Are you considering getting new windows installed in Southgate Michigan? Today, there are many different choices and options when it comes to your home windows. From the number of glass panes to specific coatings on windows. Even the materials that the window frames are made from can be altered to your liking. Two of the most common choices for window frames is wooden window frames and vinyl window frames. There are other choices such as aluminum and fiberglass but the most popular are wood and vinyl. Choosing one for your home can be tricky. We’ll go over some pros and cons of each of these materials to help you make a more informed choice when it comes to your home windows.
Window Frame Choices: Wood Versus Vinyl Windows in Southgate Michigan
Replacement windows are one of the best investments you can make for your Southgate Michigan home. Between the money you save on heating and cooling your home and the increased value they provide, there really are no downsides to this great house upgrade. This is true with both types of window frames as long as they are energy efficient. But it is important to remember that there are options for replacement windows in Southgate Michigan.
Before you choose whether to go with wood or vinyl window frames for your home windows it is important to understand the difference between the two and what is best for your situation. We’ll cover both of these window frame materials and give you more details below:
Quality:
Because vinyl is a type of PVC that works well in tandem with the window pane, it is often seen as the sturdier option. Unlike wood, the vinyl window material has no issue with warping, expanding and contracting with weather changes, or bending. This means that vinyl windows functions more effectively for a longer time period than wood. Wood can often end up needing to be replaced because the warping effects the quality and effectiveness of the seal.
Maintenance: In order to keep wood windows in good condition and functioning as they should, you will need to keep up a strict maintenance routine. Slacking in this routine will require you to spend more money to replace the windows again after the window has become compromised. Vinyl windows require little to no maintenance and only requires a basic cleaning every few months.
Price:
While the upfront costs can be very similar, the long term costs vary significantly. Because wood warps under extreme weather conditions it can end up needing to be replaced sooner. It also needs to be painted, stained and maintained much more frequently than vinyl windows. This means that you will need to look into replacing your home windows again in as little as a decade, even with the frequent maintenance. Vinyl replacement windows on the other hand often come with a lifetime warranty and requires little effort on your part.
Aesthetic:
Your personal preference is a big factor in what you choose, but if you are looking to follow trends, wood is seen as a more popular and sought after look. Wood is easy to sand and re-stain if you want a change, but can be harder to get paint off of. But vinyl windows does come in a wider variety of styles and options from the start so you have a larger list to choose from. So if you plan on staying in your home for a long period of time, go with your personal preference, but if you are planning on selling in the near future you should really consider wood.
Efficiency:
Both materials are great insulators, which is why they are the top two options. But vinyl does handle temperature extremes much better than wood and easily keep your home’s temperature exactly how you want it. This is because vinyl has no issue with warping or contracting, so the seal stays perfectly in place without issue. It is important that no matter what material you go with, you need to have the windows properly installed or there will be issues.
Talk with a Home Improvement Contractor
To better understand the window choices and what it can mean to your home be sure to talk with a qualified home improvement contractor in Southgate Michigan. One of the best available is All Point Construction. They offer free consultations on window replacement. Call them today at (734) 407-7110