Vinyl or Wood Windows? Which is Better?
With the building booms of the last few decades, several new building technologies emerged. Not the least of which was the invention of the vinyl window molding. This technology allows for windows and doors to be designed and molded in a variety of shapes, styles, and colors. Along with the vinyl, technology comes greatly improved efficiencies. These days homes are typically constructed using either traditional wood windows or vinyl. Which is better? Take a look at a few of the details and see if one sounds better for your project.
How Will They Look?
This one can be a little misleading, if not downright tricky to understand. Think of your windows not just as a unit, but also as having an inside and an outside. With typical vinyl windows, you have the choice of a few standard colors like white or beige. The color is literally in the vinyl, so you never have to paint again. With a wooden window, you’ll need to prepare to repaint the exterior every ten to fifteen years at what could be a considerable expense. However, many homeowners just love the interior look of wooden windows, so for them, the extra effort is worth it. There is also a third option, called a “clad” window. This design attaches a pre-designed vinyl cap over the wooden exterior, essentially the best of both worlds. Unfortunately, the manufacturing costs are such that they make up a small portion of the window market.
How Will They Work?
Some people believe vinyl windows are not traditional enough for some architecture, and to be sure some residential architectural committees will not allow vinyl windows. It would be a good idea to check if your homeowner’s association, should you have one, has any restrictions. This is important because they are usually custom ordered to fit the building they are going into. As such, they are usually non-refundable, so make sure there’s nothing to cause an expensive problem later. It’s also possible certain restrictions may require energy-efficient windows, such as vinyl, due to their customizability so just check before buying anything.
Functionality is probably where the most direct comparison between vinyl and wooden windows can be best illustrated. Both types can accommodate nearly every shape imaginable and integrate well into any design plan. There are restrictions of course, but they apply comparably. Sliders, double-hung, casement and plate glass designs can be built to be attractive, functional, and durable.
There are pros and cons of course to either material, but if you do your homework success can be easy. Ask yourself how much you can spend, and which things are most important to you. Do you love the maintenance-free vinyl? Is the color you want not available in vinyl, so you’ll have to paint anyway? Ask yourself a few good questions now and you’ll make the right choice for you. if you have questions on an upcoming project feel free to give us a call!
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