Renovation of one’s windows is an act that requires careful balance – after all, it requires making decisions which will have an effect on one’s wallet, comfort level, and house resale value; it will also make major changes to the home’s energy levels, aesthetic value, should be maintenance-friendly and be able to ensure safety.
With windows, there is no one size fits all. It all comes down to a combination of the type of house you have, your specific needs and the type of aesthetics you value. Below is a detailed description of the different types of window materials, along with the aesthetic value of each:
Wood
Renowned for its classic look and charm, wooden window frames have been the go-to choice of homeowners for hundreds of years. Not only do they come in a variety of types, they can also be stained, painted and given different types of finishes.
Aesthetic appeal of wooden window frames:
The ultimate choice among homeowners, wooden frames look charming and offer both literal and figurative warmth. They are also versatile enough to be molded into a wide variety of finishing types. Many frames can also be recolored should the homeowner wish so.
How to maintain wooden window frames:
Wooden windows can be best maintained with sealing and painting work from time to time. This helps maintain the original shape of the frame and prevents them from rotting.
Pros of wooden windows frames:
- They are the definition of classic: Wooden frames offer the “classic” homely look that has and will continue to be popular – it can also come in a variety of types to help beautify your house’s exterior and interiors exactly the way you want it.
- They help save on energy: Being an insulator, wooden frames allow homeowners to cut down on their power expenses by helping regulate temperature indoors.
Cons of wooden window frames:
- They can be expensive: Wooden frames tend to be on the higher side in terms of expense and installation costs – at least in the initial phases.
- They need regular maintenance: Wooden frames need consistent sealing and painting work to prevent them from rotting, which can be both time and cost-intensive.
Vinyl
A popular budget choice, vinyl frames are cost and energy efficient and do not need heavy maintenance.
Aesthetic appeal of vinyl window frames:
While it is impossible to repaint vinyl frames (as is finish gets integrated into the frame), they are available in a myriad of colors to choose from and do not lose their sheen over time. Vinyl window replacement is also another option.
How to maintain vinyl window frames:
Since vinyl is water and moisture proof, a simple water-and-soap mixture can help clean them up in minutes.
Pros of vinyl window frames:
- They are cost-efficient: Compared to other types of window frames vinyl ones are pretty cheap for the benefits they offer.
- They are super durable: Being waterproof, moisture proof and resistant to insects and pests means that vinyl frames are not prone to rotting, corrosion and degradation. Cleaning is simple and can be done with soap and water by the homeowners themselves.
Cons of vinyl window frames:
- They do not score high on the aesthetics scale: While it is true that vinyl frames are found in several colors, buying them becomes a one-and-done deal as one cannot re-paint them. Furthermore, options for customization are very few, if any.
- They are not the most eco-friendly: Making vinyl frames is not the most sustainable of processes, neither is their disposal.
Aluminum
Slim yet strong, frames made from aluminum stand as go-to options for industrial-type and modern house designs.
Aesthetic appeal of aluminum frames:
Their strength in slimness allows them to support a larger section of glass, which enhances the aesthetic appeal of certain types of houses.
How to maintain aluminum frames:
Frames made from aluminum require very little maintenance. Painted frames, however, will need regular fresh coats to prevent it from corroding.
Pros of aluminum frames:
- They are extremely strong and durable: For a slim-type frame, these are very strong and tarnish-proof.
- They can support larger pieces of glass: The slim frames make for a unique design which is almost all-glass, which is ideal for certain types of houses
Cons of aluminum frames:
- They are not very good for insulators: Aluminum frames are not capable of helping regulate temperatures, homeowners with homes that have these should keep this in mind.
- They are condensation-prone: Aluminum frames can actually foster condensation in certain climatic situations, which in turn could lead to the growth of mildew and mold – a highly undesirable outcome.
Fiberglass
A newer option available to homeowners, fiberglass is gaining popularity as frame material thanks to its highly durable nature.
Aesthetic Appeal of fiberglass frames:
Fiberglass frames are lightweight yet durable, while also available in a variety of finishing types and colors and being easily customizable.
How to maintain fiberglass frames:
Regular cleaning with a household cleaner can keep these frames clean. Homeowners can do this themselves.
Pros of fiberglass frames:
- They are very strong and require very less maintenance: Fiberglass is lightweight but strong at the same time.
- They are very efficient temperature regulators: Temperature fluctuations does not affect fiberglass, making it ideal for regulating indoor temperature
Cons of fiberglass frames:
- They can be costly: Fiberglass frames are more costly to buy and install, making steeper initial expenses.
- They are not abundantly available: It takes time to manufacture fiberglass, making for limited availability.
Finding the right window installation material should not be taken lightly – the material you choose will largely determine your home’s health and aesthetics. By keeping the aforementioned information into consideration, you will be able to make a much more informed decision and beautify your home in a way that enhances both its value and its structure.
