Wood Replacement Windows

Considering replacement windows is a big task.  There are many choices to make and factors to consider.  Like anything else wood replacement windows have their good points and bad points.  You have to weigh the pros and cons before making a final decision.

Wood replacement windows are available in a wide variety of types including dark woods like mahogany or cherry to the lighter woods like pine.  The interior frame, which is exposed in your home, can either be stained to a shade of your choice or left natural.  If you choose, you can even paint the wood.  Although if you don’t wish to have the look of wood, another material choice might be better for you.  But wood windows have a very high aesthetic appeal to both homeowners and potential homebuyers.  If you want a fantastic way to increase your home’s resale value, consider putting in some wood replacement windows.

Wood windows do often carry a high price tag.  The price will vary a lot depending on the type of wood or stain that’s being used, but it will be a lot more expensive than vinyl or aluminum windows.  If you plan on being in your home for a very long time, it will definitely be worth the price to have such a distinctive and beautiful look in your home.  But if you are planning on moving in a year and have no desire to increase the value of your home, you would probably be better spending that money elsewhere.

Also keep in mind that wood windows will require a lot more maintenance than most other window types.  Not only will the windows have to be sealed or painted at the time of installation, but throughout the life of the window.  This is only the inside of the window since the outside has cladding to protect them.  But painting wood is a very precise and difficult task, as is sealing it.  So it can mean a lot of work.  If you live in a very humid or warm climate, wood windows will become even more expensive in repairs.  The humidity or extremes in temperature can cause the interior wood to warp or become misaligned.  This can mean anything from a costly repair to reposition it or an even costlier complete replacement if the warping is especially bad.

But if you live in a mild climate with no drastic extremes in temperature, then wood could be the perfect choice for you.  Wood is naturally very insulating.  If it’s cold outside, feel the frame of a wood door or window.  You will find that it is warm compared to the outdoor temperature.  Wood windows are the best at insulating against heat and cold.  Naturally this will save you money on your heating and cooling cost and ultimately the windows will likely end up paying for themselves over a few years.