Vinyl Windows vs. Wood

The two most common options for choosing window frames for interiors are vinyl windows and wood framed. Vinyl windows and wood windows both offer a variety of unique elements and characteristics. One has to make a wise choice after looking at the benefits and drawbacks. A Vinyl window is an inexpensive way to imitate the charm of wood windows. Vinyl windows overcome the appeal of wood. However, homeowners are moved by the cost-effective nature of the vinyl window.

We will provide you with the benefits and drawbacks of vinyl windows and wood windows that will help you in making a smarter choice for your home.

Vinyl Windows vs. Wood – Maintenance:

When it comes to maintenance, vinyl is the wisest option. Vinyl windows do not require maintenance, whereas wood requires incidental care and attention. You do not have to paint or seal vinyl windows, but wood requires minor repainting and resealing. Therefore, frequent maintenance may be necessary for wood.

A wood-framed window is made of organic material, which is why it is more susceptible to climate damage and moisture. Whereas, vinyl windows are not vulnerable to similar problems because of they are an inorganic material and, hence, do not require frequent maintenance.

Vinyl Windows vs. Wood – Cost difference:

The cost difference is another factor that homeowners need to pay heed to. In terms of price, vinyl windows are much more cost-effective than wood windows. The average cost of vinyl windows is $400. On the other hand, wood framed windows have an average cost of $1100. The minimum cost of a wood window is $600. Vinyl windows are generally 30% cheaper than similar windows made of wood. This is because it is much more labor intensive and detailed to mill and manufacture wood windows than it is to process and weld vinyl components.

Vinyl window has a lower price tag than wood and is a cost-friendly option for homeowners. Homeowners should also be aware that the price of a wood window depends greatly upon the type and quality of wood. A Vinyl window is an inexpensive way of giving your home a wooden appearance.

Appealing Appearance:

When it comes to appealing exteriors and interiors, homeowners prefer wood windows over vinyl. Nothing can beat the aesthetic look that wood gives to the interior of a house. Wood windows may be painted or stained in all shades that lie between light and dark. Wood framed windows have a grainy texture that vinyl windows cannot emulate. However, manufacturers are focusing on making different patterns, foils and textures of vinyl windows to more closely imitate the natural beauty of a wood-stained product.

Another advantage of a wood window over a vinyl window is that a wood window does not fade quickly. But, lower-quality vinyl windows may, in fact, fade. Vinyl manufacturers do not prefer dark shades in vinyl window manufacturing. Wood as an organic substance comes in dark and light shades and does not tend to fade swiftly. A wood window offers a variety of textures and looks ranging from rustic to vintage wood. It provides a classic look and is clad with aluminum or fiberglass. A vinyl replacement window, while available customized according to the choice of your color, might cost more than the average beige or white vinyl window.

Installation:

Vinyl window installation is comparatively easier than wood. Manufacturers have pre-fabricated vinyl windows that make the overall process easy. Whereas wood installation requires two to three people. The weight of vinyl windows is 8-12 pounds, while wood weighs around 20-30 pounds. The weight of the wood window makes it time-consuming to install. Wood windows are also required to be custom-made according to the measurements. However, while installation there is a risk of bending and scratching a vinyl window. This only happens in rare cases when a non-professional installs the window.

Redecoration:

Vinyl windows do not provide you with the opportunity of redecorating them. Before installation, you can choose any print, pattern, or frame of vinyl windows. After installation, one cannot repaint vinyl windows. It does not allow repainting or any redecorations because it does not have the property of absorbing the paint. However, one can repaint the wood windows after reinstallation. Wood can absorb the paint, and you can redecorate wood windows in the future according to your liking. In the case of vinyl windows, you will have to change the windows and cannot redecorate with new paint.

Durability:

It is wise to choose vinyl windows for interiors and exteriors because of their durability. The Vinyl window is not exposed to problems like climate extremes, chipping, peeling, warping, cracking, and rotting. When exposed to the sun, the color of a vinyl window only fades but the wood window cracks.

Wood is an organic substance and is vulnerable. It tends to absorb water. Water penetrates through wood, softens it up, and causes warping and rotting of the wood. On the other hand, vinyl window, unlike wood is not absorbent of water. It can withstand harsh weather conditions like snow and rain and is resistant to termite damage, water, and humid conditions. Therefore, in many respects, a vinyl window is much more durable than a wood window.

Energy efficiency:

Vinyl windows are also known as easy breeze windows because of their energy efficiency. In terms of energy efficiency, vinyl windows and wood-framed windows both are good options. Wood is a slightly better insulator than vinyl, and it keeps the house warm. But vinyl windows are manufactured in a way to make them better sealers. It is sealed and does not allow air leakage. It keeps the air out in summers and the interior warm in winters. Modern manufactured vinyl includes a coating that tends to prevent harmful solar rays. The Vinyl window keeps the room at a constant temperature. Wood is also an absorber of noise. So, it reduces noise pollution, and less noise enters the house from outside.

Ecofriendly:

A wood-framed window is more eco-friendly than a vinyl replacement window. Both are recyclable, but wood as an organic material is biodegradable. Vinyl window consists of PVC, and it requires years to degrade.

Vinyl Windows vs. Wood – Conclusion:

To conclude, both of them have advantages and disadvantages. One can choose either of them contingent upon the budget, personal preference, visual appeals, and home necessities. Vinyl windows are now common because of their advantages over wood windows.