A well-chosen replacement window can make a dramatic difference to your home’s energy efficiency, comfort and value. Look for a company with excellent warranty coverage and flexible financing options.
Fiberglass windows are known for their durability and longevity, while wood windows provide unparalleled beauty. Clad windows combine the aesthetics of wood with the strength of vinyl, offering a wide range of design choices.
Vinyl
Vinyl windows are a popular choice because of their affordability, energy efficiency and low maintenance. They are available in a variety of styles and can add resale value to your home.
Standard vinyl windows are made from extruded polyvinyl chloride (PVC), the same durable plastic that is used for pipes and exterior house trim. They can withstand harsh weather conditions and won’t warp or rot.
Energy-efficient vinyl windows are available with double or triple panes of glass. A double-pane window includes an extra pane with argon gas in between, which can help reduce energy costs by reducing heat transfer from inside to outside.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass windows provide a balance of strength, durability and energy efficiency. Their upfront cost is slightly higher than vinyl, but they offer a greater range of design options to meet your style preferences.
Their thick acrylic cap also protects them from harmful UV rays, which can break down other materials over time and cause fading or discoloration. They’re also highly stable during temperature fluctuations and are less susceptible to damage from moisture.
Available with innovative hardware, fiberglass casement and awning windows feature sleek frames with narrow sightlines to let more natural light into your home. They close and open horizontally like single- and double-hung windows.
Wood
The natural beauty and design flexibility of wood windows add real value to your home. Unlike aluminum, wood windows do not attract condensation and resist rot and insect damage.
Milgard’s Essence Series combines wood interiors in pine or optional Douglas fir with durable fiberglass exteriors. They also feature an internal secure connecting system that prevents water from damaging the wood.
The company’s ENERGY STAR label provides information about U-factors and solar heat gain coefficients, which homeowners can compare with similar window models. Positive reviews frequently mention speedy replacements and a good warranty program.
Steel
If other window materials were gym-goers, steel would be the one lifting the heaviest weights. This strong metal gives windows and doors sleek lines that are perfect for homes with a modern design or upscale new builds.
These windows are also energy-efficient and rust-resistant, making them an excellent choice for harsh weather climates. They can be glazed with argon gas to improve insulation and reduce carbon footprints.
They’re easy to clean, requiring minimal maintenance. A mild soap solution and sponge or cloth are enough to remove smudges and dirt buildup. Their slim sight lines offer unobstructed views. This makes them ideal for large living spaces and bedrooms.
Aluminum
The best aluminum windows are strong enough to resist damage from harsh weather and are designed with features that enhance security. They also come in a variety of colors and can be powder-coated to match your home’s style.
Awning windows feature a top-hinged design that opens outward to let in air and light. They can be matched with wood or aluminum frames for a customized look.
Wood frames provide natural insulation and a classic, timeless appearance, while aluminum windows offer solid performance. Both can be enhanced with thermal breaks and Low-E glass to improve energy efficiency. Aluminum clad windows are also more durable than other materials and require less maintenance.
Composite
In cold climates, a home’s windows need to be able to keep heat in and the moisture out. This is why composite windows are so beneficial. They are built to withstand frigid winter temperatures and the shrink-and-swell cycle that can damage traditional wood-frame windows.
Composite clad windows are gaining popularity with homeowners, as they offer the beauty of wood on the inside and durability of another material on the outside. They also have a low thermal expansion rate and are less likely to warp and rot.
They are also available in a variety of colors and can be customized to fit your home’s unique design. This type of fenestration can increase your property’s energy efficiency, lowering your utility bills over time.