While windows typically represent about 10 percent of your house, they are often responsible for about 40 percent to 50 percent of the heat lost or gained!
When replacing your old, inefficient windows, there are several factors to consider – your budget (one of the most important), your home’s style, the performance you expect and maintenance.
Here is an overview of three of the major window materials used today:
Wood
This still tends to be the most popular choice for window material, especially for the parts of a window that are to be seen from indoors. Wood does not conduct cold or allow condensation as much as other materials do. However, wood is subject to shrinkage and swelling, so it will warp and rot over a period of time unless it is protected. These windows typically come unfinished unless ordered otherwise; some manufacturers offer prepainted windows in a number of standard colors. While expensive, this material is the most energy efficient when installed correctly
Vinyl
Vinyl windows are made from rigid, impact-resistant polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and have hollow spaces inside that make them resistant to heat loss and condensation. Inexpensive vinyl windows have a tendency to distort when exposed to extremes of heat and cold, making them harder to operate and allowing for air leakage. Vinyl windows cannot be painted, and darker shades may fade over time. This material is far more energy efficient than aluminum and far less maintenance than wood.
Aluminum
Aluminum windows are more durable than bare wood and are also thinner, lighter, and easier to handle. They are insulated with a thermal break of extruded vinyl and sometimes also foam, which reduces heat loss and condensation. Finishes protect the aluminum from corrosion. Aluminum windows can occupy larger spaces as well as be thinner and stronger than vinyl or wood windows.
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