Understanding the Benefits of Different Window Materials

Now that you have selected the style of your new replacement windows, your next step is to select the type of material of your window frames.  Windows that are more energy efficient and that have better insulating properties are more expensive yet will often hold up better against the elements.  However, when considering the overall cost of your windows, you must take into consideration the amount of savings you will receive on your energy bills as it is often more cost-effective to install the best energy efficient window you can afford. 

Window frames are available, made out of wood, vinyl, fiberglass, aluminum, and a combination of wood clad with fiberglass, aluminum, or vinyl. 

Vinyl Replacement Windows:

Vinyl windows are often the least expensive type of window, with many models having low quality weather-stripping that is not durable.  Many lower quality vinyl windows will have plastic parts what break when the window is tilted out for cleaning.  Another disadvantage of vinyl windows is that vinyl will contract and expand with temperature change.  This contracting and expanding reduces the windows ability to provide an adequate seal.  Another disadvantage with vinyl windows is that if the window is exposed to very hot sunlight, the vinyl can warp.  There are however some very quality vinyl windows on the market.

Wood Replacement Windows:

Wood framed windows are more expensive than vinyl windows and wood does have natural insulating properties.  However, wood windows do need to be sealed with paint or finished to prevent the wood from rotting as well as to reduce sun damage. 

Fiberglass Replacement Windows:

Fiberglass framed windows are cost more than many wood window frames, are stronger than vinyl and more durable against the elements than wood framed windows.  In addition, fiberglass windows are like wood in that they can be painted.  

Clad Replacement Windows: