Wood has been a traditional material for windows for centuries. There are some advantages to wood windows. They can be painted or stained to match your interior décor, they can look as nice as furniture, and they fit well into historic renovations. The downside of wood is that it is susceptible to damage from excessive moisture (it can warp or rot), excessive dryness (it can crack or split) and it does require some type of sealing to make it last long term.
The major disadvantage to wood windows is that they necessitate regular maintenance. A small number of high end wood-window makers use rot-resistant species such as mahogany, but most domestically-manufactured windows are made from less-resistant species such as pine. However, a properly maintained wood window can last a hundred years.
The Advantages of Wood Windows
The wood windows on the market today are primarily designed for new construction. With new construction windows, you install the window in a new opening, and install new exterior and interior trim. New construction windows work well when you are gutting the home, since they generally are made standard sizes, and you must make your openings fit the stock window sizes available from the manufacturer. Some window manufactures will make custom sized windows, although this can add substantially to the cost per window. You will also have the cost of buying and installing the new trim. There are a few regional manufactures that make custom size wood windows to order as their normal procedure (for example TrimLine Windows).
Although these may be higher end windows, you will not pay custom size charges. These windows are true "pocket replacement windows" meaning they are designed to fit into the 3 _ inch space where the old wood sashes were removed from. With this type of installation, you will not be forced to replace the trim on the interior and exterior. Now you can get the advantages of a wood window without the installation problems.
Friday, March 12, 2010
Composite Windows
Composite material is a mixture of substances such as ground-up vinyl with sawdust or wood chips, with epoxy as the binding agent. Some manufacturers use recycled plastic or vinyl to make their composite windows. Composite material is made by mixing ground up vinyl with sawdust and combining the resultant mixture with epoxy binders. The result is a strong material resistant to wear and tear. Most windows that use composites in them use them in conjunction with other materials. Composites are relatively new on the market and are typically more expensive due to the low market share. Only time will tell if they are accepted in the marketplace.
Composite windows are not only strong, but resistant to wear-and-tear. They are thermally similar to wood windows, but are resistant to rot, warping, and insects, as well as heat and moisture. They are dimensionally stable and feature a low rate of air leakage.
The Advantages of Composite Windows
Composite windows are relatively new, and relatively expensive within the replacement window market. They are typically more expensive than vinyl but less expensive than clad wood. Composite windows are another option for homeowners who want the look of wood without the expense.
As composites were introduced in the 1990s, the jury is still out on their long-term performance and benefits. It is recommended that you look for composite windows with heat-welded rather than fastened joints and color consistency throughout the frame.
In the past few years, vinyl windows and cellular PVC have become some of the most popular types of replacement windows. While their cost is a big selling point, they do have their advantages and disadvantages. Take care while weighing your options, and be sure to consider factors other than cost. There are many forums on the internet where homeowners share their uncensored experiences as well. Call several professional window companies to discuss your project and concerns and find price quotes.
Composite windows are not only strong, but resistant to wear-and-tear. They are thermally similar to wood windows, but are resistant to rot, warping, and insects, as well as heat and moisture. They are dimensionally stable and feature a low rate of air leakage.
The Advantages of Composite Windows
Composite windows are relatively new, and relatively expensive within the replacement window market. They are typically more expensive than vinyl but less expensive than clad wood. Composite windows are another option for homeowners who want the look of wood without the expense.
As composites were introduced in the 1990s, the jury is still out on their long-term performance and benefits. It is recommended that you look for composite windows with heat-welded rather than fastened joints and color consistency throughout the frame.
In the past few years, vinyl windows and cellular PVC have become some of the most popular types of replacement windows. While their cost is a big selling point, they do have their advantages and disadvantages. Take care while weighing your options, and be sure to consider factors other than cost. There are many forums on the internet where homeowners share their uncensored experiences as well. Call several professional window companies to discuss your project and concerns and find price quotes.
Steel Windows are Versatile
The Versatility of Steel Windows
From contemporary structures to gothic themes, steel frames can be found everywhere. The list of modern structures that use steel frames is endless. Municipal buildings, churches, museums, commercial offices, universities, schools, bus stations, airports, hospitals, retail stores, a residential homes to name a few. They can be used on the exterior and interior of buildings. Replacing Steel Windows and Doors
Steel windows and doorframes are an ideal choice for renovation projects. New steel frames, which offer state of the art finishing pretreatment, factory applied finishes, upgraded weatherstripping, new muntin designs, and high performance glass, can be matched perfectly to your original frames. If your original frames are wood, you can replace them with steel frames that can be designed to give you the same aesthetic feel. In addition, with steel frames, you will get greater durability and improved sight lines.
