Does your space still have single-pained windows that cannot keep the heat in? If so, it’s time to replace those old windows with top-of-the-line new windows. Anyone who has purchased new or replacement window frames, knows the challenge buyers face in choosing the best one. There are so many options available. And, unlike installing a door, once you install that frame, you cannot easily change your mind. Each type of frame has different pros and cons. Different buyers prioritize different assets to match their location, home-style and personality. You may wish to focus on style, energy efficiency or durability. You want to select the right fit for your home, your location and your needs. Here we examine manufactured frame options available for your residential property; where they excel and where they do not.
Metal Window Frames
A standard option, most homeowners choose metal, steel or aluminum frames for their low cost, lightweight and easy maintenance. They cost between $140-400 making them some of the least expensive frames available. Though they may rust, they make a prime option for hurricane-prone areas because they meet stringent coastal building codes. They are an eco-friendly option that can be recycled. Unfortunately, metal frames provide minimal insulation compared with all other framing options. If you choose metal window frames, make sure you include a thermal break (an insulating plastic strip placed between the inside and outside of the item and sash) as that benefits the insulating power of the frames.
Composite Frames
Composite window frames include elements such as particleboard, laminated strand lumber and polymer plastics. As one of the more expensive options, they cost between $200-1,800. Many places accept them for recycling making them an eco-friendly choice. Though made from more durable materials, they still look like wooden windows. They insulate very well. Composite wood frames are more durable than natural wood frames. Unlike wood, they stay uniform as the weather changes. They also resist decay and moisture more than wood. Unlike natural wood frames, they require little maintenance. They also last longer than vinyl. Many appreciate their versatility as they come in a variety of shapes and colors. This makes it easier to match the décor of any home. If you want the look of wood without the maintenance and you don’t mind paying a bit more, choose a composite frame.
Wood Window Frames
Some people just want the look of wood frames in their home. Costing between $300-800, wood window frames insulate better than any other framing material. When maintained properly, they last over 50 years, longer than any other frame. Constructed with natural materials, wood frames decompose, making them the most eco-friendly option available in framing. Many people like the timeless look and are drawn to the naturalness of using wood. Also, people like the ability to change the look of their wood frames through painting or staining them in different colors. However, wood frames need regular maintenance and are susceptible to mold and decay. Homeowners can reduce maintenance by using aluminum or vinyl cladding. Just understand using metal cladding will reduce the thermal performance of a wood frame. Wood frames also weigh more than other framing materials.
Fiberglass Frames
Coming in between $600-900, Fiberglass windows can cost a significant amount more than other window frames. The difficulty of installing them also increases the overall cost. Thankfully, the high cost brings many advantages to the performance and style of these modern windows. Highly durable, they can last up to 50 years. Constructed out of glass, they recycle easily making them an eco-friendly option. With insulation filled air cavities, fiberglass frames insulate better than any other frame available, up to 3 times that of a basic vinyl frame. Fiberglass frames also expand and contract at about the same rate as the glass it holds making them perform better than other windows. This also increases the efficiency and durability of the frame making this one of the top quality types of windows available.
Vinyl Window Frames
Wildly popular, vinyl frames cost less than most frames. Many do-it-yourselfers also like vinyl because of their easy installation and lightweight. Most vinyl frames cost between $120-400. Buyers who fill the cavities of their vinyl frames with insulation improve the frame’s energy efficiency. As with Fiberglass, filled Vinyl frames insulate better than any other frame available. Vinyl frames are easier to maintain than other framing materials because they do not require painting or staining. They also resist moisture better than most frames and they are easy to clean. Less durable than other frames, vinyl frames only last about 20 years. Most people looking for style skip over vinyl because they don’t like the limited color selection or how they look in their home.
Whether you care about style, cost, eco-friendliness or energy efficiency you must install your windows correctly or risk decreasing their efficiency and durability. Here at Specialty Home Products, we know commercial and residential windows and how to properly install them better than anywhere else. Contact us today and we will help you find the right windows for your home project. We offer a variety of different design options for you to shop for. Before you spring for new replacements, browse our wide array of custom windows to help guide you to make your decision.