Window material options wood vs vinyl

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Looking for a window replacement? In this three-part blog series, we will be helping you choose the right window material by comparing wood and vinyl.

Transcript of Window material options wood vs vinyl

PART I: THE IMPORTANCE OF CHOOSING THE RIGHT MATERIAL

There are different reasons why homeowners replace their windows. Whatever your reason may be, replacing windows not only enhances your home’s value but also ensures that you and your family stay comfortable. However, you’ll only benefit from a replacement if you choose the right one. There will be more than a handful of options available to you and choosing entails considering several factors, one of which is window framing material.

THE RIGHT MATERIAL MATTERS

Even though windows are mostly composed of glass, window frames are still as important as the glazing. They serve as the windows’ backbone, holding the glazing in place while sealing out drafts and moisture and being responsible for allowing window operation. Given the frame’s role, your choice can then make or break how a replacement functions and performs in your home.

However, not all window frames are created equal. A lot of homeowners are not concerned by this because they have decided on simply getting a brand-new version of their old windows but if the opportunity is available, wouldn’t you want to take advantage of the chance to have a better window?

PART I: THE IMPORTANCE OF CHOOSING THE RIGHT MATERIAL

WOOD AND VINYL: TODAY’S TOP CHOICES

The window frame is one that will address your needs. Look for one that is durable, of course, but easy to maintain, energy-efficient and highly attractive, so you get a good blend of form and function. Wood is a traditional framing material and though wooden windows have been around for years, the material remains a favorite because of its charm, beauty and elegance.

Vinyl, on the other hand, is a relatively new material that boasts of durability, maintenance ease and affordability. Both have a lot to offer but there can only be one right window frame material for you. To help you choose, comparing the two is the best course of action.

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In the next part, we will be comparing wood and vinyl to give you a deeper understanding of each as window framing materials. Read on for more!

PART II: COMPARING WOOD AND VINYL

Window replacement can definitely impact your home through improved aesthetics and energy performance, among other aspects. However, if you wish to maximize your investment’s potential, you must be able to identify and acquire the right type of windows according to your home and personal requirements. To help you do just that, we’ll be talking about two leading window frame materials: wood and vinyl.

WOOD: AN OLDIE BUT GOODIE?

One of the oldest building materials available, wood has the natural ability to resist heat and cold transfer. It also offers great insulative value and is undeniably beautiful, durable and long-lasting when properly maintained. It can drastically improve a home’s appearance and value but it is not without its disadvantages.

To preserve the natural and elegant look of wood windows, you will need to spend a sizable amount of time and money for routine care and maintenance. Typically, periodic yet regular painting and staining will be required. Not to mention that wood windows have to be treated to protect them from moisture and rot, which can give rise to pest infestations or compromise the structural integrity of the window. Wood also contracts and expands when the temperature changes, wearing out seals on a window, reducing energy efficiency in the home. Plus, the material’s charm and beauty comes at a steep price.

PART II: COMPARING WOOD AND VINYL

VINYL: THE HUMBLE CONTENDER

Vinyl windows have become one of the most popular choices among homeowners for a number of good reasons. For starters, they can look as attractive as wood. There’s still nothing like wood windows but vinyl windows offer comparable appearance such that it’s difficult to tell one from the other. But where wood’s beauty will cost you a lot, vinyl steps up by being the more affordable alternative.

Aside from cost, however, vinyl windows is also more manageable than wood in terms of maintenance. In fact, all it needs is routine cleaning and it will be good as new. With lower upfront and maintenance costs and good insulation values, vinyl windows are undoubtedly a practical choice.

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So, should you go for wood or vinyl windows? Head on over to Part 3 for a rundown of considerations to help you make that final decision.

PART III: THE VERDICT - WOOD OR VINYL WINDOWS?

Both wood and vinyl windows have something to offer homeowners. And because what is right depends on what your needs are, both materials have a fair shot of being the right choice. Still, there can only be one right for you and your home and you have a decision to make. What to consider? The primary aspects that a homeowner must look into when searching for replacement windows are appearance, maintenance, energy efficiency, and value.

APPEARANCE

Wood and vinyl windows both come in different styles and grades. When put side-by-side for comparison, the similar grades of wood and vinyl windows will look very alike. However, some of the best wood windows exude a distinctive look that vinyl windows may not always be able to mimic. However, the more good-looking a wood window is, the more expensive it will be.

It is also important to consider how your windows would look like years after installation. Wood may look great within the first few years, but to maintain its look, you’ll need to have them repainted. Vinyl windows, on the other hand, can maintain its color after 10 years or more.

PART III: THE VERDICT - WOOD OR VINYL WINDOWS?

MAINTENANCE

While homeowners may understand that maintenance is crucial to keeping their windows in top shape, nobody actually likes doing it so opting for the replacement that is the easiest to maintain is the best way to go. And between wood and vinyl windows, the latter has a leg up over the other. You can always hire a professional to take care of maintaining your windows but getting replacements that are easy to care for will also save you money in the long run.

ENERGY EFFICIENCY

Wood and vinyl both offer good insulation, making them energy-efficient materials. To determine which of your options will be right for you, check replacement window labels for NFRC ratings. These ratings break down performance levels specifically so you’ll get a clearer idea as to what will work best for you.

PART III: THE VERDICT - WOOD OR VINYL WINDOWS?

VALUE

On its own, replacing windows already raises the value of your property because you are improving both its form and function. You don’t necessarily have to be looking to sell to appreciate this. Determining what will offer you more value between wood and vinyl windows is a matter of assessing what will give you more bang for your buck,while addressing your needs.

THE VERDICT

Wood may be a beautiful material but, on the overall, vinyl poses more benefits as a window framing material, considering all that it can do for you and your home. Not only is it comparable in appearance to wood windows but vinyl ones are also more affordable, a breeze to maintain (offering more savings in the long run!) and energy-efficient, making them a good investment to make.

Kroll Construction

29017 Ford Rd, Garden City,MI 48135

(888) 338-6340

KrollWindow.com