Wood vs Vinyl: Which New Window Material is Best for You?

wood-vs-winyl-windows-home

Wood vs Vinyl: Which New Window Material is Best for You?

Perhaps your windows have seen better days? Maybe they’re deteriorating at a rapid rate? In any case, you’re looking to make a window replacement in Wheeling. Now all that’s left to do is to pick a window material.

There are two primary window materials to choose from: wood and vinyl. Both materials have their merits, but their drawbacks as well.

To help you decide which is best for your home, we’re going to discuss the characteristics of both below. Let’s go!

Vinyl Pros:

Durable

Perhaps the biggest benefit of vinyl windows is that they’re durable. Generally, vinyl windows will last for between 20 and 40 years. In most cases, only small amounts of maintenance will be needed to achieve this duration of use.

Low-maintenance

There is very little maintenance needed in the upkeep of vinyl windows. Generally, all these windows will need is a basic cleaning every once in a while. Soap, water, and a clean rag will get the job done.

Cost-Effective

Vinyl windows are hugely popular among homeowners. The reason for this? Their low price likely has a lot to do with it. Not only are vinyl windows inexpensive upon initial purchase, but, (thanks to the fact that they require little maintenance) over time as well.

Vinyl Cons:

Lacks Insulation

When it comes to energy efficiency, vinyl windows are not as effective as wood. While some advancements have been made in the insulative qualities of vinyl frames, there is still a long way to go. At the present time, wood windows are much more energy efficient than vinyl windows.

Limited Aesthetic

While vinyl windows are far from ugly, they aren’t exactly aesthetic marvels either. Most would agree that vinyl lacks the elegance present in wood windows. Not to mention, vinyl window frames can’t be painted. The style you choose in a vinyl frame is the look you’ll have for the next few decades.

Wood Pros:

Aesthetically Pleasing

One of the major benefits of wood windows is that they’re aesthetically pleasing. Rustic and elegant, they provide an instant aesthetic enhancement to any home where they’re installed. If you’re trying to provide your home with a feeling of prestige, wood windows will certainly help.

Can Be Painted

Unlike vinyl windows, wood windows can be painted. This means that you can customize them to be essentially any color you wish. Tired of white? You could switch to blue. Tired of the rustic look? You could go with a waterproof wood stain. Because wood windows can be painted, they are open to endless aesthetic modifications.

Energy Efficient

When compared to vinyl, it’s not even close: wood windows are much more insulative. The result of this? Less energy usage, and less costly energy bills. Therefore, while wood windows may cost you more initially, they will actually save you a good deal of money over time.

Wood Cons:

Maintenance Heavy

Wood windows are highly susceptible to sun and water damage. Because of this, in order to remain in good shape, they require regular maintenance. Wood window maintenance not only includes cleaning, but sanding, repainting, and restaining as well. If you don’t have the means or the desire to complete this level of maintenance, you may want to opt for a different window material.

Expensive

There’s no way around it: wood windows are more expensive than vinyl windows. Not only do they have a higher upfront cost, but a higher cost over time as well. After all, those maintenance costs can add up.

Looking to Install New Windows in Wheeling?

Have you made a choice between wood and vinyl? Looking to install new windows in Wheeling? If so, Aspen Exterior Company can help.

Featuring a team of highly skilled and experienced home remodelers, we’ve helped thousands of homeowners install new windows on their homes. Whether you opt for wood or vinyl windows, we’re the people to see.

Contact us now to schedule an appointment!

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