulates against heat loss. Here's a look at how these windows compare.
Wood Frames Are Traditional
If you have an older, historic home, then wood frames are probably the best type because they have a more traditional appearance. Wood is the original material for window frames. While it looks appealing, wood does have some drawbacks when compared to aluminum and vinyl. For one thing, wood requires the most maintenance. Being a natural material, it is subject to rotting and damage by insects. Plus, you'll need to keep the wood painted or stained to keep it looking nice and to protect the frames.
Aluminum Frames Are Lightweight
If your home has old aluminum …show more content…
They have a distinctive look so you probably love them or hate them. However, they are popular for a reason. They are practically maintenance free and they provide excellent insulation. The vinyl is made with tiny air pockets, so it reduces heat loss through the frames. Vinyl never needs painted and it doesn't discolor or decay. The color is added when the vinyl is made rather than being applied to the surface. This makes scratches and other light damage nearly invisible.
You can see each type of frame has its advantages, so you may have a hard time choosing. To make your choice easier, you can choose a hybrid type of frame. For instance, you can buy replacement windows with wood on the interior side for improved appearance, and aluminum or vinyl on the exterior side, which reduces the need for upkeep. You can even buy vinyl frames with the color of wood and texture of wood grain for frames that look like expensive hardwood, but require none of the maintenance of real
If you're looking into replacement windows for your home, you can choose from wood, aluminum, or vinyl. You'll want to consider the appearance of the frame and how well it insulates against heat loss. Here's a look at how these windows compare.
Wood Frames Are Traditional
If you have an older, historic home, then wood frames are probably the best type because they have a more traditional appearance. Wood is the original material for window frames. While it looks appealing, wood does have some drawbacks when compared to aluminum and vinyl. For one thing, wood requires the most maintenance. Being a natural material, it is subject to rotting and damage by insects. Plus, you'll need to keep the wood painted or stained to keep it looking nice and to protect the frames.
Aluminum Frames Are Lightweight
If your home has old aluminum …show more content…
They have a distinctive look so you probably love them or hate them. However, they are popular for a reason. They are practically maintenance free and they provide excellent insulation. The vinyl is made with tiny air pockets, so it reduces heat loss through the frames. Vinyl never needs painted and it doesn't discolor or decay. The color is added when the vinyl is made rather than being applied to the surface. This makes scratches and other light damage nearly invisible.
You can see each type of frame has its advantages, so you may have a hard time choosing. To make your choice easier, you can choose a hybrid type of frame. For instance, you can buy replacement windows with wood on the interior side for improved appearance, and aluminum or vinyl on the exterior side, which reduces the need for upkeep. You can even buy vinyl frames with the color of wood and texture of wood grain for frames that look like expensive hardwood, but require none of the maintenance of real