30 Oct Wood Windows vs Vinyl Windows: Advice from an Arlington Heights Home Remodeling and New Windows Company
Windows are designed to last for a number of years. However, once they start to show their age, they often become drafty and difficult to open. For this reason, many homeowners decide to have their windows replaced.
The only problem is, perhaps you don’t know which type of windows you should replace them with? Should you go with wood or vinyl? While both materials have their upsides, both materials have their downsides as well.
To help you make a decision, we’re going to get into the specifics of each, comparing them against one another.
Which is More Durable?
When it comes to the subject of durability, there isn’t much of a debate: vinyl windows are much more durable than wood windows. Whereas a wood window will typically thrive for around 30 years, a vinyl window will thrive for around 40 years.
This has a lot to do with their weather-resistance capabilities. Because vinyl is much more resistant to rain and sunshine, it tends to experience less deterioration. As you might expect, the less deterioration a window faces, the longer it’s going to thrive.
Which Requires More Maintenance?
Because they’re more vulnerable to rain and sunlight damage, wood windows require much more maintenance than vinyl windows. The maintenance involved with a wood window includes not only cleaning, but staining, painting, and sealing as well.
Conversely, the maintenance involved with a vinyl window generally only includes cleaning. This is due to the fact that vinyl can’t be painted, and that it’s highly resistant to rain and sunlight.
Therefore, not only do wood windows require more effort over the years, but they also end up costing more money. Because of this, they’re not a viable option for all homeowners.
Which Offers a Greater Aesthetic?
Both wood and vinyl windows offer a solid aesthetic. However, many would argue that wood has a superior look. While wood has a rustic, high-end feel, vinyl tends to have a subdued, mass-manufactured feel.
It’s important to note, however, that both types come in a wide variety of colors. While wood can be painted any color you choose, vinyl is manufactured with a series of different color options.
Which is Most Resistant to Weather?
As far as weather resistance goes, vinyl reigns supreme. Vinyl is highly resistant to both rain and sunlight, experiencing essentially no deterioration in its presence.
Wood, on the other hand, is highly vulnerable to both rain and sunlight. This is why it requires more maintenance, and also why its lifespan is shorter than vinyl.
Failure to properly seal your wood windows will likely result in warping. It can become misshapen and can stick to its corresponding frame. Eventually, this will result in its premature demise.
Which is More Expensive?
When it comes to cost, wood windows are quite a bit more expensive than vinyl. This is true both of their upfront costs and their maintenance costs.
See, while a vinyl window averages around $200, a wood window averages around $275. When you consider the number of windows that are installed on a home, this can result in hundreds or even thousands of dollars’ worth of difference.
This is the primary reason for vinyl’s popularity. It’s less expensive, and therefore fits more budgets.
Hire an Arlington Heights New Windows and Home Remodeling Company for Your New Windows
Are you looking to hire an Arlington Heights home remodeling company to install your windows for you? If so, Aspen Exterior Company has you covered.
Our team has sold and installed windows on countless homes throughout the Arlington Heights area. Regardless of your window needs, we can accommodate them.
Contact us now for a free estimate!
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