There are many factors to consider when planning on sash window restoration in your home, and we all have different priorities when it comes to making a selection.
Some of the most common factors include the windows’ cost, their efficiency and potential reduction in heating costs, the environmental benefits surrounding the lower fuel usage, durability, home security, and the look of the windows themselves.
Of course, the ideal window will have positive aspects that fall in each of these categories. However, each type of window will have different strengths and weaknesses.
Let’s explore four main types of windows and discuss the features, benefits, and differences between the different materials.
Fiberglass
Costing on average anywhere between $500 and $1,500 per window, fiberglass windows are resistant to corrosion, won’t warp with extreme temperatures and moisture, and provide excellent insulation.
If you live on the coast, they’ll handle any weather conditions and the salty sea air without damage.
If you’re looking for a durable material, fiberglass will do the job; however, it is generally the most expensive option for window material.
Wood
Costing an average of between $800 and $1,000 per window, wood creates a strong traditional aesthetic that is attractive to many homeowners. Wooden windows also make for effective insulation. They’re not the absolute best performers in this respect, but they fall above the average as far as windows go.
The area that wooden windows fail in is their durability. Wood will contract and expand in different weather conditions, causing permanent damage over time–especially in locations with extreme weather conditions. To avoid this happening, you will need to invest time, effort, and money into regularly treating and painting the wood.
While wood can give your home a great look, wooden windows also lie on the higher end of window price ranges and require the most maintenance.
Aluminum
Averaging at around $600 per window, aluminum is very reasonably-priced material for your windows. It is also extremely durable, meaning that your windows will weather well.
One downside is that aluminum windows conduct heat, which can make them uncomfortable in the summer, and in the winter they may collect condensation. To minimize these issues, it is best to get windows with a thermal barrier.
Aluminum windows are one low-cost and low-maintenance option; however, the major trade-off for the financial savings is their lack of insulation.
Vinyl
With average prices for vinyl windows starting at around the $400 mark, they are often the lowest-priced option. However, they are no less effective; where vinyl windows really excel is in their excellent insulation.
With a superior ability to keep the heat in your home, you’ll be able to save on your heating costs and reduce the carbon footprint of your home.
Vinyl windows are very easy to maintain. You can quickly wash them with a wet cloth. And with the ability to have frames made up in any color, your vinyl windows can be made to match the aesthetic of your home.
Vinyl is also durable and hard-wearing, meaning that it can withstand a good degree of exposure to the elements.
Vinyl windows are a great option that provide many benefits to your home. And, with reasonably low prices, they provide a quality yet cost-effective option.
Hopefully, this article can help you determine which type of window best suits your priorities and your home. Whether you need windows that will withstand harsh elements, you’re going for a particular aesthetic, or you need an inexpensive option, you can find a material for windows that fit your needs.
