The Pros and Cons of Vinyl vs Wood vs Aluminum Window Frames
Looking to upgrade your windows? Just getting started is challenging. There are different styles, different types of glass, and even different frames. You want to make the best choice, but all the options can be overwhelming. As your Home Improvement experts, our crew at Jim Olivier’s is happy to help choose the best option for your home. Today, we’ll focus on:
CHOOSING THE RIGHT WINDOW FRAME
Most people don’t think of frames when considering new windows, but not all frames are created equal It’s an important decision when renovating or building a home. The three most popular materials used for window frames are vinyl, wood, and aluminum. Each material has its own set of pros and cons to weigh before making a decision. In this blog post, we’ll go over the pros and cons of vinyl, wood, and aluminum window frames to help you make an informed decision.
Vinyl Window Frames
Vinyl window frames are a popular choice for good reason. Their low cost, durability, and energy efficiency make them very appealing to homeowners. For all the reasons below, vinyl window frames are the most popular for new home construction and they are the frame of choice for Jim Olivier’s Home Improvement.
Pros
Affordable: Vinyl window frames are consistently the most affordable option on the market.
Low Maintenance: They require very little maintenance beyond occasional cleaning.
Energy Efficient: Vinyl window frames provide good insulation, which can help reduce energy bills. New construction uses them especially to meet energy star ratings.
Variety of Colors: They are available in a variety of colors and styles to match any home. Wood grain looks, for the interior finish of the window, are available as well.
Durable: Vinyl is more resilient in the wet and humid Acadiana climate.
Cons
Limited Colors: Vinyl window frames cannot be painted, so the color you choose will be permanent. Note: They can be factory painted, but painting by the customer voids the warranty.
Can Warp: CHEAPER vinyl window frames can warp or deform over time, especially if they’re exposed to high temperatures or direct sunlight. BUT… there are varying qualities of vinyl frames, from high grade to lower grade. While they may look the same initially, it’s important to know how the frame is constructed, the thickness, and available warranties.
Wood Window Frames
Wood window frames are a classic choice that can add warmth and beauty to any home. Typically made from pine, cedar, or oak, wood frames and can be stained or painted to match any decor. However, they require more maintenance than vinyl or aluminum frames, which is why Jim Olivier doesn’t use them. While they were the traditional choice in the past (vinyl is now more popular), let’s weigh the pros and cons of wood window frames to see if they’re your best choice.
Pros
Aesthetics: Wood window frames can add the warmth and unique beauty that the other frames lack.
Good Insulation: They provide much better insulation over aluminum window frames, which can help reduce energy bills.
Can Be Painted or Stained: Wood window frames can be painted or stained to match your décor—and you can change the look without replacing them.
Cons
Expensive: Wood window frames are more expensive than vinyl or aluminum.
High Maintenance: Wood window frames require regular maintenance to prevent rotting, warping, etc.
Attracts insects: Especially in wetter climates, like Louisiana, wood can attract termites and more.
Susceptible to Moisture: Wood window frames are susceptible to moisture, which can cause rotting, mold, and decay. Unfortunately, as we said earlier, this is the main reason we don’t recommend this material frame. If you live in Louisiana, it’s hard to escape the moisture.
Aluminum Window Frames
A popular choice for commercial buildings, aluminum window frames are becoming less common in residential homes.
Pros
Strong and Durable: Aluminum window frames are strong and durable and can withstand extreme weather conditions.
Low Maintenance: They require very little maintenance beyond occasional cleaning.
Less expensive: Aluminum frames cost less than wooden window frames.
Cons
Poor Insulation: Metal conducts heat. Our summers get hot. Aluminum window frames provide poor insulation, which can lead to higher energy bills.
Limited Colors: While aluminum window frames can be painted, their range of colors is more limited than wood, as they cannot be stained.
Prone to Condensation: Aluminum window frames are prone to condensation, which can lead to moisture buildup, mold, and eventually rust…not to mention rotten wood.
At Jim Olivier’s Home Improvement, we want you to love your home again. Though you may love the look of wooden window frames or the durability of aluminum window frames, our Acadiana climate makes vinyl window frames the best choice for your home.
Louisiana weather is harsh on your home. For durability, energy efficiency, looks, and minimal maintenance (did we mention the most affordable?) our experts install only vinyl window frames. If you are looking to upgrade your home, lower your energy bill, and worry less about maintaining your window frames, call Jim Olivier’s to schedule your free consultation.