Installation
Steel window frames and doorframes can provide a problem-free installation. No longer will you have to deal with racked, inoperable, or otherwise damaged windows that can cause expensive project delays. Alternative materials may arrive at the job site with structural defects that can be avoided by using steel. Additionally, steel frames can be installed easily and economically, and will often add to the integrity of the overall structure.
Narrow Sightlines
Narrow sightlines define steel frames more than any of the other qualities listed above. They provide a unique look that has been incorporated into nearly every form of architecture throughout history. The strength of steel allows for this distinctive appearance, which cannot be achieved through the use of aluminum, wood, or vinyl alternatives.
Steel window frames and doorframes provide a number of benefits to your building or home. Strength, durability, versatility, easy replacement, easy installation, and a look all its own, make steel the obvious choice for any architectural style.
From contemporary structures to gothic themes, steel frames can be found everywhere. The list of modern structures that use steel frames is endless. Municipal buildings, churches, museums, commercial offices, universities, schools, bus stations, airports, hospitals, retail stores, a residential homes to name a few. They can be used on the exterior and interior of buildings. Replacing Steel Windows and Doors
Steel windows and doorframes are an ideal choice for renovation projects. New steel frames, which offer state of the art finishing pretreatment, factory applied finishes, upgraded weatherstripping, new muntin designs, and high performance glass, can be matched perfectly to your original frames. If your original frames are wood, you can replace them with steel frames that can be designed to give you the same aesthetic feel. In addition, with steel frames, you will get greater durability and improved sight lines.
Installation
Steel window frames and doorframes can provide a problem-free installation. No longer will you have to deal with racked, inoperable, or otherwise damaged windows that can cause expensive project delays. Alternative materials may arrive at the job site with structural defects that can be avoided by using steel. Additionally, steel frames can be installed easily and economically, and will often add to the integrity of the overall structure.
Narrow Sightlines
Narrow sightlines define steel frames more than any of the other qualities listed above. They provide a unique look that has been incorporated into nearly every form of architecture throughout history. The strength of steel allows for this distinctive appearance, which cannot be achieved through the use of aluminum, wood, or vinyl alternatives.
Steel window frames and doorframes provide a number of benefits to your building or home. Strength, durability, versatility, easy replacement, easy installation, and a look all its own, make steel the obvious choice for any architectural style.
Steel Windows
Steel window frames and doorframes have been incorporated into architecture for hundreds of years. Architects have used the strength, durability, narrow sightlines, and versatility of steel frames to create a distinctive, unique look in their buildings. Today, steel frame’s ease of installation and ease of replacement make them the ideal choice for your home.
The Benefits of Steel Window Frames
Steel window frames and doorframes have been incorporated into architecture for hundreds of years. Architects have used the strength, durability, narrow sightlines, and versatility of steel frames to create a distinctive, unique look in their buildings. Today, steel frame’s ease of installation and ease of replacement make them the ideal choice for your home.
Strength of Steel
There is no other material that provides an equal strength to steel in your home construction. Steel is three times stronger than aluminum, allowing the use of immense glass lights. The strength of the material allows you to maintain narrow sight lines, while still creating spectacular openings to your home.
Additionally, hardware that is fastened to your steel frames will stay in place. There is no distortion or racking of the ventilators with age.
Durability of Steel Window Frames
Steel door and window frames have lasted in buildings in the U.S. and Europe for generations. The durability of steel allows for windows and doors to have lasted for over a century in classic architecture examples around the world. Steel is more durable than virtually any other alternative building material.
Homeowners desire for new glazing, finishing, or ventilator technology causes some highly functional steel frames to be replaced in certain cases. Fortunately, the durability and flexibility of steel allows for historic frames to be replaced easily.
The Benefits of Steel Window Frames
Steel window frames and doorframes have been incorporated into architecture for hundreds of years. Architects have used the strength, durability, narrow sightlines, and versatility of steel frames to create a distinctive, unique look in their buildings. Today, steel frame’s ease of installation and ease of replacement make them the ideal choice for your home.
Strength of Steel
There is no other material that provides an equal strength to steel in your home construction. Steel is three times stronger than aluminum, allowing the use of immense glass lights. The strength of the material allows you to maintain narrow sight lines, while still creating spectacular openings to your home.
Additionally, hardware that is fastened to your steel frames will stay in place. There is no distortion or racking of the ventilators with age.
