Wood has been the preferred residential window material for many years for its visual appeal and design flexibility. Wood has a rich warm look (even when painted) and because they can be painted or stained, wooden windows offer almost unlimited color options.With the advent of wood clad windows you can get the best of both worlds, the timeless beauty of wood on the inside with the durability and low maintenance of vinyl or aluminum on the exterior. Wood windows are an excellent option for new construction as well as remodeling projects.
Energy Efficient Wood Windows
Wood is an excellent insulator that is very resistant to condensation and provides an excellent R Value. Wood windows also have excellent resistance to extreme temperatures so their performance is not reduced when you need it most – when it is really hot or really cold. When paired with energy efficient glass such as dual pane, Low E coating, Argon of Krypton gas filled, wood windows receive excellent energy star window ratings. Certain wood windows also qualify for the IRS energy tax credit.
Wood is especially appropriate for traditional architecture and interior design styles. Wood windows also make good replacement windows because you can order then in custom sizes. The main drawback to wood windows is that they require more maintenance than vinyl windows. Regular painting or staining/sealing is required to keep them in good condition. Wood windows that are not properly maintained will begin to crack and split, which reduces their energy efficiency and can prevent them from opening, closing and locking properly. However, if wood windows are maintained adequately their life expectancy is longer vinyl windows.
Wood Clad Replacement Windows
Wood clad windows have either a vinyl or aluminum exterior and a wooden interior. These windows offer the low maintenance benefits of vinyl and aluminum replacement windows and the elegance and flexibility of wood on the interior.
Types of Wood Windows
Popular materials for wood replacement windows includes:
- Pine
- Knotty alder
- Oak
- Douglas fir
- Mahogany
- Walnut
- Cherry
Talk with a wood window sales or installation professional about other wood options. Many wood window manufacturers can custom make windows out of the wood of your choice. Eco friendly wood window options are now available too. Talk with your window replacement professional if you are interested in eco friendly options.
Styles of Wood Windows
Wood windows are available in many styles including:
- Double hung
- Single hung
- Casement
- Bay
- Picture
- Sliding
You can also get wood doors (entry, patio, storm, sliding, french) to match your windows.
Wood Window Options
You have a lot of options when replacing your old windows. In addition to the choice in type of wood and style of window, you can also choose to replace just the sash (also called ‘inserts’) or the entire window and frame. Replacement window inserts are cheaper because their is less material, manufacturing labor and installation labor. If the frames of the old windows you are replacing in good condition you may be able to use inserts and save a considerable amount of money.
Cost of Wood Windows
Wood windows cost more than vinyl and aluminum windows. For many, the additional cost is well worth it because of the beauty of wood. And if wood is properly maintained it has a longer life expectancy than vinyl. The price of wood windows is determined by the type of wood used. A window replacement contractor can explain the pros and cons of different types of wood as well as their cost.
Advantages of Wood Windows
- Visual appeal
- Unlimited color options (paint or stain)
- Long life expectancy if receive the proper care & maintenance
Disadvantages of Wood Windows
- High maintenance (require regular painting)
Wood Window Manufacturers
Some of the most popular and highest rated window manufacturers include:
- Andersen
- Pella
- Marvin
- Jeld Wen