Vinyl VS Wood-Clad Windows
Choosing the Right Replacement Window: Vinyl VS Wood-Clad Windows
Installing replacement windows in your home is a smart investment. However, it can be an expensive and confusing process. That's why choosing the right windows for your Alabama home is so important.
The materials used are an important factor in choosing the right windows for your home. The material directly impacts everything about your windows, including:
Energy efficiency
The durability of your windows
The overall look of your home
Today, homeowners are faced with choosing between two common window types: vinyl windows and wood-clad windows.
Vinyl windows offer several benefits over wood and aluminum frames.
Technological advances in window manufacturing have led to the development of wood-clad windows that combine the best aspects of wood with exterior vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass cladding.
Some homeowners swear by vinyl windows, while others claim that wood-clad windows are the best upgrade for outdated wood frame windows. There are several differences between the two, but also many similarities. So how do you know which choice is right for your home?
To help you make an informed decision, we’re covering the pros and cons of vinyl windows versus wood-clad windows in this blog post.
VINYL WINDOWS: AN OVERVIEW
Vinyl windows are the most popular windows on the market. They’re durable, cost-effective, and offer excellent insulating properties. They are easily found in local big-box home improvement stores for the do-it-yourself enthusiast.
Vinyl windows are also one of the oldest types of modern windows. Originally designed as an upgrade over wood frame windows, vinyl offers enhanced protection from moisture and temperature. In the past, older wood frame windows would warp and crack over time, plus they needed frequent upkeep. Repeated exposure to hot and cold weather combined with continual moisture causes wooden windows to degrade over time. For many homeowners, vinyl was the answer.
The Benefits of Vinyl Windows
Vinyl windows have been on the market for decades, and they’re popular among homeowners for many reasons, including:
They are an affordable window option
They come in many styles
They are easy to maintain
WOOD CLAD WINDOWS: AN OVERVIEW
Wood-clad windows are popular with Alabama homeowners because they offer the beauty of natural wood windows combined with a weather-resistant exterior frame.
The Benefits of Wood-Clad Windows
Many customization options
Durability
Increased energy efficiency
Additionally, with wood-clad windows, the low-maintenance cladding on the window's exterior prevents the rot, warping, peeling, and bending that can occur with low-quality, poorly maintained all-wood or vinyl models.
The primary advantage of wood-clad windows is that, unlike wood windows, they require little to no maintenance and will never rot, fade, or warp. Wood-clad windows also offer superior longevity and aesthetically look great, can up your home's curb appeal, and increase the resale value of your home.
The Pros: Vinyl Windows
Vinyl windows are the top choice for many homeowners. Here are some of the reasons why:
Vinyl Windows are Long-Lasting – Vinyl windows are durable, never need painting or staining, and are long-lasting. They avoid common window problems like warping and peeling with minimal maintenance. Simply wipe them down occasionally, and vinyl windows can provide decades of service.
Cost-Effective – When compared to other types of windows, vinyl windows are more cost-effective. Vinyl windows are also available in many colors and styles, so being cost-conscious doesn't mean sacrificing quality.
Style – Vinyl windows are available in various styles, colors, and sizes, so you can get a window that fits your home perfectly. If you can envision the perfect color, you can get exactly what you're looking for!
Energy Efficiency – Modern vinyl windows are known for their energy efficiency. In fact, they are superior to aluminum and wood windows in many instances. Double or triple-pane vinyl windows offer excellent efficiency. For even better energy efficiency, ensure your vinyl windows have inert gasses between the panes.
Environmentally Friendly – Today, we're all trying to live more sustainably. Another benefit of vinyl windows is that they are not only long-lasting but are also recyclable. That means after decades of service, you'll be able to recycle them, minimizing their environmental impact.
The Cons:
The biggest downside with vinyl windows is that they can sometimes have issues when exposed to extreme weather conditions. Here in Alabama, we experience hot, humid summers and occasional freezing temperatures. After years of extreme temperatures, vinyl windows a prone to warping, cracking, and other failures. Vinyl windows also offer good insulating qualities however, in the extreme heat and humidity we experience here in Alabama, they may not be the best choice.
The Pros: Wood Clad Windows
Wood-clad windows offer the best of both worlds. The interior surface is traditional wood paired with a weather-resistant exterior frame making them excellent for withstanding Alabama's extreme weather. Here are some of the benefits you'll enjoy with wood-clad windows:
They Are Aesthetically Beautiful – Nothing is as beautiful as natural wood. Several other materials, like vinyl or fiberglass, try to mimic the beauty of wood but fall far short. Genuine wood on the interior of clad windows has a look and feel unlike any other material. Wood-clad windows come in a variety of wood species.
Excellent Insulation – Wood is a natural insulator. Wood frame windows help block heat transfer and keep your home comfortable, saving money on utility bills year-round. Wood-clad windows hold up to the heat and humidity of an Alabama summer.
Noise Resistance – Along with blocking unwanted heat, natural wood windows can provide a barrier to outside noise. If you live on a busy street, this feature is especially attractive!
Wood Clad Windows are Sustainable – Wood and aluminum cladding are both eco-friendly. Wood is a renewable resource and naturally breaks down into beneficial compounds. Aluminum is recyclable. After years of service, there's no reason these windows should end up in the landfill.
Durable – With proper care and regular maintenance, wood-clad windows can last a lifetime. Extruded aluminum cladding is known for its strength and durability. And the thicker finish on the interior retains its beauty, color, and gloss for years.
Return on Investment – Replacement windows can give up to an 85% return on your investment. Upgrading to wood-clad windows can not only add value, but they can also impress potential buyers and help you sell your home
Customizable – With wood-clad windows, you can customize the interior finish to meet your home's interior design and aesthetic. Plus, the exterior cladding is available in many different colors to meet your home's exterior look.
The Cons:
Cladding comes in several different materials, including extruded aluminum, fiberglass, and vinyl. Low-quality fiberglass cladding is not as strong as other materials and, if not properly finished, can fade in color under high UV rays. Low-quality vinyl cladding is known to change shape when exposed to temperature extremes. It can also peel and crack from weather conditions like rain, snow, or hail.
The Bottom Line...
Vinyl windows offer homeowners many benefits, including a lower price point. However, lower-quality vinyl windows may not stand up to the heat, humidity, and weather extremes here in Alabama.
While wood-clad windows are more expensive, they offer better durability, more flexibility in terms of colors and wood species, superior aesthetics, and a better return on your investment. Typically your choice comes down to your budget and personal style. Wood-clad windows offer superior value and can add to your home's resale value, curb appeal, and comfort!
Understanding your options and the value new windows can bring to your home helps you know what to look for when buying new windows. Choosing new windows for your home is a big decision that adds value, increases security, improves energy efficiency, and provides comfort for you and your family. At Toulmin Windows and Doors, we offer the entire family of high-quality Sierra Pacific products, including a range of vinyl and wood-clad products. Toulmin Windows and Doors and Sierra Pacific stand behind every window we sell!
If you are considering new or replacement windows for your Tuscaloosa, Alabama home, call Toulmin Windows and Doors at (205)579-9793. We are proud to be the top retailer of beautiful Sierra Pacific windows and doors in Alabama. Sierra Pacific offers a broad selection of glazing options, window styles, and the longest warranty in the business! If you are ready to learn more or for a free estimate, call us today! Serving the entire state of Alabama.