Durability of Steel Window Frames
Steel door and window frames have lasted in buildings in the U.S. and Europe for generations. The durability of steel allows for windows and doors to have lasted for over a century in classic architecture examples around the world. Steel is more durable than virtually any other alternative building material.
Homeowners desire for new glazing, finishing, or ventilator technology causes some highly functional steel frames to be replaced in certain cases. Fortunately, the durability and flexibility of steel allows for historic frames to be replaced easily.
Vinyl Windows
Vinyl Replacement Windows
Vinyl windows are an extremely popular choice for residential window frames. Constructed of polyvinyl chloride, a compound very similar to plastic, vinyl replacement windows provide durability, are highly energy-efficient and require little maintenance.
Advantages of Vinyl Replacement Windows
Heating and Cooling Costs: Vinyl replacement windows can significantly save on heating and cooling costs. With a relatively high R-value, vinyl is a poor conductor of heat and cold (unlike aluminum) and this translates into excellent energy efficiency. Vinyl replacement windows keeps the heat in during winter and keeps it out during the summer.
Variety and Colors: Vinyl windows now come in a huge variety of designs (from small casement windows to curved bay windows), colors and shades, meaning you no longer have to paint them to match your primary or secondary home color.
Durability: Built-in color makes vinyl windows resistant to scratching. In addition, they are highly resistant to corrosion, chipping, rotting and rusting. Vinyl windows do not need to be scraped or stained and stand up well to normal climate and weather over time.
Price / Cost: Perhaps the number one reason that vinyl windows are the most popular window frame is price. They run the gamut in price, from the cheapest on the market to mid range for premium, custom shaped vinyl windows. Whatever your budget, there is a vinyl window frame that suits your economic needs. For additional cost information, visit our vinyl replacement window pricing page.
Environmentally Friendly: While wood windows are often cast as the environmentally friendly window frame choice, vinyl replacement windows use less energy and emits less greenhouse gases in production, maximizes energy efficiency while in use, and can easily be recycled when you are finally ready for your next set of replacement windows.
Manufacturers: Just about every major replacement window manufacturer has a line of vinyl windows.
Disadvantages of Vinyl Replacement Windows
Like each window frame type, vinyl replacement windows do have several downsides. First, they can discolor when exposed to extreme hot or cold weather climates. Second, they can warp in extremely hot climates. Vinyl windows also tend to be more difficult to shape vs. aluminum windows. Because vinyl has a very low mass, it is less effective as aluminum windows at blocking noise and therefore must be thicker in volume to perform the same noise abatement as aluminum. Finally, most of the newer vinyl windows can't be painted, meaning once you buy them, you're stuck with the color.
Vinyl windows are an extremely popular choice for residential window frames. Constructed of polyvinyl chloride, a compound very similar to plastic, vinyl replacement windows provide durability, are highly energy-efficient and require little maintenance.
Advantages of Vinyl Replacement Windows
Heating and Cooling Costs: Vinyl replacement windows can significantly save on heating and cooling costs. With a relatively high R-value, vinyl is a poor conductor of heat and cold (unlike aluminum) and this translates into excellent energy efficiency. Vinyl replacement windows keeps the heat in during winter and keeps it out during the summer.
Variety and Colors: Vinyl windows now come in a huge variety of designs (from small casement windows to curved bay windows), colors and shades, meaning you no longer have to paint them to match your primary or secondary home color.
Durability: Built-in color makes vinyl windows resistant to scratching. In addition, they are highly resistant to corrosion, chipping, rotting and rusting. Vinyl windows do not need to be scraped or stained and stand up well to normal climate and weather over time.
Price / Cost: Perhaps the number one reason that vinyl windows are the most popular window frame is price. They run the gamut in price, from the cheapest on the market to mid range for premium, custom shaped vinyl windows. Whatever your budget, there is a vinyl window frame that suits your economic needs. For additional cost information, visit our vinyl replacement window pricing page.
Environmentally Friendly: While wood windows are often cast as the environmentally friendly window frame choice, vinyl replacement windows use less energy and emits less greenhouse gases in production, maximizes energy efficiency while in use, and can easily be recycled when you are finally ready for your next set of replacement windows.
Manufacturers: Just about every major replacement window manufacturer has a line of vinyl windows.
