Winter is on the way! And on cold and blustery days, windows are more important than ever. From behind their glass, curious kids can peak out at the snow and signal to neighbors that it’s time to go sledding. Although it may be too cold to go outside on a chilly January morning, windows let you see the beautiful frost from inside your cozy home. Most importantly, windows provide a barrier between the cold outside and the warmth of your home’s interior. However, if your windows are not strong, efficient, and properly fitted, they won’t provide the insulation you need to keep the cold out and your energy bills down. So if you need to replace your windows, take some time to explore the different types of windows available. Which framing material suits your needs?
Types of Windows
Although there are many different types of windows available, today we’re going to focus on three common frame materials: vinyl, wood, and aluminum . . .
VINYL
Vinyl is the go-to option for many modern homeowners looking to replace their windows. Why? First of all, it’s affordable. You won’t have to bust the bank for these windows. In addition, vinyl frames (which are made from polyvinyl chloride, a.k.a. PVC) are energy-efficient and require very little maintenance. Without any help from you, they can resist corrosion, stand strong in harsh weather, and remain beautiful. Finally, vinyl frames can be resized to fit almost any opening.
WOOD
Although wood was once one of the most popular window framing materials around, it has been overtaken by modern options in more recent years. Wood can be painted or stained, and many homeowners appreciate its natural beauty and classic charm. It is strong, versatile, easy to work with, and a natural insulator as well. Unfortunately, some people find its maintenance hard to swallow: wood should be painted, stained, or sealed if you want to preserve its beauty. You will also need to touch-up the paint, refurbish the wood, sand the frame, and apply new coats of stain or sealant from time to time. Although it may require some elbow grease, you can’t deny the beauty of wood.
ALUMINUM
Aluminum window frames are both affordable and durable and, like vinyl, they require little maintenance. Despite their light weight and slim profile, these frames are very strong, and they can be configured to fit a variety of openings. However, aluminum isn’t recommended for beachfront homes, where the salt water and the salt in the air can corrode the aluminum and affect the frame’s performance. In addition, aluminum has high thermal conductance, which means it becomes quite cold in the winter and hot in the summer. Although this shouldn’t be a deal breaker (splitting the frame components can allow for a thermal break), it’s certainly something to think about.
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If you’re interested in replacing your windows, contact Taylor-Made Roofing if you live in southwest Missouri. We offer vinyl, wood, and aluminum windows in a variety of styles and colors, so you’re sure to find a product that fits your home’s style and your budget. And if you need help comparing the types of windows available, we would be happy to help you explore your options. When you’re ready to get started, please give us a call at 417-326-8778 or contact us online.