Windows play an essential role in the energy efficiency and aesthetics of your home. A professional window replacement company can help you choose the right material and style to suit your budget. It can also provide installation and maintenance services.
The classic choice is wood, which offers a timeless look and excellent strength. Vinyl is another affordable option that reduces energy bills. Clad windows are a growing trend, as they combine the beauty of one material with the durability of another.
Wood
A timeless classic, wood windows add a touch of elegance to any home. They also offer exceptional energy efficiency, helping homeowners save money on their utility bills. Wood windows are durable and can last for 60 to 100 years if properly maintained. However, they require regular maintenance to keep them looking pristine.
JELD-WEN manufactures a wide variety of high-quality, well-engineered products for window replacement and other remodeling projects. Their energy-efficient windows are designed to reduce your energy costs, protect your home from the elements and improve its value.
Steel windows have become increasingly popular in recent years due to their sleek appearance and unmatched strength. They are often found in modern homes and can complement the traditional style of older buildings. These windows are a good choice for those who want the beauty of wood but need a more durable material. They are available in full-frame and frame-and-sash insert styles. The latter offers a more affordable option that allows you to keep your existing trim and siding.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass windows are extremely strong, and they are a great choice for harsh weather conditions. They also offer superior insulation, which can help you cut energy costs and keep your home comfortable all year round.
They are made from a blend of ingredients that include limestone, silica sand, soda ash, borax, magnesite, nepheline syenite, feldspar, and kaolin clay. These ingredients are heated together in a melting furnace, which creates a material called molten glass.
The mixture is then formed into long filaments that are woven together to form sheets or insulation. The strands can also be chopped up to create a puffy texture that is often used for soundproofing.
Exposure to fiberglass can be harmful if it comes into contact with the skin or eyes, so it is important to wear protective equipment when working with it. If you do experience any exposure, wash the affected area immediately with water and soap. Also, it is best to open the windows and doors whenever possible to increase ventilation and reduce the amount of dust and fibers that enter the air.
Vinyl
Vinyl windows are a popular choice among Rayne LA homeowners because they offer an attractive blend of aesthetics and energy efficiency. Made from PVC, a robust plastic known for its resilience and resistance to moisture, they can be tailored to match a variety of architectural styles.
Their superior insulation means they won’t allow heat to seep into your home during smoldering summer months, helping you save on your power bills. In addition, they’re available in fade-resistant colors that won’t smear or peel.
Unlike wood, they’re resistant to humidity and pests like termites. Plus, they have a low carbon footprint because half of their makeup is derived from chlorine, which is derived from salt and water instead of petroleum. This makes it less sensitive to fluctuations in the oil market. In addition, a multi-chambered frame design and panes filled with inert gases like argon improve thermal performance and reduce your energy costs.
Clad
A relatively new option, clad windows combine the beauty of wood on the interior with the durability of another material on the exterior. This prevents rotting and insect infestation while also improving energy efficiency.
They are an excellent choice for those living in climates with extreme weather conditions, as the aluminum cladding protects the wood frame from moisture damage. This eliminates the need for regular repainting and helps prolong the life of your new windows.
Pella’s EnduraClad aluminum cladding is treated with an innovative formula and a water barrier before being applied to the wood components, offering advanced protection from moisture, mildew and termite damage. The combination of wood and aluminum provides a strong, energy efficient window that increases your home’s value while providing lasting beauty and functionality. The aluminum cladding also limits expansion and contraction with temperature changes, enhancing the structural integrity of the window. This allows the wood to insulate your home from heat and cold while boosting its curb appeal.