Disadvantages of Vinyl Replacement Windows
Like each window frame type, vinyl replacement windows do have several downsides. First, they can discolor when exposed to extreme hot or cold weather climates. Second, they can warp in extremely hot climates. Vinyl windows also tend to be more difficult to shape vs. aluminum windows. Because vinyl has a very low mass, it is less effective as aluminum windows at blocking noise and therefore must be thicker in volume to perform the same noise abatement as aluminum. Finally, most of the newer vinyl windows can't be painted, meaning once you buy them, you're stuck with the color.
Aluminum Windows
Aluminum replacement windows are versatile, come a wide variety of pre-set and custom shapes and designs and can be painted nearly any color. They are attractive, although they have an industrial or commercial look to them. Aluminum windows are very durable, have great strength (allowing a thin frame) and are effective at blocking out sound. They require little maintenance, are easy to clean, and very resistant to dents, cracking and breaking. Aluminum is a good choice for mild climates, while not recommended as much for severely hot or cold climates.
Advantages of Aluminum Replacement Windows
Strength / Durability: Aluminum is three times as strong as vinyl window frames. Once properly fitted to a window, an aluminum window is very tough to loosen or dislodge.
Price / Cost: Aluminum window cost falls somewhere in the middle of the price spectrum - not as expensive as wood windows, equivalent to the mid to upper price range for vinyl replacement windows. For more on window pricing, see our replacement window cost estimator.
Maintenance: Aluminum windows require little maintenance and are very resistant to rust, cracking, splitting or shrinking.
Variety and Colors: Aluminum windows are available in a wide array of colors and sizes. Although aluminum window manufacturers are less common than vinyl window manufacturers, there are still
Market Share: For the most part, aluminum windows are nice looking , although it is somewhat industrial or commercial looking compare to vinyl replacement windows. In fact, aluminum windows have a huge market share when it comes to commercial buildings. As for the residential market, aluminum window's share of the market has dwindled significantly over the past 20 years.
Reducing Noise: Because Aluminum windows have more mass vs. vinyl windows, they will stop more external noise from reaching the interior of a home. Aluminum is nearly 3 times heavier than vinyl (and much stronger.)
Manufacturers: Amsco, Atrium Windows & Doors, Champion Windows, Gentek, Milgard Windows, Napco., Pella, Reynolds Mfg., Traco and many others.
Weaknesses of Aluminum Replacement Windows
Aluminum windows have one huge drawback -- they are great conductors of heat and cold and are therefore extremely poor when it comes to energy-efficiency. For this reason, aluminum windows are used primarily for commercial buildings and applications. Many builders are willing to sacrifice the heat loss/gain for the strength that aluminum window frames offer for large window openings.
Advantages of Aluminum Replacement Windows
Strength / Durability: Aluminum is three times as strong as vinyl window frames. Once properly fitted to a window, an aluminum window is very tough to loosen or dislodge.
Price / Cost: Aluminum window cost falls somewhere in the middle of the price spectrum - not as expensive as wood windows, equivalent to the mid to upper price range for vinyl replacement windows. For more on window pricing, see our replacement window cost estimator.
Maintenance: Aluminum windows require little maintenance and are very resistant to rust, cracking, splitting or shrinking.
Variety and Colors: Aluminum windows are available in a wide array of colors and sizes. Although aluminum window manufacturers are less common than vinyl window manufacturers, there are still
Market Share: For the most part, aluminum windows are nice looking , although it is somewhat industrial or commercial looking compare to vinyl replacement windows. In fact, aluminum windows have a huge market share when it comes to commercial buildings. As for the residential market, aluminum window's share of the market has dwindled significantly over the past 20 years.
Reducing Noise: Because Aluminum windows have more mass vs. vinyl windows, they will stop more external noise from reaching the interior of a home. Aluminum is nearly 3 times heavier than vinyl (and much stronger.)
Manufacturers: Amsco, Atrium Windows & Doors, Champion Windows, Gentek, Milgard Windows, Napco., Pella, Reynolds Mfg., Traco and many others.
Weaknesses of Aluminum Replacement Windows
Aluminum windows have one huge drawback -- they are great conductors of heat and cold and are therefore extremely poor when it comes to energy-efficiency. For this reason, aluminum windows are used primarily for commercial buildings and applications. Many builders are willing to sacrifice the heat loss/gain for the strength that aluminum window frames offer for large window openings.
Wednesday, March 3, 2010
Insulated Window Headers
When you consider that the typical home may have several dozen square feet of header area, replacing the headers at the same time you replace your windows could radically improve your home's overall thermal performance.
