If you are going to invest in a home remodel, the windows are always a smart choice. When you invest in new windows, you are giving inside and outside of your home a major upgrade. Even though window replacement is a major investment, this makes it a very cost effective decision. Of course, some products or more cost effective than others, especially when it comes to the long term maintenance requirements. This article looks at the maintenance necessary for wooden and aluminum windows.
Aluminum Windows
Aluminum windows have partly been supplanted by materials like vinyl in PVC when it comes to mass produced residential windows. The synthetic products are often preferred by builders because they are cheaper, more durable, and more energy efficient. However, most homers don't really want windows that look like plastic. Aluminum has a stronger look that definitely lends itself to modern building styles.
Aluminum is definitely a low maintenance product, but it can't be susceptible to rusting if it is not properly cared for. Usually, as long as you clean your aluminum on a regular basis with water or basic household cleaners, there's really nothing to worry about. However, if the paint finish gets chipped or scratched off, the metal behind it can get exposed, and then you could have problems with rusting.
Wooden Windows
Wooden windows are generally considered to be high maintenance. Compared to the other popular products, they are definitely the highest maintenance choice. That being said, you shouldn't necessarily be turned off by wood when it comes to your windows because the maintenance is not something you really need to worry about on a regular basis. Wooden windows need to be kept waterproof to protect the shape and finish of the wood. This is most important on movable windows. When wood gets wet, it becomes warped and swollen, meaning that it can be very difficult to operate. So, you need to make sure the stain, which tints the wood and protects the surface is always strong. When this fades away or rubs off, you need to refinish your windows. This is something that you might need to worry about once every ten to twenty years. It's not something you need to worry about very often, so don't be afraid of the maintenance requires to maintain wooden windows.
In the end, you should choose between aluminum and wood based on your personal style preference. They are both great products the will make your fixtures much more functional. For more information, contact companies like JFK Window & Door Co.
