Deciding on what type of windows to buy for your house is a challenge. From vinyl to traditional wood windows, the decision boils down to whether or not the window is worth it. You might be thinking of it in terms of price, longevity, design or all of the above.
Windows made of wood are popular mainly because of their aesthetic appeal. However, the value of a window type means more than just looks. In real-life, windows are constantly exposed to the environment. Environmental pollution, humidity, temperature changes and sun exposure can all lead to the degradation of your window. Choosing a “worth it” window means looking for one that can withstand these factors while looking good.
If you’re considering wood windows for your home, here’s a helpful rundown of the features that can make it a great asset or a big risk.
The Cons of Getting Wooden Windows
Many people are convinced that getting wooden windows is more trouble than its worth. Here are some of the common reasons why people say no to getting wooden windows.
#1: Wood Windows Need Paint
Wood needs a good coating of paint to survive through the years. Without the protective layer, wood will easily rot and look old. They can also start absorbing moisture from the environment, so the frame will start expanding. This leads to problems in opening or closing the window.
#2: Getting Wooden Windows Costs a Lot
The initial cost of getting wooden windows is admittedly much higher compared to windows made of other materials. But you also need to consider long-term costs. Though wooden windows require more resources initially, you won’t need to pay as much in maintenance and repair in the future.
There are also varying prices for different kinds of timber for wooden windows. For example, maple is relatively cheap, while mahogany is the most expensive wood used for windows.
The Pros of Getting Wooden Windows
The many advantages of wooden windows can make them incredibly worth-it investments. Even though wooden windows can seem more expensive at a glance, the benefits you get make them a good buy.
The comparative advantages of wooden windows include more than just the traditional finish and looks. Depending on the exact type and your personal maintenance of the window, wooden windows can go a long way. Timber is also easily available.
The following benefits can help you assess the pros of getting wooden windows.
#1: Wooden Windows Look Great
Despite changing trends, windows made of wood remain popular in the market. It doesn’t matter what season it is. Many people choose wooden windows over vinyl and other materials because of the unique look it adds to a home.
Wood looks elegant and warm when crafted into a wood frame. The natural beauty of wooden frames are so unique that many other window types try to mimic the pattern.
The aesthetic appeal of wooden windows are perfect for old or traditional homes. The craftsmanship can blend right in. It can also be a great contrast for more modern homes.
Lastly, choosing wood provides a variety of customized design options. You can choose to paint the frame different colors. You can tailor the look by selecting a certain kind of wood, like maple or oak. You can even have them carved for an even more unique look.
#2: Wood Aids in Insulation
Wood is a bad conductor of heat, making it a great insulator. Aside from its function as a window frame, the wood will also provide 400 times more insulation than steel.
This is a big “worth it” factor because you can save a lot of money from this. You can keep your home warmer in the winter without spending as much on utilities.
#3: Wood Windows Last Longer
You might think that wooden windows are bound to rot fast and dirty. But wooden windows can actually last longer than their vinyl or metal counterparts. You can get better value for your money in the long run.
Proper care and maintenance of your window frame can make your timber window frames last for more than 30 years. On the other hand, metal frames are prone to rust – a bad deal when there’s high humidity.
Since you don’t need to replace your windows as often, you’re saving a lot of money. The initial expense is worth it. Also, you don’t even need to pay that much when it comes to regular maintenance and repair.
Wood Window Maintenance with Glass King
According to a study comparing the different window materials, timber windows are easy to repair, though they can be high maintenance. On the other hand, aluminum-clad or treated wood windows are both low maintenance and easy to repair. In fact, well-treated wood can require almost no external maintenance.
At the end of the day, whether or not the benefits outweigh the risks boils down to how well you can maintain your wood, vinyl or steel window. With the right maintenance practices and repair team, you don’t even need to worry about long-term care for your windows. Any type of window can be worth its price with proper care.
Glass King is one of the leading home window repair specialists in the entire Phoenix Metro area. With their services, you don’t need to worry about repairing or replacing your home windows. You can enjoy the beautiful looks and the insulation capacities of wood windows, and at the same time be secure in your investment. With Glass King, your windows will last a long time. Call us today at (480) 389-5656!
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