In fact, replacing the solid headers above windows and doors with insulated headers can significantly increase the R-value of your walls, almost tripling it in some cases. Insulated headers can do this because they utilize technology from another innovative construction method called Structural Insulated Panels, or SIPs.
This SIPs-influenced process uses machine stress-rated wood flanges with a layer of EPS foam insulation and places them between two OSB web panels. This creates lightweight, insulated headers with a thermal break that also maintains structural integrity. It also produces a strong and cost-effective alternative to beam headers.
The window manufacturers claim that insulated headers are not only straighter, but also more dimensionally stable. Insulated headers are also less prone to the stress of contraction and expansion that plagues solid headers, so they are more resistant to the shrinking, warping, and distorting that causes drywall to crack in conventionally framed headers.
Insulated headers come in multiple depths and widths, suitable for both 2x4 and 2x6 framing, and they can also be factory cut to builder specs. They are single-piece units and don't require any additional installation labor. It only takes one person to install them and the quick-and-easy process is similar to installing regular headers (they rest on jack studs). Insulated headers do not twist, split, or warp during replacement window installation.
Insulated headers can replace doubled 2x12s up to 22-foot spans (depending on the load). They are more expensive than regular solid beam headers, but the short-term cost increase in materials can be offset by the fact that there is less insulation to buy due to the integral foam core, lower labor costs as a result of the ease of installation, and of course long-term energy savings.
In fact, replacing the solid headers above windows and doors with insulated headers can significantly increase the R-value of your walls, almost tripling it in some cases. Insulated headers can do this because they utilize technology from another innovative construction method called Structural Insulated Panels, or SIPs.
This SIPs-influenced process uses machine stress-rated wood flanges with a layer of EPS foam insulation and places them between two OSB web panels. This creates lightweight, insulated headers with a thermal break that also maintains structural integrity. It also produces a strong and cost-effective alternative to beam headers.
The window manufacturers claim that insulated headers are not only straighter, but also more dimensionally stable. Insulated headers are also less prone to the stress of contraction and expansion that plagues solid headers, so they are more resistant to the shrinking, warping, and distorting that causes drywall to crack in conventionally framed headers.
Insulated headers come in multiple depths and widths, suitable for both 2x4 and 2x6 framing, and they can also be factory cut to builder specs. They are single-piece units and don't require any additional installation labor. It only takes one person to install them and the quick-and-easy process is similar to installing regular headers (they rest on jack studs). Insulated headers do not twist, split, or warp during replacement window installation.
Insulated headers can replace doubled 2x12s up to 22-foot spans (depending on the load). They are more expensive than regular solid beam headers, but the short-term cost increase in materials can be offset by the fact that there is less insulation to buy due to the integral foam core, lower labor costs as a result of the ease of installation, and of course long-term energy savings.
Fiber Glass Window Replacements
Fiberglass Windows - Fiberglass windows are one of the newer window choices, and a viable 'green' alternative for those concerned with the offgassing involved with vinyl. Fiberglass windows are made with post-consumer recycled glass (about 60%) and are durable, long-lasting, paintable, and very strong. They won't rot, warp, shrink, sag, or become brittle.
Features - As with other window frame options, fiberglass windows offer consumers maximum customizability. Homeowners can get fiberglass windows in just about any shape, style, and size and with any combination of gas fills, low-E coatings, grids, and so on. Hardware and window accessories also offer a broad range of stylish, convenient, and safety-oriented choices.
Energy Ffficiency - A fiberglass frame is just as efficient as a vinyl frame. However, fiberglass windows are typically built with metal spacers with rubber gaskets. These types of spacers are less energy efficient than the no- metal "super spacers" generally used with vinyl windows. In the big picture, though, super spacers are less effective at combating heat transfer than gas fills and low-E coatings, and they are a more expensive feature as well. For most budget-oriented consumers, that makes fiberglass windows just as efficient as vinyl windows.
Cost - Fiberglass windows are very strong, and very durable. As a result, they are usually priced higher than vinyl windows. The cost of fiberglass windows can vary considerably, depending on the manufacturer, so some comparison shopping is recommended. Though more expensive than vinyl, fiberglass windows are still considered a mid- priced window.
Fiberglass windows offer homeowners many more options than most vinyl windows. Fiberglass windows can be painted, which means endless color choices. However, with more flexibility comes more responsibility. Homeowners who choose fiberglass windows may end up repainting their windows out of necessity rather than choice, as paint colors fade and weather over time. The fiberglass frames themselves, however, are stable and rust and weather resistant.
