Good windows are important. Besides the practical function, they add to your home’s security and curb appeal. If you’re considering replacing your old windows, you’re probably overwhelmed with the choice of type, style, material composition, and size. It can be hard to know where to begin.
If you want the most benefits from your investment, we suggest you consider composite windows, one of the latest advances in material use. This advanced window type is good value for the money as it offers durability and energy savings at an affordable price.
Why Are Good Windows So Important?
Besides giving you the ability to see what’s outside and allowing sunlight in, windows let fresh air in when open and keep bad weather and strong winds out while closed.
Windows also help you save money on energy bills. The U.S. Department of Energy reports that windows account for 25-30% of your home’s HVAC energy usage. So by investing in high-quality windows, you can reduce energy costs over time.
What Are Composite Windows?
So, what exactly are composite windows? Simply put, composite windows are made from a combination of materials with many benefits other window materials can’t match.
A composite is a combination of materials that create something new. Composite windows combine wood, vinyl, and aluminum, making them stronger, more lightweight, and more long-lasting than other windows.
What Are Composite Windows Made Of?
Composite windows typically consist of a frame made from fiberglass, vinyl, wood, and plastic. The glass can be regular glass, safety glass, or energy-saving glass.
Characteristics of Composite Windows
Why are composite windows so special? Let’s take a closer look at some of the key characteristics:
- Durability: Composite windows are known for their exceptional durability. They resist warping, cracking, and fading, which means they require less maintenance for the homeowner.
- Energy-Saving: Composite windows help you save on heating and cooling bills by being air-tight, reducing the amount of heat loss in the winter and cooled air in the summer.
- Price: They may be more expensive than other material options, but they are less expensive than, say, high-quality wood and aluminum.
- Selection: When you stop by your local window installer’s showroom, you’ll be amazed at the wide range of colors, finishes, and styles available. Designing windows that compliment your home’s architectural design is easy with such an array of options.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Composite Windows
As with any window material, composite windows have positive and negative traits:
Composite Window Advantages:
Durability, Energy Efficiency, Affordability, Variety
Composite Window Disadvantages: Less Insulation, Pricier, Aesthetics
Types of Composite Windows
As stated before, the selection of composite windows is vast. Here are the most common types:
Fiberglass: These windows are built on a fiberglass frame and have excellent durability and energy efficiency.
Wood-Plastic: These combine wood fibers and plastic to create a super-strong material that is resistant to moisture.
Aluminum: Built on an aluminum frame and a composite material like fiberglass, this type offers both strength and better insulation.
Vinyl: These have a vinyl frame with composite reinforcements for added strength and durability.
Short Comparison with Other Window Materials
Now that we’ve covered the basics of composite windows let’s compare them to other window materials:
- Composite Windows vs. Vinyl Windows: Although a bit pricier than vinyl windows, composite windows are tougher and save more on energy costs. Vinyl is the best option for a tight budget, but they tend not to last as long as composite.
- Composite Windows vs. Wood Windows: Everyone knows how beautiful high-quality wood can be, and they provide superior insulation. But they do cost more than composite windows and will also require more maintenance after a few years.
- Composite Windows vs. Aluminum Windows: Aluminum is known for being extremely strong and long-lasting. But they don’t save money on energy costs like composite windows do. Aluminum is also vulnerable to condensation, which, if not addressed, can lead to moisture issues.
Summary
Composite windows are crafted from a unique combination of materials to give the homeowner the benefits of each material in one window type. They may cost a bit more, but they will last longer and save on energy, which offsets the higher cost.
Contact Northwest Exteriors for All Your Composite Window Needs
Northwest Exteriors has decades of experience helping homeowners choose the right windows for their homes. We can help you too! Whether your priority is energy-savings, beauty, or security, our design team can help you select the perfect color, size, and pane type to fit your needs.
Choose from a wide array of high-quality composite windows from the leading manufacturers with Low-E, security, and insulating pane options.
Then our expert installation team works quickly and efficiently to complete your project seamlessly and with minimal disruption. All you have to do once we’re done is enjoy your new windows.
From the initial design consultation to the completed installation, our team will be on hand to answer any questions and ensure that the process goes smoothly.
Are you ready to upgrade your home’s windows? Then contact Northwest Exteriors today to schedule a consultation. With our help and outstanding service, you can enjoy a more comfortable, energy-efficient home for years.
