Best Windows for Your Chicago Home: Wood, Vinyl or Aluminum

There are three different types of window materials available – vinyl, wood, and aluminum. When you are ready to replace your old, drafty, inefficient windows, you may need to choose one of these options. Keep reading and discover the pros and cons of each material.
 

Benefits of Vinyl Windows
 

There are many reasons why vinyl is the most preferred replacement window option. Vinyl replacement windows are durable, aesthetically appealing, affordable and almost maintenance free. Vinyl is also known for its amazing insulating properties because it is a poor conductor of heat. For this reason, it stops heat from coming inside the house during the summer months. In the same way, it prevents cold air from coming inside during the winter months. However, not all vinyl windows are the same. You get what you pay for, goes the old saying.
 

People started using vinyl in the early 1970s, and became widespread not only because they are less expensive but also because they require very little or no maintenance. Moreover, the material is durable and can last for many years.
 

Vinyl Disadvantages
 

As with any manufactured product, vinyl has its own downsides. The material cannot be painted, making it less appealingly to the eye. This means you aren't able to paint them a special color to match with your window shutters, gutters, etc.
 

Aluminum Advantages
 

Aluminum windows are extremely light, yet very strong and durable. They are long lasting and require little maintenance, especially with anodized or factory-baked finishes. If you wish to install windows with unique shapes, you might want to consider aluminum since the metal can easily be manipulated into virtually any shape.
 

Aluminum windows are great for normal climates. In other words, they can be a perfect option in areas where heat or cold is not a major issue. Aluminum windows is mostly used in large commercial buildings as they are less expensive than wood and vinyl.
 

Disadvantages of Aluminum
 

The major problem with aluminum is the fact that it is a good conductor of heat. Therefore, aluminum replacement windows may not be a good option in extremely hot climates. Additionally, aluminum may eventually allow condensation to form between the panes.
 

Advantages of Wood Windows
 

Many homes, especially traditional older homes, are set up with wood windows. True wood has a feel and look that cannot compare to either aluminum and vinyl. Wood is aesthetically pleasing, wood is tough; wood is well insulated. In fact, some vinyl and aluminum window frames try to mimic wood's appearance. Wood windows are environmentally-friendly and can be painted with virtually any color.
 

Disadvantages of Wood Windows
 

One of the major reasons why most homeowners settle for vinyl and aluminum options is the cost. Wood windows are quite expensive. The need for regular maintenance is another good reason most people don’t consider wood. Wood – if left unmaintained – can warp, rot, and start to look ugly. Also, wood is attractive to termites.

Need Replacement Windows in Chicago? Think About Getting Energy Efficient Ones

There are many reasons to invest in new replacement windows for your home or commercial property. Perhaps you have been dealing with drafts or leaks that make your house an uncomfortable place to stay. Sometimes the fading of your furniture or carpet and high energy bills are caused by inefficient windows. If you are experiencing any of these problems, it’s the right time to look for energy efficient replacement windows—your best bet for affordable, safe, strong, and energy conscious windows.
 

According to experts, windows contribute about 10% to 25% to your monthly utility bill. If your home has old single-pane windows, it’s time to have them replaced with double or triple-pane windows that will add a new look and feel to your home and reduce your utility bills. Moreover, new windows can add to the safety of your property as older types can easily be broken into by robbers and burglars. With too many replacement windows available on the market, it’s vitally important to learn a few tips on choosing the best windows for your house. Here are some of them:
 

Material: Vinyl, wood, and aluminum are the most popular choices of materials. Vinyl is inexpensive, looks superb for a long period of time, can adapt to temperature and humidity changes, has great insulating properties and is virtually maintenance-free. Wood is quite poor when it comes to extreme climates and is relatively expensive. Despite that, many people still prefer the stunning appearance of wood windows over vinyl ones. Aluminum is incredibly durable and strong.
 

Design: The design of the replacement window you think of purchasing have to match up with the design of your house. There are plenty of colors available, but selecting the color that matches with the décor of your house is paramount.
 

Energy Star rating: This label is meant to tell you that the product has been tested and is energy efficient. Hence, before buying any window claiming to be energy efficient, make sure it is rated by Energy Star. This way you will save money on heating and cooling costs. Although new replacement windows are quite expensive, their long term benefits will, at the end of the day, offset your purchase.
 

National Fenestration Ratings Council (NFRC): Ensure that you understand what this means. In addition to Energy Star rating, NFRC is another label issued by an independent agency mandated with the task of comparing the energy performance of windows, skylights, and so forth. U-Factor is one of the essential ratings that measures the amount of heat gain and heat loss of a window.
 

Pricing: Wood is more expensive than vinyl. And it’s worth bearing in mind that once you’ve installed wood replacement windows, you will still need to spend extra money on maintenance. They often need to be painted and stained.
 

There are many factors to be considered when purchasing a replacement window. Replacing your older, inefficient windows with new ones makes lots of sense. You get a comfortable, secure, and beautiful home.