Features - As with other window frame options, fiberglass windows offer consumers maximum customizability. Homeowners can get fiberglass windows in just about any shape, style, and size and with any combination of gas fills, low-E coatings, grids, and so on. Hardware and window accessories also offer a broad range of stylish, convenient, and safety-oriented choices.
Energy Ffficiency - A fiberglass frame is just as efficient as a vinyl frame. However, fiberglass windows are typically built with metal spacers with rubber gaskets. These types of spacers are less energy efficient than the no- metal "super spacers" generally used with vinyl windows. In the big picture, though, super spacers are less effective at combating heat transfer than gas fills and low-E coatings, and they are a more expensive feature as well. For most budget-oriented consumers, that makes fiberglass windows just as efficient as vinyl windows.
Cost - Fiberglass windows are very strong, and very durable. As a result, they are usually priced higher than vinyl windows. The cost of fiberglass windows can vary considerably, depending on the manufacturer, so some comparison shopping is recommended. Though more expensive than vinyl, fiberglass windows are still considered a mid- priced window.
Fiberglass windows offer homeowners many more options than most vinyl windows. Fiberglass windows can be painted, which means endless color choices. However, with more flexibility comes more responsibility. Homeowners who choose fiberglass windows may end up repainting their windows out of necessity rather than choice, as paint colors fade and weather over time. The fiberglass frames themselves, however, are stable and rust and weather resistant.
More on PVC Cellular Windows
Most homeowners will tell you that their mantra seems to be 'maintenance, rot, repair.' Siding and roofs get repaired and replaced, windows rot, and trimboards deteriorate. It happens over time, usually decades, but even with all the time and effort spent assessing and maintaining, the rot and repair phase seems to come all too soon. When it does, the expense can be overwhelming.
At this juncture, many homeowners opt for the cheapest alternative. It's appealing from a financial perspective, but you get what you pay for, as the old adage goes. As far as performance and quality go, you may find yourself in the exact same position much sooner than you expected.
The high-performance options may cost more up front, but over time they will save you more money on your utility bills, and also by way of less frequent maintenance and repair problems. Moreover, they boost a home's value and can become major selling points, especially in leaner times.
Even if your budget is tight, you should consider the long-term scenario and make a careful decision. Consider all the factors, including appreciation and performance as well as cost. Never make a decision based solely on your bank account – you'll regret it later when the cheap materials fail and you wind up making the same repair a second time. A home is a long-range investment, and every decision about its upkeep should be made from the same perspective.
At this juncture, many homeowners opt for the cheapest alternative. It's appealing from a financial perspective, but you get what you pay for, as the old adage goes. As far as performance and quality go, you may find yourself in the exact same position much sooner than you expected.
The high-performance options may cost more up front, but over time they will save you more money on your utility bills, and also by way of less frequent maintenance and repair problems. Moreover, they boost a home's value and can become major selling points, especially in leaner times.
Even if your budget is tight, you should consider the long-term scenario and make a careful decision. Consider all the factors, including appreciation and performance as well as cost. Never make a decision based solely on your bank account – you'll regret it later when the cheap materials fail and you wind up making the same repair a second time. A home is a long-range investment, and every decision about its upkeep should be made from the same perspective.
Cellular PVC Windows Appreciate Your Home's Value
Almost every home improvement you make to your home increases its value. Generally speaking, the larger or more expensive the improvement, the more the value will increase. In other words, when it comes to improvements such as replacing windows or siding, a better quality of material will actually increase your home's overall value.
If you plan on living in your home for some time after making the improvement, you will also reap the benefits that way as well, enjoying your new deck, bigger kitchen, or lower utility bills. Often it's best to keep the big picture in mind, and consider the long-term benefits rather than just the short-term savings.
Wear and tear - Newer, man-made materials such as no-rot composites and cellular PVC are making significant inroads in the market, finding popularity with builders and consumers alike due to their obvious benefits. For example, in the Midwest a primed and painted finger-joint pine trim might make it to 15 years. Cellular PVC trim, however, would easily last twice as long.
Cellular PVC is more energy-efficient than vinyl windows, can be painted, and won't be affected by termites. It looks like wood, acts like wood, but won't weather like wood. The paint won't blister and peel. Wood, on the other hand, requires maintenance. It must be treated regularly.
In 10 years, wood will usually start to show signs of rotting and cracking. If those trouble spots aren't repainted, the sun, rain, and snow will exacerbate the process and introduce mold and moisture into the picture, and possibly into the home. Soon replacement, rather than repair, becomes the only real option.
