Windows play a very important role in buildings. They help in air circulation and regulation of warmth in the room as well as add an aesthetic value to the whole building. After houses have stayed for a while, there is a need to make some changes. Wooden windows may require repairs or replacements depending on the degree of damage. At times, home owners are faced with the task of choosing between the wooden and the vinyl windows.
One of the most important considerations in making the choice is, of course, the cost involved. Generally, wooden designs are more expensive than those made from vinyl. There is also a variation in price depending on the type of wood used. For instance, a 36 inch by 54 inch double hung made from pine and has insulated glass goes for about USD 270. If the frame is made of mahogany, the cost shoots to about USD 2, 100.
Other than the cost, there are other factors that may make one choose wood over vinyl. Wood is a better insulator than vinyl. This is an important factor especially in areas that experience adverse weather conditions. In such areas, it is necessary to prevent loss of heat during cold winters and to prevent excessively high temperatures in summer. Most designs come with weather stripping which makes them suitable for this function.
Another important consideration is the theme of the house. A house that is made predominantly of wood would appear better with a wooden window whereas that which has vinyl components (the floor for example) may look better with a vinyl window. Wood can be painted to match the colour of the rest of the house something that is not possible with vinyl. Vinyl is designed in three main colours that include bronze, white and tan.
Other than the high cost, there are a few other disadvantages that may discourage buyers. One of these disadvantages is the fact that these windows are a bit difficult to clean. They need to be handled carefully during repairs and cleaning using cotton gloves. This helps avoid grease, oil and dirt that may spoil the window. Unlike vinyl, wood needs regular cleaning to prolong its life.
There are other treatments that need to be done to maintain wood quality. A poorly maintained window is susceptible to weathering and rotting. Another problem that should be anticipated is the swelling of the window following imbibing of moisture. This is a common problem in high humidity areas. It hinders the opening and closing of a window if excessive.
Vinyl windows have continued to be preferred for replacements due to a number of reasons. One of these reasons is of course the fact that they are cheaper. They are easy to fix such that one does not need to invest in an expert. Some people choose to combine wood and vinyl components. Such windows will have the elegance of wood and the functionality of vinyl which makes them a great choice.
It is a good idea to seek professional advice when making changes involving wooden windows particularly if these changes include replacements. Sometimes there is no need to replace and just a few repairs are adequate. This is especially common in case of old houses where the great look of the house may be lost by making changes. In addition, new wood may not last as long as the original one that was used.
One of the most important considerations in making the choice is, of course, the cost involved. Generally, wooden designs are more expensive than those made from vinyl. There is also a variation in price depending on the type of wood used. For instance, a 36 inch by 54 inch double hung made from pine and has insulated glass goes for about USD 270. If the frame is made of mahogany, the cost shoots to about USD 2, 100.
Other than the cost, there are other factors that may make one choose wood over vinyl. Wood is a better insulator than vinyl. This is an important factor especially in areas that experience adverse weather conditions. In such areas, it is necessary to prevent loss of heat during cold winters and to prevent excessively high temperatures in summer. Most designs come with weather stripping which makes them suitable for this function.
Another important consideration is the theme of the house. A house that is made predominantly of wood would appear better with a wooden window whereas that which has vinyl components (the floor for example) may look better with a vinyl window. Wood can be painted to match the colour of the rest of the house something that is not possible with vinyl. Vinyl is designed in three main colours that include bronze, white and tan.
Other than the high cost, there are a few other disadvantages that may discourage buyers. One of these disadvantages is the fact that these windows are a bit difficult to clean. They need to be handled carefully during repairs and cleaning using cotton gloves. This helps avoid grease, oil and dirt that may spoil the window. Unlike vinyl, wood needs regular cleaning to prolong its life.
There are other treatments that need to be done to maintain wood quality. A poorly maintained window is susceptible to weathering and rotting. Another problem that should be anticipated is the swelling of the window following imbibing of moisture. This is a common problem in high humidity areas. It hinders the opening and closing of a window if excessive.
Vinyl windows have continued to be preferred for replacements due to a number of reasons. One of these reasons is of course the fact that they are cheaper. They are easy to fix such that one does not need to invest in an expert. Some people choose to combine wood and vinyl components. Such windows will have the elegance of wood and the functionality of vinyl which makes them a great choice.
It is a good idea to seek professional advice when making changes involving wooden windows particularly if these changes include replacements. Sometimes there is no need to replace and just a few repairs are adequate. This is especially common in case of old houses where the great look of the house may be lost by making changes. In addition, new wood may not last as long as the original one that was used.
About the Author:
If there is a need for replacement wooden windows, check out the wooden replacement windows London homeowners can choose. The website for sash window draught proofing service in London can be seen at http://www.sashwindowrepairs-london.co.uk/wooden-windows.html right now.
No comments:
Post a Comment