Types of Window Frames
Window Frames
So the time has come to replace those outdated, drafty windows. For most homeowners this can be a worrisome. You see replacing windows can cost thousands of dollars. A quick internet search revealed that the average price of replacement windows in the Baltimore area is $9,640.00. This makes choosing the right windows and frames for your house even more important. You don’t want to get windows that are wrong for your house or that fail in a short amount of time. No, when you get this type of work done you want to know that you have selected the correct windows for you and that they are going to last for years.
While cost is a major concern for homeowners, they need to also keep a few other things in mind. For example, one should consider how the look of the new windows will change the look of the house. The windows themselves will have some effect. However the frames will change the looks the most. For this reason, we will discuss window frames.
Here we will discuss vinyl, wood and aluminum. They all have their benefits and detractions. A homeowner should really do some research on which is the best for his home, and his personal taste. He should also remember that the climate will play a role how energy efficient the frame is for his home.
Vinyl Frames
Let us discuss the frames. We’ll start with vinyl frames. Vinyl frames have come a long way. In their earlier versions vinyl frames had problems with heat expansion and were not stable in high temperatures. These windows gave many a homeowner a headache with their unreliability. So why did they choose vinyl? They probably went with vinyl because they were cost efficient. Unfortunately, these windows often failed.
Today’s vinyl window, however, has come a long way. While still an incredible savings option, they have gone way up in quality. Today’s vinyl window Is much more stable and infinitely more reliable. There are still some things you should look for in a vinyl window when purchasing them. Look for frames with heat-welded-joints. They are stronger than mechanically-put-together joints.
Wood Frames
Let us talk about wood frames. They can be quite striking especially on an older home. In addition, they can be painted or stained to match the home’s over-all look and give it that extra curb-appeal. For this reason, they are a popular choice for those replacing windows. When done properly they are a joy to own and look at every day.
A homeowner should be aware that, when not installed or sealed properly, wood frames could deteriorate over time. They also require regular maintenance. It can be difficult to find companies to do maintenance on your windows. So think carefully before you get swept away by the beauty of wood frames.
Aluminum Windows
Aluminum windows are the cheapest way to go and they do not rot like wood windows do. They also do not melt or fail like vinyl windows do. Because of the price many companies suggest using aluminum window replacements, even the high-end ones. In addition, they require very little maintenance and can still look very attractive. When you do need your windows serviced, you should have no trouble finding a company that will repair and do maintenance on your windows. So all good right?
Not so fast. Aluminum windows come with their drawbacks. They are a bad conductor of cold and heat and for a place like Baltimore that is a big thing to consider when most people expect their windows to be energy-efficient. They also sweat when it is cold outside and warm inside. This can rot the wood or stain the sheet rock around it.
So there you have it- a breakdown of the most popular types of window replacements. No one can pick for you. Your choice for your home should not only be personal but practical. My best advice would be to do further research on the type of frame that interests you the most.
While cost is a major concern for homeowners, they need to also keep a few other things in mind. For example, one should consider how the look of the new windows will change the look of the house. The windows themselves will have some effect. However the frames will change the looks the most. For this reason, we will discuss window frames.
Here we will discuss vinyl, wood and aluminum. They all have their benefits and detractions. A homeowner should really do some research on which is the best for his home, and his personal taste. He should also remember that the climate will play a role how energy efficient the frame is for his home.
Vinyl Frames
Let us discuss the frames. We’ll start with vinyl frames. Vinyl frames have come a long way. In their earlier versions vinyl frames had problems with heat expansion and were not stable in high temperatures. These windows gave many a homeowner a headache with their unreliability. So why did they choose vinyl? They probably went with vinyl because they were cost efficient. Unfortunately, these windows often failed.
Today’s vinyl window, however, has come a long way. While still an incredible savings option, they have gone way up in quality. Today’s vinyl window Is much more stable and infinitely more reliable. There are still some things you should look for in a vinyl window when purchasing them. Look for frames with heat-welded-joints. They are stronger than mechanically-put-together joints.
Wood Frames
Let us talk about wood frames. They can be quite striking especially on an older home. In addition, they can be painted or stained to match the home’s over-all look and give it that extra curb-appeal. For this reason, they are a popular choice for those replacing windows. When done properly they are a joy to own and look at every day.
A homeowner should be aware that, when not installed or sealed properly, wood frames could deteriorate over time. They also require regular maintenance. It can be difficult to find companies to do maintenance on your windows. So think carefully before you get swept away by the beauty of wood frames.
Aluminum Windows
Aluminum windows are the cheapest way to go and they do not rot like wood windows do. They also do not melt or fail like vinyl windows do. Because of the price many companies suggest using aluminum window replacements, even the high-end ones. In addition, they require very little maintenance and can still look very attractive. When you do need your windows serviced, you should have no trouble finding a company that will repair and do maintenance on your windows. So all good right?
Not so fast. Aluminum windows come with their drawbacks. They are a bad conductor of cold and heat and for a place like Baltimore that is a big thing to consider when most people expect their windows to be energy-efficient. They also sweat when it is cold outside and warm inside. This can rot the wood or stain the sheet rock around it.
So there you have it- a breakdown of the most popular types of window replacements. No one can pick for you. Your choice for your home should not only be personal but practical. My best advice would be to do further research on the type of frame that interests you the most.