The benefits of energy efficiency - Whether it's your home siding, your roof, or your windows, choosing higher-quality materials almost always means better-performing materials when it comes to energy conservation.
If you plan on living in your home for some time after making the improvement, you will also reap the benefits that way as well, enjoying your new deck, bigger kitchen, or lower utility bills. Often it's best to keep the big picture in mind, and consider the long-term benefits rather than just the short-term savings.
Wear and tear - Newer, man-made materials such as no-rot composites and cellular PVC are making significant inroads in the market, finding popularity with builders and consumers alike due to their obvious benefits. For example, in the Midwest a primed and painted finger-joint pine trim might make it to 15 years. Cellular PVC trim, however, would easily last twice as long.
Cellular PVC is more energy-efficient than vinyl windows, can be painted, and won't be affected by termites. It looks like wood, acts like wood, but won't weather like wood. The paint won't blister and peel. Wood, on the other hand, requires maintenance. It must be treated regularly.
In 10 years, wood will usually start to show signs of rotting and cracking. If those trouble spots aren't repainted, the sun, rain, and snow will exacerbate the process and introduce mold and moisture into the picture, and possibly into the home. Soon replacement, rather than repair, becomes the only real option.
The benefits of energy efficiency - Whether it's your home siding, your roof, or your windows, choosing higher-quality materials almost always means better-performing materials when it comes to energy conservation.
Cellular PVC Windows
Cellular PVC is a material that is used for replacement windows - it is an economic choice for budget-minded homeowners. Regular PVC is a thermoplastic polymer, and has become a popular building material because it is durable, inexpensive, and easy to fabricate. Cellular PVC, while still relatively new, is rapidly becoming even more popular because it is half the density of regular PVC, weighs about the same as softwood, and has a tensile strength of up to 5,000 PSI.
What is cellular PVC? - Cellular PVC is a solid, foam-extruded material that expands as it cools and hardens. The foam extrusion process creates air bubbles that help to make cellular PVC lighter and stronger than most other materials. For instance, it is 140% stronger than vinyl, which makes it more stable. That stability means it can compete with cellular pvc frames for large windows. It's also a 214% better insulator than vinyl.
Similar to wood - Cellular PVC has wood-like characteristics that also make it a popular choice. It can be milled, and since it has the appearance of real wood, it is used to produce trim, paneling, windows, doors, blinds, and even furniture. It is a 60% better insulator than wood, and it won't succumb to the weathering or insect-related issues of wood.
Other benefits - Cellular PVC can withstand heat to 150F, won't absorb paint, and doesn't expand or contract in response to the weather. In fact, cellular PVC is guaranteed not to swell, rot, warp, bend, crack, splinter, or stick. It can bend to accommodate curved forms such as arches. It is a durable, cost-efficient, low-to-no-maintenance option that is an excellent alternative to traditional wood, and an improvement over vinyl. Not just in strength – cellular PVC is also a 214% better insulator than vinyl.
Availability - Cellular PVC typically comes in white, and while it doesn't have to be painted, it can be. As it resists paint absorption, unlike wood, it requires less paint and thus less effort and cost. If using darker colors (an L value of 56 to 0), choosing a heat reflective paint is recommended.
Cellular PVC windows are available in all-cellular form, or as a cellular PVC-clad wood window. The clad version offers a wood interior frame in a variety of wood types and finishes, which allows homeowners to match their interior trim to their décor and to stain or paint the trim easily.
What is cellular PVC? - Cellular PVC is a solid, foam-extruded material that expands as it cools and hardens. The foam extrusion process creates air bubbles that help to make cellular PVC lighter and stronger than most other materials. For instance, it is 140% stronger than vinyl, which makes it more stable. That stability means it can compete with cellular pvc frames for large windows. It's also a 214% better insulator than vinyl.
Similar to wood - Cellular PVC has wood-like characteristics that also make it a popular choice. It can be milled, and since it has the appearance of real wood, it is used to produce trim, paneling, windows, doors, blinds, and even furniture. It is a 60% better insulator than wood, and it won't succumb to the weathering or insect-related issues of wood.
Other benefits - Cellular PVC can withstand heat to 150F, won't absorb paint, and doesn't expand or contract in response to the weather. In fact, cellular PVC is guaranteed not to swell, rot, warp, bend, crack, splinter, or stick. It can bend to accommodate curved forms such as arches. It is a durable, cost-efficient, low-to-no-maintenance option that is an excellent alternative to traditional wood, and an improvement over vinyl. Not just in strength – cellular PVC is also a 214% better insulator than vinyl.
