New windows are a great update to add value and enjoyment to your home. New windows provide for increased energy efficiency, can enhance the comfort of your home, and provide a great return on your investment – sometimes as much as 80%. For many homeowners, the question is not if they should replace their windows, but what type of window they should install. Although there are many types of material available, two of the most common materials are wood and vinyl windows. There are advantages and disadvantages to each, but one clearly comes out on top.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Wood Windows
Wooden windows have been a popular choice for many years because they look good and can offer a certain amount of insulation. If your home is older and you want to update its look, a wooden window may be a good choice.
Despite some of these advantages, wood windows do have some drawbacks. First, wood windows tend to rot and are susceptible to water damage. This should cause any homeowner living in areas with heavy precipitation or humidity to think twice about wood. They also are vulnerable to pest infestations, such as termites. Because wood windows are prone to warping, peeling, chipping, and cracking, they need to be repainted and resealed on a regular basis. This type of regular maintenance is necessary to keep wooden windows looking their best and remaining functional. Of course, another potential drawback of wood windows is the cost; when the total cost of maintenance over the lifetime of the product is considered, wood windows can end up quite expensive.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Vinyl Windows
If you want a window that is durable without sacrificing aesthetics, is affordable, and easy to maintain, vinyl windows are the best choice. Vinyl windows come in a variety of styles and colors. And often look just like wood but require next to no maintenance after installation.
One of the biggest advantages vinyl windows have over wood is their resistance to water damage. Vinyl withstands rot better than wood, making it the perfect choice for installation in regions with heavy rainfall or humidity. Vinyl is also resistant to pests, such as termites. This means vinyl is easier and cheaper to maintain than wood. With vinyl windows requiring little more than an occasional wipe down with a wet cloth. Vinyl can also hold up more easily in extreme temperatures than wood. Making vinyl the best choice for installation in hot or cold climates. Because vinyl windows are made from high-quality extruded PVC, they never need to be repainted or restained, which also contributes to its low cost of maintenance.
Energy Efficiency
Properly installed vinyl windows also have benefits in terms of energy efficiency. This is because the PVC material used in manufacturing vinyl windows has a high R-value, which equates to greater insulation performance. Vinyl is highly effective at maintaining heat and cold, which always keeps your home more comfortable. As far as cost goes, vinyl windows offer great advantages over wood as well. Wood windows generally are about 15% more expensive to replace than vinyl. And can be even costlier for more expensive woods, such as mahogany. The fact that vinyl windows require less maintenance and do not need to be repainted or resealed over the lifetime of the product also contributes to their overall affordability. Another benefit of vinyl windows is the ROI. These windows produce an even higher return than wood, making them a smart choice for a home renovation project.
Quality Manufacturer
One factor that should be taken into consideration however is to make sure the windows you buy are from a quality manufacturer and reputable supplier. Low-quality manufactured vinyl windows will not be as reliable or efficient as those that come from a reputable vinyl window manufacturer.
When it comes to vinyl windows, there are not many disadvantages. Vinyl windows are affordable, energy-efficient, and low-maintenance. While wood windows require expensive repair or replacement over the lifetime of the product. For homeowners trying to decide which type of window to use, vinyl windows are clearly superior.
If you’re looking for quality vinyl windows that look great and are affordable contact Optimal Windows today. We are the window installation experts in the Dallas/Plano area. We provide comprehensive window consultations, and are dedicated to complete customer satisfaction. To learn more about our replacement windows and patio doors that are available for Dallas homes, call us at (972) 768-1999.
