As homeowners around the Twin Cities are doing their spring cleaning and opening their windows to let in the fresh air, we’re getting calls from some who realize it’s time for new replacement windows. Spring is a good time to have your new windows installed so you’ll be ready for the warmer seasons ahead.
Replacement windows are an investment you’re making in your home, so you need to choose the right ones that work with the house, your needs, and your budget. We are asked which windows are best for a home a lot. There is no easy answer. If you check our window brands, you’ll see we offer quite a few. Why? Because no one window is right for everyone or every home. Which you choose depends on your needs and wants, as well as your home. That’s why we offer our customers choices, and why we often will suggest several different windows. Each of the window lines we carry comes with benefits, but they are not the same.
The most common thing we run into when people with older homes come to us is whether they should replace their wood windows with newer wood ones. This is especially true for those who own historic homes.
Frequently we suggest fiberglass windows that replicate the look of wood instead of all-wood windows. (We do, however, carry lines that are solid wood, if that is your preference.) And here are some things to compare and help make the decision.
Marvin Integrity Fiberglass windows – photo courtesy of Marvin Windows & Doors
Quality of Window Frame Materials
The quality of the materials used in constructing the window is very important. Fiberglass tends to be sturdier than wood. The frame and glass work together in these windows to create a strong barrier. When temperatures change, the fiberglass is not going to expand and contract as the wood ones will. Wood may also warp over timeand this can cause problems with the glass and window itself.
The Look of the Window
This is usually mostly personal preference, but you also have to consider how the home looks with either type of window. Sometimes older homes look better with wooden windows while newer homes do well with fiberglass. Wood usually looks beautiful though, in any setting it is put in. Fortunately if appearance is of primary consideration, we have a third option: Marvin Integrity windows that have real wood interiors clad with fiberglass exteriors.
The Maintenance Required
Maintenance is a big factor when choosing anything for a home. How much time and effort is it going to take on a regular basis? Will it require more money for upkeep? Of course you want those new windows to work like they should and look their best. Wood generally requires much more maintenance. You need to periodically sand them down, stain or paint them, seal them and make sure they are not soaking up the outside elements and becoming ruined. Fiberglass just needs to be wiped down from time to time.
Cost
Cost is a big factor for so many when choosing replacement windows. Wood and fiberglass windows have comparable costs associated with them. However, the brand you choose to go with might make the price vary. Fiberglass windows will usually come with a lifetime warranty and wood ones will not. So over time even a fiberglass window that costs more up front to install will end up being a more economical choice
Of course, ultimately it is up to you on the windows you choose, but we are happy to answer your questions and suggest alternatives. If you’re looking for a great replacement window, we offer great choices from a number of quality brands. Give us a call now to set up a time to speak with us in your home. We are a licensed Minnesota home remodeling contractor, and our speciality is energy-efficient replacement windows. We serve the greater Minneapolis and St. Paul metro area.
Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.
