Window Materials

Choosing new windows involves making a lot of decisions, such as colors, styles, materials, and installation techniques. And that is all in addition to choosing who you buy the windows from! At HEGG, we work hard to educate our customers so that they can make the best decision for their specific project, and one thing we discuss is what window materials to consider for your Columbus, Ohio project. Some of the most popular window materials are wood, fiberglass, and vinyl, and below we discuss some of the pros and cons of each. Want to discuss your project in more detail? Give our office a call at 614-761-0890.

Wood Windows

Wood is one of the oldest window materials, and it typically provides a traditional look for the new windows in your home. Wood windows come in a variety of styles and wood grains, making this a super customizable option for your project. However, wood does require maintenance over time. Wood windows are stained or painted on the inside to seal and protect the wood, and this often has to be repeated/refreshed as the windows age. The exterior of wood windows is typically clad with another material (such as vinyl or aluminum) but there are some manufacturers who provide a window that is solid wood with no barrier on the exterior. Wood windows do offer fantastic energy efficiency, so if the ongoing maintenance does not bother you, wood could be the perfect material for your new windows.

Vinyl Windows

Vinyl is another well-known material for replacement windows, and it could be a good choice for you as well. Vinyl windows are extremely popular because they come in a variety of styles and are widely available. Vinyl tends to be the most economical material as well (although not always). Most vinyl windows come in lighter colors (i.e. white or beige), and while some manufacturers are making darker colors (i.e. bronze or black), it is typically harder to buy a vinyl window in a dark color. Although vinyl is often more cost-efficient, it typically has a shorter lifespan than some of the other window materials available. Vinyl is not as strong as wood or fiberglass, so it can warp and bend over time. But depending on how long you plan on being in your home, vinyl could still be an optimal window material for your project.

Fiberglass Windows

Fiberglass has steadily increased in popularity in recent years, with both all fiberglass and wood/fiberglass combinations now available. Fiberglass is about eight times stronger than vinyl, making it an outstanding choice for your window material. This strength also lets fiberglass have thinner profiles, allowing for more glass space and a more modern appearance. Fiberglass is available in a variety of colors and in some instances is also paintable, so you can find the perfect look for your home. Fiberglass is easy to clean and extremely low maintenance, so you don’t have to worry about upkeep over time. However, fiberglass windows can be more expensive, so you have to weigh the pros and cons and decide if it is the right window material for your project.

Replacing the windows of your home is a big undertaking, and it can have a major impact on the look of your home, energy efficiency, and resale value. Finding the perfect window material for your project can ensure that you have windows that you love now and for years to come.

At HEGG Windows & Doors, we offer a variety of window brands, styles, and materials so we can help you find the perfect solution for your project.  Want to learn more? Click here to schedule a free, no-obligation estimate.

May 13, 2024