In other words, some window materials last longer than others do. Vinyl will generally last for between 20 and 40 years. Wood, when properly maintained, will typically last around 30 years. On the other hand, aluminum generally only last around 20 years.
Because wood requires so much maintenance, manufacturers now offer a range of man-made materials. Besides broken glazing seals, if the frame is rotting, warped, drafty, or difficult to open and close, it's time to consider replacing it.
Timber windows, however, can last up to twice as long, and may never need to be replaced within your lifetime. With a bit of care, you can easily expect your timber windows to last up to 60 years, and beyond!
Not to say that the idea of replacing windows is always 'green washing', but it's not necessarily going to save energy and money once you run all the numbers, so we recommend that windows should only be replaced when renovating a home when they are in an "unsalvageable" state of disrepair or wood decay & rot.
When to Replace Your Windows. Home windows have a lifespan of 15-20 years. Once they reach this age, the seals start to weaken or fail, which leaves you open to drafts and water seepage. In addition, single-pane windows were the standard 15+ years ago.
The age of your windows is a good indicator of when they need replacing. While old windows might still be functional, there's a good chance they're not very efficient. Windows that are over 20 years old should be replaced.
The Drawbacks of Wood Windows
Maintenance: Wood requires more maintenance than vinyl or aluminum. Wood is more vulnerable to rot, termite infestation, and cracking or warping due to heat and moisture. Cracks and gaps in the wood can cause energy bills to rise.
Can You Replace Wood Windows with Vinyl? Yes. For many homeowners, replacing older wood windows with vinyl windows is a good option. Not only are vinyl windows efficient and affordable, they can help make the exterior of your home look modern and clean.
Vinyl is energy efficient
While well-insulated wooden frames can achieve the same U-value as vinyl on the day of installation, that number will start, and continue to, fall as it warps and cracks. Older wooden windows can't meet the industry standard for thermal efficiency, let alone improve upon it.
High maintenance: Wooden frames need to be regularly sanded, painted and treated to avoid some of the aforementioned problems. Cost: Wood-frame windows generally have a higher initial cost than vinyl or aluminum options.
This is partly due to the manufacturing process, along with the amount of material you need per window. Also, the upkeep of timber windows can also add to their overall cost.
Historic wood windows are considered to be one of the important distinguishing characteristics of historic buildings and the protection of historic wood windows not only preserves an irreplaceable resource but are also cost-effective to the homeowner and are environmentally responsible.
Is it cheaper to replace all windows at once? Generally yes, the cost per window will likely be lower if you choose to purchase your windows in bulk and replace them all at the same time. Doing so will usually save on labor costs for installation as well.
Overall, vinyl windows give you a great bang for your buck. Yet, regardless of all these benefits, wood windows remain the gold standard in the replacement window industry.
What are the drawbacks of vinyl windows? The biggest problem with vinyl windows is that they are not very durable if they are not made well. Low-quality vinyl windows will bend, bow, misshape, and crack when exposed to changing temperatures.
Where Andersen has innovated with vinyl is by using it as a protective cladding for its wood core windows. This combination of a weather-resistant vinyl exterior, the strength of a solid wood frame and the beauty of a wood interior performs well beyond what vinyl can achieve on its own.
They have pros and cons. The worst problems are with low-quality vinyl windows, especially in temperature extremes. Vinyl windows have some problems. They're not the most aesthetically pleasing, they're not durable, and they're not environmentally sound.
Since wood windows are durable and long-lasting, they don't need to be replaced as often as other windows. Their lasting durability has an effect on their price. Unit costs can be high due to the rising cost of lumber and a lack of manufacturing and availability. Plus, they can be an expensive window to produce.
The answer depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you want a natural material with a classic look, then wood may be the right choice for you. If you are looking for a low-maintenance option that is available in a variety of colors, then PVC may be the better choice.
Wood windows are costlier. Whether it is the law of supply and demand, the price of beauty, or just the fact that fewer companies make wood windows, wood windows do tend to be more expensive than vinyl windows.
As already mentioned, the longest-lasting window frame material is fiberglass. This is because wood can deteriorate and warp over time and vinyl will eventually corrode, crack, and warp. Fiberglass is as durable as they come, resisting warping, cracking, and rusting.
If you're using a mouse, move your cursor to the bottom-right corner of your screen, then move up to click Settings. Then click Change PC settings. Select PC and devices, then PC info. Under Windows, you can find the edition and version of your OS.
Check the weather-stripping. You want neoprene and multiple layers/applications of it in each window. Stay away from brush type as its inferior in every way. Look for powder coated or stainless steel hardware.