Two of the most common types of windows out there are wood and vinyl. If you are torn between the two, we think this comparison might help you with your final decision.
Wood Windows
Wood is one of the most beautiful window options that you can install. However, it’s also the choice with the most maintenance. Although it can last quite a while when kept properly coated and cleaned, it will rot, crack, fade or become unstable if you fall behind on yearly maintenance. Overall, it won’t last quite as long as vinyl, and most warranties only cover the frame for 10 years, and the glass for 20.
Commonly constructed from wood of species like oak, Douglas fir, spruce, pine and cedar, wood windows have a huge advantage in that no two windows are exactly alike. There will always be subtle differences in the pattern of grain, and the color, should you opt for staining instead of painting. Although wood is the top choice for aesthetics, it leaves much to be desired in terms of durability and easy maintenance.
Vinyl Windows
The second most popular option for replacement window installation is vinyl. It’s reasonably priced, has wide availability and performs excellently. Many vinyl windows also have a built-in draining system to avoid standing water in the frame after the latest round of Minnesota storms. However, even basic vinyl windows come with 50-year or lifetime warranties, thanks to their durability. One drawback vinyl windows have is that regardless of how much work is put into faux wood finishes, they will never have quite the same look or feel as real wood does. Vinyl still outpaces wood in all other categories, though.
If you’re looking for an experienced window contractor to put your new vinyl windows in, Windows Outfitters installs vinyl windows from such quality companies as Hurd, Unlimited, WeatherShield, and Lindsey. But if you’ve got your heart set on wood frames, we also carry those as well.
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.
