What different types of materials are used to manufacture windows?
Posted on 19. Apr, 2010 by admin in Featured Articles, New Construction, Remodeling
Aluminum-clad window exteriors allow for years of maintenance-free usage.
Years ago, steel and wood were the primary materials used to manufacture windows. With recent technology and innovation enhancements, windows are now constructed with many different materials that are more energy efficient, are low maintenance, and are more structurally sound. Whether you are building a new custom home or are renovating an existing home, there are several options to consider. Some of the more popular in the last decade have been:
- Aluminum clad: This allows window manufacturers to produce a wood product that has an exterior covered in aluminum to help protect against weather deterioration and reduce maintenance costs. Aluminum clad is also available in many different exterior colors.
- Vinyl: This material has gained in popularity more than any other material due to its low costs and ease of maintenance. However, it is typically only available in two colors and doesn’t have many of the aesthetically appealing design features that you find in other windows.
- Wood: The aesthetic appeal of a wood window has dominated the building industry for many years; this is the window material that all others are compared against. With its beauty comes a price, however: the need for maintenance to protect it against environmental conditions.
- Fiberglass: This is another material that is gaining in popularity. Although it is new to the industry, because of its strength, beauty, and color options, it is a viable choice for many homeowners and home builders.
Most major companies have product offerings in each of these categories. For more information about windows for your Nashville- or Middle Tennessee–area home, please call Scott Kwierant at Pella Windows and Doors at (615) 587-6133, or visit www.pella.com.
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