Wood Windows vs. Vinyl Windows

Wood Windows vs. Vinyl Windows

March 12, 2020
By:
Martin Whitmore, President of US Window & Door
Wood Windows

While making a decision concerning new windows, you have to take into consideration the theme of your home. For example, if you have a home that already features wood windows, and has a general wooden theme, then new windows made of wood will help maintain the current theme of the home. Wood and vinyl windows both have their benefits and disadvantages. There are multiple differences between wood windows and vinyl windows such as cost, performance, aesthetics and reaction to climate.

Vinyl Windows

Advantages: Generally, vinyl windows are not as expensive as wood windows, and they require much less maintenance. If properly insulated, they offer great thermal and sound resistance. Vinyl windows are not typically affected by moisture, and do not need to be painted. In modern times, vinyl windows has quickly risen as the most popular replacement window. Vinyl windows are also very popular amongst new homes and remodels.

Disadvantages: Though replacement vinyl windows do not require too much maintenance, like most windows, they need to be cleaned. The hinges of your vinyl windows also should be lubricated occasionally to prevent sticking. The colors for vinyl windows are mostly limited to white, tan and bronze but this has begun to change as of recently, as more and more manufactures are offering multiple color options. In old homes, vinyl windows might not be the best choice, because they cannot be easily painted and hence, will not go with the decor.

premium vinyl windows

Wood Windows

Advantages: Wood windows bring a nice sense of wholeness and warmth to a room. Wood windows always seem to add a touch of elegance to the theme of your home. Also, unlike vinyl windows, you can paint replacement wood windows in any combination of colors to precisely match your decor. Besides aesthetic value, wood windows also provide great insulation, and reduce condensation. When installed, most wood windows are available weather stripping that reinforces them against environmental factors such as wind or rain. And, like vinyl windows, they also are great and reducing sound. Wood being a renewable resource, makes for a very environment friendly window. Wood windows have been around for over a century, and you can be sure that they will last for a long time, with proper care.

Disadvantages: One main disadvantage of wood windows is the required maintenance of painting. You also have to guard them against staining, by going in for repeated window treatments. If you neglect the periodical maintenance, then it is likely to result in rotting and wearing of the window. Also, sometimes your wood window may warp due to moisture and swell up. If your window starts to warp, it can make it very difficult to open or shut!If you are still debating on vinyl windows vs wood windows, there is another option called woodclad windows, which essentially combines the best of wood and vinyl windows in one. What this means is that you will now have the beauty of wood on the inside, and the low maintenance of fiberglass on the outside. These are just some of the factors to consider when choosing new windows for your home. Ultimately, the decision depends on your situation and needs. Don’t forget to always consult a professional if you’re unsure which type of window would be best for your home.