Making the most of replacement windows means choosing the best option. And to ensure you make the right choice, it’s crucial that you pay attention to the major components of a window, starting with the frame.
The Importance of Choosing the Right Window Frame
Thanks to technological advancements, a number of window frame options is available to you today. However, keep in mind that not all window frames are created equal. All options have something to offer but some fare better than others in effectively addressing your needs. So what window frame should you choose?
Remember that the right window frame is one that can effectively seal out moisture and drafts, preventing moisture-related issues and helping maintain a stable indoor temperature in the home. It also has to be durable enough to not only withstand outdoor threats but to maintain as well the window’s form, ensuring it stays functional throughout its lifespan. Additionally, the right frame is beautiful, making a window more appealing so it can better complement your home.
What Makes a Good Window Frame?
For the qualities mentioned above to be achieved, the window frame should meet certain standards:
- Strength and durability. The window frame is designed to support the window and keep it in position. If it is not durable and strong enough, it won’t be able to perform its job.
- Resistance to weather and temperature changes. In relation to strength and durability, the window frame should be able to withstand wear and tear and weather-related damage factors such as extreme heat, cold, and moisture. This way, the window frame will be able to serve its purpose for as long as possible.
- Outstanding insulation. Insulation is a material’s ability to prevent heat transfer and absorption. If a window has good insulative capabilities, it can help in keeping indoor heat in and outdoor heat out, enhancing a window’s energy efficiency, and ultimately your home’s.
- Maintenance ease. Let’s face it–cleaning and maintaining windows are no fun. If your window frame offers ease of maintenance, you won’t have to worry too much about its upkeep, freeing up your time to do other tasks in the home.
- Aesthetic appeal. Essentially, you’d want a window that can enhance your home’s appearance, both on the inside and out. A carefully selected window frame will do easy work of achieving this.
Today’s Most Popular Framing Options: A Comparison
Among the most popular window frame options, today are wood, vinyl, and composite, all of which offer unique sets of advantages that make them attractive to homeowners. Let’s take a look at what how these window frame options stack up against each other.
- Wood – Wood windows have been around for centuries. As wood was easily accessible in the past, it was the practical choice for home builders. Today, even with other options available, wood windows still exist because they are highly prized for their beauty, durability, and insulative ability. Unfortunately, these advantages come at a price: extensive maintenance.
- Vinyl – Vinyl windows have been the go-to option for those looking for affordable options and ease of maintenance. However, their lower price does mean some compromises have to be made, resulting in poor insulation and frames that warp under extreme temperature conditions. They also fall behind when it comes to aesthetic appeal.
- Composite – A relatively new material, composite frames feature the combination of reclaimed wood fibers and PVC polymer. Known to be twice stronger than vinyl, they perform better when exposed to extreme temperatures. Composite window frames are typically pre-finished during production so they won’t fade and flake, letting you do away with repainting or refinishing. An example of a composite window frame is Renewal by Andersen’s Fibrex, which combines the beauty and durability of wood with the maintenance ease of vinyl. This results in window frames that are as charming and insulative as wood but not susceptible to moisture damage and pest infestation and highly convenient to care for like vinyl.
Fibrex: The Clear Choice
Considering the comparison above, the clear best choice would be composite frames such as Fibrex. Further benefits of Fibrex include:
- 700x more insulating than aluminum
- Retains form and stability in all climates
- Won’t bow, crack, expand, or contract
- Resists rot, decay, and rust
- Long lifespan cuts need for replacement, aiding in reducing landfill waste
- Stable structure allows for narrower frames, making way for bigger glass areas for bigger views
- Comes in a range of color options
From durability and insulation to aesthetics, Fibrex has a host of benefits that is difficult to ignore, making it an ideal choice as a window frame. Window replacement can be a significant investment so make sure you make the most of it by taking into consideration what Fibrex can do for you. To learn more about the framing material, don’t hesitate to get in touch with a certified Renewal by Andersen window expert today.
Author Bio:
With more than 20 years of experience in the home improvement industry, Dan Hedman has been working with some of the most reputable names in the business. In those years, he has received numerous awards for successfully manage a sales team and his unwavering commitment to providing top-notch customer service. Check out the company blog for updates from Dan!
Sources:
http://www.diynetwork.com/how-to/rooms-and-spaces/doors-and-windows/what-is-a-window-frame
https://www.thisoldhouse.com/ideas/frames-are-almost-important-window-glazing
https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/why-choose-us/superior-performance.aspx
https://www.renewalbyandersen.com/why-choose-us/fibrex.aspx
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