This is the third article in our series comparing window frame materials. To read our earlier posts, click on:
In our last post we compared vinyl windows with aluminum clad wood windows. Some Minneapolis area homeowners prefer solid wood, and in this post we’ll compare them with the latest in window technology, the fiberglass window.
Wood is a classic material when it comes to choosing windows where fiberglass is relatively new to the market. In this post, you will learn about the differences between the two and hopefully, make choosing a material for your home’s replacement windows much easier for you.
Comparing Wood and Fiberglass Window Frames
Window Appearance
Wood windows have been so popular with homeowners over the years because of the simple, traditional beauty they bring to the home. They give a home an elegant feel, while other windows tend to fall short of bringing in the warmth that wood windows give. They can also be sanded and painted any color you desire, making them a better choice for many homeowners who want more decorating options.
Also, genuine wood windows are often the material of choice for our customers with older or historic homes who want to preserve the look and feel of their home’s original design.
Fiberglass windows might not have the reputation that wood windows have, but they can still bring the aesthetics that the homeowner might be in search of. The Weather Shield EnduraShield window series offer five different exterior color choices, ten interior wood combinations, plus dozens of trim and hardware combinations. With these choices they can still meet the goals that you as a homeowner are trying to achieve.
Maintenance
When it comes to evaluating the care of your windows, if you’re a homeowner in search of the ultimate low maintenance window, then fiberglass windows are for you. Fiberglass windows only require a cleaning once in a while for upkeep.
Wood windows, when maintained properly, can last many years, too. However, they are at risk for rotting and splitting due to their organic nature, and Minnesota climate can be hard on wood. Exterior wood frames require frequent repainting or staining as well as caulking.
Efficiency
Although somewhat similar in insulating value, fiberglass does have a bit of advantage over wood in terms of energy efficiency. Fiberglass does not respond to environmental elements the way that other material windows do. Other windows may expand or contract in hot and cold climates while fiberglass windows stay the same size. That means the frame won’t warp or shrink like wood or other materials might.
No matter what material window you go with – the classic beauty wood windows give or the unbeatable efficiency that fiberglass windows offer – you can contact the professionals at Window Outfitters in MN a call to get a quote on your new wood or fiberglass windows today!
We are a licensed MN replacement window company serving the entire Minneapolis and St. Paul metro area. We install both wood and fiberglass windows from top-quality manufacturers like Marvin and Pella.
Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.
