Thinking about replacing your windows? You’ve got some important choices to make, from pane selection and glazing to the type of frame you choose. When you’re trying to decide between aluminum versus vinyl windows, it can be difficult. Here are the pros and cons of each choice, so you can make the best decision for your home.
Vinyl frames
- Traditional looking: If you want your window frames to look like traditional window frames, vinyl is your best bet. While both types of windows are available in just about any single or double hung, double or triple-paned configurations you can think of, vinyl can offer a better aesthetic appearance. If you have a historical home, for example, vinyl frames can recreate the look of the original wood frames.
- Require less maintenance: While you might have to do the occasional caulking to avoid drafts, vinyl window frames are a much easier proposition than aluminum. All you need to do is regularly clean the frames—maybe once every few months, if that. Plus, vinyl is a very easy material to keep clean.
- Insulate better: Heat transfer can run up your energy bills, so buying energy efficient windows should be the solution to those problems. However, your frame choice matters. When you have vinyl frames, your heat transfer will be minimized. Heat does not pass well through vinyl. Aluminum frames are not usually equipped to prevent heat transfer, although there are some options that can get the job done.
- Less expensive: Finally, vinyl frames tend to be less expensive than aluminum. In fact, they’re about 30 percent less expensive. Window replacement is already an investment. Why not get windows with better energy efficiency and lower maintenance needs at the outset?
Aluminum frames
- Stronger overall: If your home has large windows, aluminum is stronger overall. They also have a better degree of impact resistance, whether you fear hurricanes or your six-year-old’s stray baseballs.
- More prone to dents, corrosion and fading: Aluminum is less likely to experience fading, dents and corrosion, which means your windows will look nicer for a longer period of time.
- Can be repainted or recoated: Finally, although vinyl frames almost never need to be repainted or recoated, aluminum frames can be spruced up pretty easily. If you choose aluminum frames, you’ll be able to change the window frame’s look for decades to come.
Which window type looks best to you?
If you’re not sure how to navigate window choices, the team at The Glass Shop will help with your window installation decision. Our team is dedicated to ensuring that you get the best windows for your needs. Whether that’s aluminum, vinyl or another type of frame, we want you to have the most energy efficient windows possible. Not sure about the pros and cons, and how they apply to your specific home? We’ll help you determine which is best.
Call The Glass Shop today to learn more about our selection and services. Our window installation professionals want to hear from you.