Did you know that windows can last between 20 and 25 years if you buy a quality brand, get them professionally installed, and maintain them?
Even so, the time will come when you need to either repair or replace them. If you haven’t been to a replacement window shop recently, the many window frame materials available might surprise you.
Are you interested in learning about the different window materials you can get?
What follows is a look at your window materials options. You’ll see what the materials are and the specific benefits they afford.
Vinyl Windows…the Leading Window Material
The most common window material option is vinyl. Wood windows used to be the leading type — and it’s still a popular choice for many homeowners. But vinyl is now the odds on favorite for several reasons.
One reason vinyl windows are so popular is the cost. They’re among the most cost-effective window material types available on the market today. But that doesn’t mean having to settle for an inferior product.
Besides being of high quality, vinyl windows are available in different styles and colors, offer energy-efficiency benefits, are easy to maintain, and are durable.
That said, you can’t paint vinyl windows the way you can paint wood windows. So, you should spend some time considering what color you want. You won’t be able to change the color later unless you replace the windows.
Wood Windows
There’s something about natural wood grain that appeals to many homeowners. Wood frames can give your home a classically beautiful look that’s hard to match — much less beat.
Yes, you can get vinyl windows constructed to look like wood windows — and you might save some money by going this route. But some homeowners want wood window frames rather than faux wood window frames.
Wood windows offer a substantial degree of insulation, provide energy efficiency, and are durable. Also, consider that there are different types of wood to choose from.
One thing to keep in mind, however, is that wood windows require routine maintenance. Wood windows can decay over time. So you’ll want to clean them routinely. You can also consider sanding and repainting them as needed.
Composite Windows
Composite windows are made up of thermoplastic polymer and wood fibers. Why would you be potentially interested in getting composite windows? For one thing, they offer great energy efficiency and are highly durable.
And unlike wood windows, composite windows aren’t subject to decay or rot. What can you do if you want wood windows but would rather not deal with the disadvantages? You can get composites and paint them. They’ll look like wood.
Vinyl-Clad Windows
What are vinyl-clad windows anyway? If you’re selecting new windows and are struggling to choose between wood and vinyl, then vinyl-clad might be the answer. They have vinyl exteriors and wood interiors.
The exterior is intended to enhance durability while the interior is designed to provide the look of natural wood grain. You won’t have to perform any maintenance on the exterior side. But you can stain or paint the interior side.
Aluminum Windows
Aluminum windows are aesthetically pleasing, energy efficient, highly recyclable, durable, and resistant to rust and corrosion. They’re also economical, lightweight, available in many different styles, and recyclable.
They’re also flexible enough to fit just about any configuration. This is one reason why aluminum windows are common in residential and commercial applications.
They’ll cost more than many other window types. But the benefits of having long-lasting windows that won’t require maintenance can be well worth it.
Fiberglass Windows
You’ll want to consider fiberglass windows when replacing your windows. Fiberglass windows have many of the same benefits as vinyl windows.
Fiberglass windows are durable, energy efficient, require minimal maintenance, resistant to warping and fading, and aesthetically pleasing.
But if you do go with fiberglass windows, you’ll pay a premium versus what you’ll pay for vinyl windows. It’s also important to know that there aren’t as many options as per colors and styles as there are for vinyl windows.
The reason for this is that fiberglass windows are a newer product category, so there are fewer options than they are for other windows.
Which One is for You?
Which window material type are you most interested in getting for your home? The good news is that there are quality options available regardless of the window frame material you select.
Even so, that doesn’t mean that one window frame type might not be more suitable for your home than another window frame type.
If you’re uncertain about which one to choose, your best bet is to head to a replacement window shop. You’ll be able to speak to the staff and ask whatever questions you have. The answers will help you to decide.
Get the Right Window Materials from the Right Retailer
When the time comes for replacement windows or window repair, you’ll want to find the right replacement window shop to patronize. Getting the right window materials is important — and we can help you do just that.
We have a wide selection of quality windows, are committed to providing great customer service, and employ experienced installers to put in your windows. It’s our goal to meet or exceed your expectations.
For the help you require, stop by for a visit or give us a call to speak with one of our customer care representatives. You can also get in touch for a no-obligation estimate.
