Windows play a very important role in a building. They regulate air circulation between the inside and the outside and ensure that the environment remains fresh. They also have a huge aesthetic value that may either attract or put off potential buyers. Deciding on which material to use for either building or repairs is not an easy task. The main types are vinyl and wooden windows. Both have their own advantages and disadvantages.
Price is one of the most important factors in choosing between wood and vinyl. Vinyl is priced a little lower than wood. Even if the window is made of wood, there is a variation depending on the type of wood used (whether hardwood and softwood). A 36 by 54 inch pine window with double hung and insulated glass, for example, will cost about 270 dollars if the wood is softwood. If hardwood is used the cost is about 2,100 USD.
Wood is a very effective insulator. It is much more effective compared to vinyl. Insulation is an important consideration if a building is built in an area that experiences adverse weather conditions such as very cold winters and very hot summers. During winter it is necessary to prevent loss of heat form the building and during summer it is necessary to prevent excessive heat gain. Weather stripping makes most designs suitable for insulation.
Another important consideration is the theme of the house. A house that is made predominantly of wood would appear better with a wooden window whereas that which has vinyl components (the floor for example) may look better with a vinyl window. Wood can be painted to match the colour of the rest of the house something that is not possible with vinyl. Vinyl is designed in three main colours that include bronze, white and tan.
There are a few other disadvantages of wood other than the relatively higher cost. One of them is the fact they are more difficult to clean. The windows need to be handled with cotton gloves when being cleaned or repaired. If this is not done, they are likely to be spoilt by oil, grease or dirt. Cleaning should be on a regular basis. Vinyl is only cleaned occasionally.
There are other treatments that need to be done to maintain wood quality. A poorly maintained window is susceptible to weathering and rotting. Another problem that should be anticipated is the swelling of the window following imbibing of moisture. This is a common problem in high humidity areas. It hinders the opening and closing of a window if excessive.
The low price of vinyl is probably the greatest reason as to why it is greatly preferred. Other possible explanations include the fact that a vinyl window is easier to fix. Even if one has not made up their minds on which direction to take, it is still possible to have a window made of both wood and vinyl.
One will be well advised to consult with an expert if they plan on changing or repairing their wooden windows. The expert will provide advice on the available options and the pros and cons of each. One will be guided into deciding whether it is a repair or replacement that is necessary in a particular case.
Price is one of the most important factors in choosing between wood and vinyl. Vinyl is priced a little lower than wood. Even if the window is made of wood, there is a variation depending on the type of wood used (whether hardwood and softwood). A 36 by 54 inch pine window with double hung and insulated glass, for example, will cost about 270 dollars if the wood is softwood. If hardwood is used the cost is about 2,100 USD.
Wood is a very effective insulator. It is much more effective compared to vinyl. Insulation is an important consideration if a building is built in an area that experiences adverse weather conditions such as very cold winters and very hot summers. During winter it is necessary to prevent loss of heat form the building and during summer it is necessary to prevent excessive heat gain. Weather stripping makes most designs suitable for insulation.
Another important consideration is the theme of the house. A house that is made predominantly of wood would appear better with a wooden window whereas that which has vinyl components (the floor for example) may look better with a vinyl window. Wood can be painted to match the colour of the rest of the house something that is not possible with vinyl. Vinyl is designed in three main colours that include bronze, white and tan.
There are a few other disadvantages of wood other than the relatively higher cost. One of them is the fact they are more difficult to clean. The windows need to be handled with cotton gloves when being cleaned or repaired. If this is not done, they are likely to be spoilt by oil, grease or dirt. Cleaning should be on a regular basis. Vinyl is only cleaned occasionally.
There are other treatments that need to be done to maintain wood quality. A poorly maintained window is susceptible to weathering and rotting. Another problem that should be anticipated is the swelling of the window following imbibing of moisture. This is a common problem in high humidity areas. It hinders the opening and closing of a window if excessive.
The low price of vinyl is probably the greatest reason as to why it is greatly preferred. Other possible explanations include the fact that a vinyl window is easier to fix. Even if one has not made up their minds on which direction to take, it is still possible to have a window made of both wood and vinyl.
One will be well advised to consult with an expert if they plan on changing or repairing their wooden windows. The expert will provide advice on the available options and the pros and cons of each. One will be guided into deciding whether it is a repair or replacement that is necessary in a particular case.
About the Author:
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