Choosing new windows can solve multiple problems simultaneously – they let in more natural light, regulate your home’s temperature, and make your space look much more appealing. However, windows can only be efficient if made from high-quality materials, produced with excellent craftsmanship, and installed properly.
With so many material options available, making a choice can be challenging. We’re here to help by highlighting some important facts. Top manufacturers create window frames from various materials, each with its own pros and cons.
PVC
PVC is considered the standard for window frames, offering the best balance of price, quality, versatility, and low maintenance. Economical and energy-efficient, PVC windows are fire-resistant and easy to maintain. They don’t require painting or refurbishing. Additionally, they provide excellent noise insulation and are available in many styles and colors.
Aluminum
Aluminum is a lightweight yet sturdy material that is quite flexible and low-maintenance. It is often used for exterior doors that need to withstand harsh weather, as well as for complete window and door assemblies. Previous issues like thermal bridging and corrosion are now resolved, making aluminum an increasingly popular choice every day.
Wood
Wooden window frames are classic and elegant. The advantages of wooden frames stem from the fact that wood is a natural material, which adds aesthetic and emotional warmth to any space. They give your home a warm and inviting look and complement colonial-style interiors beautifully.
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Wood is also a great insulator, particularly for noise, but requires considerable maintenance. Moisture, insects, and fire are natural enemies of wood. Additionally, wooden windows can be very expensive, which is why many people opt for other materials that mimic the wood look.
Combination of Wood and Aluminum
These wooden windows are clad in aluminum, combining the sound and thermal insulation benefits of wood with the durability and low maintenance of aluminum. They are easier to maintain but can be somewhat pricier. Since they are encased in durable “shells,” they can be painted in any color you desire.
Choosing the Ideal Material for Your New Windows
PVC, aluminum, or wood – what to choose? Since window selection isn’t like picking out a piece of clothing or a car that you’ll replace relatively soon, window selection requires careful consideration. When choosing windows, you’re likely looking for them to serve you for half of your lifetime. Therefore, consider the following factors to guide your decision:
Energy Efficiency
Since windows are a long-term investment, the choice of material and corresponding windows is costly. On the other hand, it’s clear how important windows are for the energy efficiency of a building, significantly affecting thermal and sound insulation, heating and cooling costs, and daily comfort. Pay attention to how much energy you can save by choosing a particular material or type of window.
Choice of Colors and Styles
Besides functionality and energy efficiency, windows are a significant part of both interior and exterior aesthetics. Therefore, it’s important that they look good too. Some materials are much more adaptable than others. If you want to paint the frames or have them match your home’s aesthetics, choose the material carefully. Today, you have a wide range of models, shapes, sizes, colors, and designs to choose from.
Price
When replacing windows, it often involves changing all the windows in your home, which requires a significant financial investment. Depending on your needs, choose the appropriate material. PVC offers an excellent price-to-quality ratio, aluminum is more expensive, while wooden windows always maintain their high price. If you’re unsure and can’t calculate the costs yourself, consult experts and make an informed decision on what works best for you.