The frame you choose for your new window not only affects the overall look of your home, but also its weatherability and future maintenance requirements
Frame Choices
Vinyl
(Most Popular)
Pros:
Low maintenance — never needs painting
Tight sealing
Does not swell with humidity like wood
Very affordable
Cons:
Limited color selection
Features to Look For:
Fusion welded corners — no screws to loosen
Low air infiltration rating
Reinforced lock rails
Foam or fiberglass filled frames (shown)
Wood
(For a Classic Look)
Pros:
Great for historic renovations
Available in any color
Color can easily be changed
Beautiful — like a fine piece of furniture
Features to Look For:
Aluminum covered/clad exteriors (shown)
Interlocking meeting rails
Cons:
Swells with humidity – can be tight in summer when you want to open and loose when dry winter air arrives
Air infiltration typically higher than vinyl or fiberglass windows
Requires periodic painting or staining
Improperly maintained wood can rot
Can be expensive
Fiberglass
(Benefits of Vinyl, Wood and Aluminum Combined)
Pros:
Similar in strength to aluminum
Highly energy efficient
Does not swell with humidity
Low maintenance
Available in any color and multiple woodgrains
Color can be changed anytime
Cons:
Can be expensive
Features to Look For:
Foam or fiberglass filled frames
Interlocking meeting rails
DARE TO COMPARE!
