You Can’t Beat The Look of Wood Windows, Right?
Most homeowners would agree that real wood windows are the best looking windows for their home. However, wood windows come with a couple of potential downfalls. Not all wood windows are alike though. Here are some of the pitfalls associated with lower quality wood windows:
Wood-framed windows offer a classic look and excellent natural insulation, but they do come with several disadvantages that homeowners should consider:
High Maintenance Requirements
- Regular Sealing and Painting: Wood needs regular maintenance, such as repainting or resealing every few years, to protect it from moisture and UV damage. Failure to do so can dramatically shorten the windows’ lifespan.
- More Work than Alternatives: Compared to materials like vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass, wood requires significantly more time and effort for upkeep.
Susceptibility to Environmental Damage
- Rot and Decay: Wood is vulnerable to rot and mold, which is caused by fungi growth due to continuous moisture exposure. This is a primary concern, especially in humid or rainy climates.
- Warping and Cracking: Wood is a natural material that absorbs moisture and changes volume with temperature and humidity fluctuations. This expansion and contraction can lead to:
- Warping or twisting of the frame.
- Cracks in the wood and surrounding caulk.
- Difficult Operation: Windows can become sticky, swell, or shrink, making them hard to open or close smoothly.
- Pest Infestation: Wood is an attractive target for insects like termites, carpenter ants, and other wood-boring pests, which can cause significant structural damage.
Higher Cost
- Initial Cost: Wood windows generally have a higher upfront cost than those made from materials like vinyl or aluminum.
- Long-Term Cost: The cost of regular maintenance, including paint, sealants, and repairs for issues like rot, can lead to a higher long-term cost of ownership.
Potential Energy Efficiency Issues
- While wood itself is a good insulator, environmental damage can compromise its effectiveness. Cracks, gaps, and seal failure caused by warping or neglect can lead to air leaks (drafts) and a loss of energy efficiency, potentially increasing heating and cooling costs.
Wood Look Vinyl Windows!
How can you get the look of wood windows with the durability and longevity of Vinyl Windows? The standout features of wood windows are the ability to have a different finish inside and outside. Painted exterior to complement your home. Stained or painted interior to match your interior decor. Another typical feature of wood windows are the surface divided lights/grids.
The Sierra Pacific 8500 is a premium Vinyl Window with the best features of wood. With 14 decorator colors to choose from and the ability to custom match any color, Sierra Pacific’s 6 step Ultrabond paint process is so durable, they offer a 10 year guarantee.
Sierra Pacific also offers stylish grids in several profiles as simulated divided lights. Your grids won’t consist of individual panes of glass like the old days. The simulated divided lights are on the exterior surface of glass and received the same durable paint process as the frames.
Not Your Average Vinyl Windows!
Sierra Pacific vinyl windows are going to cost a bit more than other vinyl windows. Quality of construction and attention to detail are the most obvious visual differences. Smooth, quality corner welds, high performance balancers and other hardware. Premium energy efficiency ratings. We invite you to learn more about these windows by visiting our Houston Showroom. These are our best wood look vinyl windows!
Are These Windows Ready For DIY or Handyman Installation?
As you’ve no doubt heard Jeff say in his videos: “A great window installed poorly is a bad window”! That’s why we tout our Lifetime Leak-Free Guarantee! We have the Best People following the Best Processes all while carrying the Best Products in the industry! We believe Great Windows should be installed by Experts!
Learn more about Houston Window Experts on our YouTube channel! Give us a call and schedule your visit to our showroom or schedule your in-home consultation.
