If you’ve been checking out new windows to replace those old drafty ones, you’ve probably seen that there are a number of different materials that would work in a Minnesota home. The type of material that you choose for your house depends on what you want them to look like, how you want them to perform, and which material appeals the most to you. Compare these three different window materials to find out which might be the best for you to use.
Vinyl Windows
Vinyl has been popular since the 70’s. It is an affordable solution for replacing windows in your home. Vinyl replacement windows come in many different colors, but the color cannot be changed once you choose it. They do expand and contract with the weather outside, which can cause problems, especially here in the Minneapolis area where we get wide temperature swings. But if you’re looking for an economical window that requires very little maintenance other than occasional cleaning, vinyl could be right for you.
Fiberglass Windows
Fiberglass is a more expensive choice than vinyl, but it is extremely durable. It is 100% recyclable, which makes it a green choice for homeowners who are looking for a more eco-friendly window option. However, the performance of fiberglass windows is dependent on the installation. If the installation isn’t done according to the manufacturer’s requirements, the windows are going to perform poorly. Like vinyl, fiberglass windows are very low maintenance, and they aren’t subject to expansion and contraction at the rate that vinyl is.
Wood
Wood is organic, so it is a natural choice. But since wood windows mean trees are being cut down, it’s not as high on the ‘green’ list as fiberglass. With wood windows, you’re able to choose the color that you wish them to be and can change it whenever you’d like through stain or paint. In addition, they are great insulators for the home. They however, do have a lot of upkeep which can cause a problem if you do not want to regularly caulk plus stain or paint. Wood windows are also subject to moisture damage that doesn’t affect vinyl or fiberglass. But many wood windows can be ordered with an exterior low-maintenance cladding that not only reduces window upkeep chores but protects them from weather.
Which window material is right for your home? That’s not an easy question to answer. Factors to evaluate include budget as well as energy-efficiency requirements. If it’s time for new windows at your house, speak with us here at Window Outfitters to find out more regarding the windows that we can install in your home. We install windows from quality window companies like Pella, Hurd and Marvin Windows. We can provide you with many different options that fit well within your home. For a free consultation, give us a call today.
Window Outfitters is THE replacement window company serving the greater Minneapolis metro area, including the communities of Bloomington, Eden Prairie, and Edina.
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.
