Wood is one of the most beautiful and aesthetic surfaces for windows. That is why these windows are so popular. However, when left to the elements, wood will degrade and begin to rot. Quality wood replacement windows can also be expensive, especially with the required upkeep.
Wood is a good insulator. These frames expand and contract less than most other materials but require more maintenance and are susceptible to moisture damage. Wood components treated with a preservative or clad with metal or vinyl offer benefits of being low maintenance but have high insulating value.
Wood window frames are the choice of most homeowners and most major window manufacturers. They are easy to paint which allows the homeowner to change the color of the window. Wooden window frames, however, require considerable maintenance, including periodic painting. If they are not protected from moisture, they can stick, crack and warp. As the cost of wood increases, manufacturers have begun using veneers over lower-grade wood cores. Since these aren’t solid wood, the wood fiber determines the performance of the frames.
Vinyl-clad and aluminum-clad wood frames are wood frames covered on the exterior with either vinyl or aluminum. This allows the homeowner to have the traditional look of the wood frame indoors, while avoiding periodic painting outdoors. These window frames, however, may rot if the cladding leaks and moisture reaches the wooden frame.
To view some of our completed installs, please click the following link: Energy Swing Windows Gallery