Wood Windows as Replacements

Around the window industry, there is a lot of talk about wood windows. Typically, most of the talk is focused on the replacement of older wood windows rather than purchasing new wood windows for your home. For years wood was the material of choice for the majority of homeowners, but as time went on and technology brought us new options, wood windows dropped several spots on the popularity list.

Undeniably, wood windows offer a rich, traditional look that other types of windows strive to match. In recent years technology has provided much needed advances for window quality and energy efficiency. With technological advances in the design and style of new windows, other types of windows are close but have yet to surpass the aesthetically appealing look of the wood window.

Homeowners not only like wood windows for the traditional look they offer to the home, but wood windows also offer color flexibility. More than any other type of window, wood is by far the best material to paint. Wood windows are also a great insulator and are excellent at inhibiting the transmission of cold or heat from the outside.

So why are wood windows being replaced more often than being purchased? Maintaining wood windows can become overwhelming and exhausting, especially if you have a considerable amount of windows in your home. In order for the windows to maintain their great look, they need to be repainted every few years as the paint begins to chip and peel away.

Additionally, wood windows have a tendency to swell and shrink as the outside temperature and weather fluctuate. Over a period of time, these changes can cause the window to warp, rot and even crack.

These drawbacks and the fact that wood replacement windows tend to cost more than other types of windows push many homeowners in a different direction. The decision comes down to whether the homeowner is willing to keep up with the ongoing maintenance in order to have the traditional, elegant look of wood windows.