Availability - Cellular PVC typically comes in white, and while it doesn't have to be painted, it can be. As it resists paint absorption, unlike wood, it requires less paint and thus less effort and cost. If using darker colors (an L value of 56 to 0), choosing a heat reflective paint is recommended.
Cellular PVC windows are available in all-cellular form, or as a cellular PVC-clad wood window. The clad version offers a wood interior frame in a variety of wood types and finishes, which allows homeowners to match their interior trim to their décor and to stain or paint the trim easily.
A Primer on Replacement Windows
Replacement Windows Basics, What You Need To Know
The addition of a storm window to a single-pane window can often outperform some replacement units. The majority of newer replacement windows carry the "Energy Star" rating for home efficiency, and may be custom ordered to meet the customers preferences, both functionally, and aesthetically. While most replacement windows are used in residential applications, there are numerous commercial applications as well, such as storefronts, offices, and workshops.
Replacement vs. New-Construction Windows
Replacement windows should be distinguished from new-construction windows. New-construction windows have a "fin" along the outer frame. This fin provides a surface so that the window can be nailed in from the outside of the home before the application of siding. Unfortunately, new-construction windows may be of inferior quality as builders continually try to keep costs low. Replacement windows have no such "fin". This allows them to be installed with minimal disruption to the existing trim/siding. They are set into place in the existing window frame and nails or screws are driven into the window from the inside of the window jamb.
Installation may be done from the inside by the removal of the inside trim, or from the outside by the removal of the outside "stops". Outside installation requires either replacing old stops with new ones, or a custom metal wrap, but can be useful if the inside trim is too precious to be disturbed. All windows should be sealed inside and out with a high quality silicone caulk. While replacing your home windows can be a do it yourself project, it is most often best accomplished by a window replacement contractor.
Replacement Window Materials
Replacement windows are available in several materials including wood, fiberglass, aluminum-clad wood, vinyl-clad wood, vinyl, or recently, a composite of wood and plastic. Vinyl replacement windows are a very popular choice as they are the least expensive and now comes in many pre-molded colors. This also appeals to those seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle, such as condominium owners, senior citizens and lower- or fixed income families.
Most installations are completed with a custom metal "wrap", which acts as an added barrier against the elements. PVC-coated aluminum comes in a myriad of colors and requires no painting. Solid vinyl exterior trim is also an option.
Replacement window screens can be full-sized, half-sized or retractable. A variety of materials, from aluminum to durable vinyl/fiberglass "pet-screens", are available.
The addition of a storm window to a single-pane window can often outperform some replacement units. The majority of newer replacement windows carry the "Energy Star" rating for home efficiency, and may be custom ordered to meet the customers preferences, both functionally, and aesthetically. While most replacement windows are used in residential applications, there are numerous commercial applications as well, such as storefronts, offices, and workshops.
Replacement vs. New-Construction Windows
Replacement windows should be distinguished from new-construction windows. New-construction windows have a "fin" along the outer frame. This fin provides a surface so that the window can be nailed in from the outside of the home before the application of siding. Unfortunately, new-construction windows may be of inferior quality as builders continually try to keep costs low. Replacement windows have no such "fin". This allows them to be installed with minimal disruption to the existing trim/siding. They are set into place in the existing window frame and nails or screws are driven into the window from the inside of the window jamb.
Installation may be done from the inside by the removal of the inside trim, or from the outside by the removal of the outside "stops". Outside installation requires either replacing old stops with new ones, or a custom metal wrap, but can be useful if the inside trim is too precious to be disturbed. All windows should be sealed inside and out with a high quality silicone caulk. While replacing your home windows can be a do it yourself project, it is most often best accomplished by a window replacement contractor.
Replacement Window Materials
Replacement windows are available in several materials including wood, fiberglass, aluminum-clad wood, vinyl-clad wood, vinyl, or recently, a composite of wood and plastic. Vinyl replacement windows are a very popular choice as they are the least expensive and now comes in many pre-molded colors. This also appeals to those seeking a low-maintenance lifestyle, such as condominium owners, senior citizens and lower- or fixed income families.
Most installations are completed with a custom metal "wrap", which acts as an added barrier against the elements. PVC-coated aluminum comes in a myriad of colors and requires no painting. Solid vinyl exterior trim is also an option.
Replacement window screens can be full-sized, half-sized or retractable. A variety of materials, from aluminum to durable vinyl/fiberglass "pet-screens", are available.
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