Window Comparisons
Wood Windows: Wood windows have a natural look and the interior can be stained or painted to the homeowner’s particular taste. Wood windows are becoming less popular today because builders are attracted to the lower cost of vinyl. If you prefer that natural wood look, wood windows make a great choice. We have some customers who insist on wood. Like any window some wood window manufacturers build junk and some build quality. We have screened out all the lower quality windows from our product offering. We have included a few of the major name brand products that we like and feel confident with. Pro's/Con's of Wood Windows
Vinyl Windows: By far the most popular type of window today. Vinyl windows currently account for 65% of all the windows sold in the United States. There is a vast range of options creating either a short term value priced window or a state of the art window for optimum energy efficiency and longevity. Prices will have the greatest range with vinyl. Hollow frames with inexpensive glass sold at the home centers are extremely affordable.
Frames reinforced with aluminum, steel or fiberglass, make more durable long term units. Pro's/Con's of Vinyl Windows
Fiberglass Windows: If you want the latest technology and can afford a higher price, fiberglass windows may be for you. They came about in the mid 1990's with the development of pultrusion technology. Fiberglass fibers are gathered from 30 or 40 spools of fiberglass thread and dipped in a resin bath, they are then pulled through a die to create a form. The extruded form can then be fabricated to make windows. The process is slow but creates an extremely durable window unit. Pro's/Con's of Fiberglass Windows
Composite Windows:A fusion of the positives between fiberglass and vinyl. If you are looking for a maintenance free window with exceptional strength and longevity consider composite windows. These windows are also referred to as Hybrid windows. Pro's/Con's of Composite Windows
New Construction vs Replacement Windows:
New construction windows come in standard sizes. Replacement windows come in custom sizes.
Standard size windows are typically the least expensive initially. However, if you are using them in a replacement window application you may end up paying a lot more in the end. Standard size windows require that you modify the house to fit the window, this can get very expensive. You will be left with new trim on the inside that must be painted or stained. You may have some drywall sanding, wall painting or wallpaper to change. These windows are readily available and can often be found on the shelf of building supply centers. If you must order your sizes they will usually arrive within 10 days.
Custom made windows are more expensive initially but far less invasive and usually less expensive in the end. They must be custom ordered and it usually takes 2 to 4 weeks for delivery. Custom replacement windows usually use the existing trim so you avoid the expense and mess associated with that part of the job. The drawback to replacement windows is that you lose some glass, how much glass depends on the brand of window you install. Some windows are very bulky while others have thin frames and sashes. Most people do not object to the loss in glass unless they have small windows where it becomes very noticeable.
Bottom line; don’t use a standard size window in a replacement application and don’t use a replacement window in a new construction application.
All replacement windows are available in the following styles:
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Double Hungs & Single Hungs |
Sliders, Tilt-In Sliders, Single Sliders, & 3-Section Sliders |
Casements & Awning Windows |
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Bay Windows |
Bow Windows |
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Picture Windows |
Garden Windows |
Specialty Shapes |
Basement Hoppers |
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