Choosing the right material for replacement windows

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Window frames add style and character to your windows and to your home as a whole. When it comes to replacing your windows, there are a variety of materials to choose from. If you’re looking for replacement windows, you can choose from wood, PVC, fibreglass or aluminium window frames. They all have their advantages, so it is worth taking the time to consider what would be best for you home and your budget. Here’s some information to help you choose your window materials wisely and install the perfect windows suitable for your house. 

1. Wood

Wooden windows are a good option for many houses, for a lot of reasons. They have a strong frame, and can withstand high winds. The main downside is that wooden frames are vulnerable to moisture. If you live in an area where it rains a lot, windows may develop moulds and fungus. Nonetheless, wooden windows have a classic feel to them and are available in every single frame style that you can think of. So, if you feel overwhelmed in choosing one material for your windows, then wooden could be the way to go!

2. Aluminium

Aluminium windows are strong. They are also affordable and low-maintenance, compared to most types of windows. Aluminium frames can resist water, sun and high winds, and require little to no maintenance. Although if you want to, you can get your aluminium frames checked on an annual or bi-annual basis for peace of mind, to make sure that they are in good shape.

Aluminium windows look minimalistic and effortless. They are slim and sleek, not to mention, they are heat-insulating, so these frames won’t get hot.

Aluminium is also very environmentally friendly. Aluminium is one of the few materials which is indefinitely recyclable ie you can use it again and again. When you recycle aluminium, it creates very high quality new aluminium and the process only uses 5% of the energy needed to create the initial metal.

3. PVC

If you can’t afford wooden windows or want windows which are a little more hardwearing than wood, PVC (or vinyl) could be the answer. PVC double glazing is affordable, and window frames have a wood-like texture and look to them. There are endless frame designs to choose from. If you’re looking for something low maintenance, PVC windows are very easy to clean with a damp sponge and a cleaning solution.

Some downsides to PVC windows include that they can deform over time, especially in hot weather and climates. Vinyl windows may also look a little cheap and up close it may be obvious that it is not real wood. 

4. Fibreglass

If you want the best insulation for your windows, but you also want lightweight frames, then fibreglass could be the best option for you. Fibreglass is a man-made sheet of different materials. It has excellent insulation properties and doesn’t deform. Fibreglass It is light, but extremely stable and holds its shape under a lot of pressure.