Many peoples focus on the window and its thermal properties.
The frame itself comprises anywhere from 10 to 30 percent of the unit's surface area.
It's no news that the material has an impact on efficiency.
Window frames are an important part of a window's overall energy efficiency.
Window frames are available in a variety of materials including wood, vinyl, fiberglass and aluminum.
Each frame material has its advantages and disadvantages.
It's time to pick the best one for you.
Wood Wood has been readily available window substrate, and the most common choice for homes.
This windows have many modern features.
They will degrade over time.
Wood also is strong and easy to work with, is a natural insulator and complements many forms of traditional home architecture.
The advantages to Wood Windows are that they produce higher R-values.
Vinyl A vinyl window can be inexpensive, durable and remarkably energy efficient.
They do have advantages over aluminum window frames.
Vinyl windows are made primarily from polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and they are available in a wide range of standard sizes.
This material has many advantages.
Fiberglass Fiberglass is a frame material known for it's performance, durability and strength.
Fiberglass frame without metal spacers and rubber gaskets.
Fiberglass is the most stable material which provides an ideal base for a full range of finishes.
Fiberglass material is used in boats and bridge structures which face punishing loads and stresses as well as corrosive materials such as salt water.
Aluminum Thermally improved frames are the best of aluminum frames.
Aluminum was very competitive with wood.
Fiberglass is impervious to water, cold, heat, insects, salt air.
Fiberglass frames also are popular because a wood veneer can be added to the interior.