Outside Looking In: Wood Windows vs Vinyl Windows

Today's Home Improvement Showdown pits two mortal enemies against one another: wood and vinyl. These two always seem to run into each other, whether they're battling to be the building material for your deck, flooring, siding, or, as in today's blog, windows.

If this were a boxing match, Wood would be Rocky Balboa, the grizzled old veteran representing tradition and class, while Vinyl would be the young upstart ready to take his place. So who really has the edge?

Vinyl Windows

First the, the kid in the blue corner, Vinyl. Though you see vinyl windows more and more these days, most window contractors use vinyl primarily for replacement windows. That's because they're quite affordable, easy to install, and don't require much if any maintenance. Vinyl frames are also very durable, but their insulating qualities might be lacking (vinyl is known to expand and contract during temperature changes). Plus, aesthetically, you can attempt to mimic the look of wood with vinyl windows, but you're not likely to fool anyone.

Wood Windows

Now to the red corner, and that never-say-die trooper, Wood. Just like Rocky himself, wood windows are going to cost you a lot more money to see in action, and they'll need considerably more maintenance to maintain they're luster. However, wood windows earned their value by winning their fair share of prize fights. Exterior cladding materials help protect today's wood windows from weather damage, while an infinite amount of paint and staining options help them perfectly blend with the character of any room.

And the winner is . . .

"Yo Adrian, I did it!" Wood is victorious again! Though installation and upkeep is costlier, wood windows are still the preferred choice of both homeowners and contractors for long term, sophisticated results. There are, of course, numerous variations of designs and wood types, so talk with your window contractor about the best options for your home.