What Frame Material Options are There?
Understand the top frame choices and which is right for your project.
3 min read
When choosing the window frame material that's best for your home, it is important to consider durability, maintenance, aesthetics, frame strength, and insulative properties.
Read on to learn more about different window frame types and what each one has to offer.
Types of Window Frame Materials
VINYL
Vinyl window frames are one of the most popular options available on the market, and for good reason. They are composed of PVC (polyvinyl chloride), which is a material commonly used in a number of household and plumbing products. Vinyl window frames are durable, fade-resistant, sustainable, strong, and affordable; making them an excellent choice.
Buyers need to be careful when shopping for vinyl windows as there are cheap options available that are not a good value.
Pros
– Extremely energy-efficient material, enhancing the function of Energy Star rated windows.
– Airtight, ensuring no air enters or escapes your home to help regulate temperatures.
– Very low maintenance and easy to clean.
– Extremely long lifespan of 15-20 years.
– Highly resistant to rotting and corrosion.
– Resistant to UV rays.
– Very affordable compared to other materials.
Cons
– Less customization available as vinyl cannot be painted.
– Vinyl cannot be recycled at the end of its life.
ALUMINUM
Aluminum window frames give off a very sleek looking appearance due to their thin frame size. Compared to other materials, they do not require much upkeep and are a strong choice. Being lightweight, yet strong, aluminum can accommodate larger panes of glass to allow more natural light into your home. Keep in mind that aluminum performs the poorest of all window material options when it comes to energy efficiency and insulation.
Pros
– Being easy to manipulate, aluminum allows for the creation of unique shapes and more customization when it comes to fit.
– Durable, lightweight, and easy to install.
– Frame can be fairly narrow, allowing for a larger viewing area.
Cons
– Aluminum is not a good insulator, making it the least energy-efficient material choice.
– It is common for moisture to become trapped inside aluminum window frames.
– Can be prone to corrosion depending on climate conditions.
FIBERGLASS
Fiberglass window frames are made from a combination of resin and reinforced glass fibers with a foam-filled core. They are aesthetically pleasing and are similar in appearance to wood windows. Fibreglass window frames are also highly energy-efficient, and durable.
Pros
– Extremely energy-efficient and insulating due to their foam-filled core.
– Resistant to flaking, peeling, rotting, mold, and corrosion.
– Can withstand extreme temperature changes without expanding or warping.
– Eco-friendly and recyclable.
Cons
– Less customizable in terms of hardware and color.
– Installation can take longer.
– More expensive than other options.
WOOD-CLAD
Wood-clad window frames are solid wood covered by a fiberglass or aluminum exterior. The combination of two materials provides the option for frames that look like they are wooden, without the maintenance that comes with fully wood frames.
Pros
– Many color and customization options.
– With proper care and maintenance, they can last a long time.
– Good durability and visually appealing.
Cons
– Wood-clad window frames can often be more expensive than other options.
– Over time, the cladding may become weak and actually separate.
COMPOSITE
Composite window frames are made by combining metal, vinyl, and wood. The idea is that the combination of materials will provide you with the “pro” aspects of each in order to create a sturdy window frame. Think of it as a happy compromise between all three. Composite windows look more like wood but perform more like vinyl, so you really get the best of both worlds.
Pros
– Resistant to moisture damage, rotting, and frame warping.
– Customizable color as they can be painted.
– Environmentally friendly frame options.
– Energy-efficient.
Cons
– Composite window frames are a pricey option compared to their counterparts.
– Durability varies depending on manufacturing.
FINAL THOUGHTS
Selecting a frame material is a big decision. The pros and cons should be carefully considered, but you really cannot go wrong with any option. It often comes down to budget and personal preference, but can also be dictated by window size and color requirements.
From least to most expensive: vinyl, composite, fiberglass, aluminum-clad wood. Although it is the least expensive, vinyl is a great option for most homes in North Texas.
Regardless of frame material, we recommend staying away from the manufacturers of cheap windows as quality of materials, quality of build, quality control, and honoring of their warranty are corners that are often cut to be the low-cost leader. The manufacturers we partner with have a solid reputation and offer great products - ones that we would be happy to have in our own home.