ENERGY EFFICIENCY
The Learning Center
Window frames are available in a variety of materials including aluminum, wood, vinyl, and fiberglass. Frames may be primarily composed
of one material, or they may be a combination of different materials, such as wood clad with vinyl or aluminum, or vinyl with aluminum
reinforcement. Each framing material has its advantages and disadvantages.
Aluminum frames - Conduct heat and, therefore, lose heat faster and are prone to condensation. Through anodizing or coating, the
corrosion and electro-galvanic deterioration of aluminum frames can be avoided. Additionally, the thermal resistance of aluminum frames
can be significantly improved by placing continuous insulating plastic strips between the interior and exterior of the frame.
Wood frames - Wood is a good insulator which reduces energy flow. However, if not properly protected, wood frames can swell, which
leads to rotting, warping, and sticking. As a consequence, wood frames require maintenance in the form of periodic painting or staining.
Vinyl window frames - Vinyl offers many advantages. It is a good insulator, will not absorb moisture, and is able to withstand a variety of
weather conditions. Since vinyl is easily customized, it is available in a wide range of styles and shapes. Vinyl also requires very little
maintenance. While vinyl frames do not possess the inherent strength of metal or wood, many better quality vinyl windows are
strengthened with aluminum, steel, or fiberglass reinforcing bars.
Fiberglass frames - Fiberglass window frames are relatively new. They have good insulating capabilities and will not warp, shrink, swell,
rot, or corrode. However, unprotected fiberglass does not hold up to the weather and, therefore, is always painted. Consequently, it is
important to verify the warranty and maintenance requirements. Some fiberglass frames are hollow, while others are insulated.
8. What are the differences between window framing materials?
< back to list of questions about energy efficiency
3245 Miracle Drive
Murrysville, PA 15668
724-387-2991
PA Contractor ID
PA001856
The Learning Center
Window frames are available in a variety of materials including aluminum, wood, vinyl, and fiberglass. Frames may be primarily composed
of one material, or they may be a combination of different materials, such as wood clad with vinyl or aluminum, or vinyl with aluminum
reinforcement. Each framing material has its advantages and disadvantages.
Aluminum frames - Conduct heat and, therefore, lose heat faster and are prone to condensation. Through anodizing or coating, the
corrosion and electro-galvanic deterioration of aluminum frames can be avoided. Additionally, the thermal resistance of aluminum frames
can be significantly improved by placing continuous insulating plastic strips between the interior and exterior of the frame.
Wood frames - Wood is a good insulator which reduces energy flow. However, if not properly protected, wood frames can swell, which
leads to rotting, warping, and sticking. As a consequence, wood frames require maintenance in the form of periodic painting or staining.
Vinyl window frames - Vinyl offers many advantages. It is a good insulator, will not absorb moisture, and is able to withstand a variety of
weather conditions. Since vinyl is easily customized, it is available in a wide range of styles and shapes. Vinyl also requires very little
maintenance. While vinyl frames do not possess the inherent strength of metal or wood, many better quality vinyl windows are
strengthened with aluminum, steel, or fiberglass reinforcing bars.
Fiberglass frames - Fiberglass window frames are relatively new. They have good insulating capabilities and will not warp, shrink, swell,
rot, or corrode. However, unprotected fiberglass does not hold up to the weather and, therefore, is always painted. Consequently, it is
important to verify the warranty and maintenance requirements. Some fiberglass frames are hollow, while others are insulated.
8. What are the differences between window framing materials?
< back to list of questions about energy efficiency
3245 Miracle Drive
Murrysville, PA 15668
724-387-2991
PA Contractor ID
PA001856
