Benefits of Wooden Window Frames

Materials Matter

When replacing the windows in your house, it is important to consider both the material of the window itself and the material of the frame. As we have noted elsewhere, some window materials are better insulators and let less heat through. But the window frame is important too, from the perspective of energy efficiency as well as cost and aesthetic appeal.

It is true that the cost of wooden window frames is usually higher than the cost of frames made of other materials, such as aluminum or vinyl, but the extra cost can be made up for in various ways. For one thing, the Energy Star program offers tax credits to homeowners making renovations tha tresult in greater energy-efficiency, and in some cases will offer a tax credit of as high as $1,500. For another thing, wooden frames are more energy-efficient than frames made from other materials. Not only is wood a natural insulator, but modern improvements to window hardware can allow you to keep the classical look of wood without sacrificing energy efficiency.

From an aesthetic point of view, wooden frames come with both benefits and liabilities. One benefit is obvious: wooden frames give a beautiful, natural look to any room, This “natural” look, of course, comes at a price: wood can be susceptible to rot and deterioration. Depending on the climate in which you live, this may or may not be a problem for you. Generally speaking, damp climates are worse for wood. On the other hand, wooden frames can be repainted indefinitely. If you decide that the elegance afforded by wooden frames is worth the time that you will invest in maintaining them, wooden frames may be the way to go.

If you do decide that wooden frames are right for you, make sure to buy frames of a high enough quality. As with any investment, higher costs at the beginning can be made up for by substantial savings over time. Particularly if you live in a climate that is not kind to wood, it is important that your frames be durable. All wood is susceptible to swelling, warping, buckling, and rot, but high-quality frames are less susceptible than low-quality frames, and will require less maintenance to keep them looking their best and keeping your heating and cooling costs as low as possible.

It can be hard to weigh the benefits, both aesthetic and financial, of wooden frames versus other materials. To make the most informed decision possible, feel free to fill out our contact form above, to be contacted by a window professional who will help you to make the best choice for you.