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COMPARISONS OF WINDOW FRAME TYPES
Below
is a "general" summary of the pros and cons of
different frame types. The ratings and opinions expressed are
relative and arbitrary and should be used as discussion points
when choosing between specific frame types.
|
****
Highest/Best |
Aluminum |
Vinyl |
Wood |
Fiberglass |
Composites |
| PRICE |
* |
** |
**** |
**** |
**** |
| QUALITY |
* |
** |
*** |
**** |
**** |
| U-VALUE |
* |
**** |
**** |
**** |
**** |
| WARRANTY |
*** |
**** |
** |
*** |
*** |
| MAINTENANCE |
*** |
**** |
** |
**** |
*** |
| COLOR |
* |
* |
**** |
** |
*** |
|
|
ALUMINUM FRAMES
| PROS |
CONS |
Least
expensive
Narrowest Frame Profile
Special Colors Available
Minimal - No Maintenance |
Poorest
Insulator
Warranties across the industry not as long as vinyl
Greater Susceptibility to pitting and corrosion
Most are Mechanically fastened corners |
|
VINYL FRAMES
| PROS |
CONS |
Excellent
Insulator
Frame Profiles more consistent with
wood profiles
Fusion welded corners
No Maintenance
Long warranties |
Heavier
Frame Profiles
Limited Colors - (Paintable New Technology)
Requires more experienced installers |
|
WOOD FRAMES
| PROS |
CONS |
Excellent
Insulator
Can duplicate existing wood
Unlimited choices in colors / stain
Beauty/Warmth |
Expensive
Limited Warranties
Continual Maintenance
Limited product offerings for replacement windows |
|
|
|
FIBERGLASS FRAMES
| PROS |
CONS |
Excellent
Insulator
Frame profiles more consistent with
Wood profiles
Unlimited choices in colors / siding
Good Warranties
Strongest, most dimensionally stable
Environmentally correct |
Expensive
Not all are easily retrofitted
Must Maintain Interior Finishes (Woodclad)
Long Lead Times
Lack of Consumer Awareness |
|
|
|
COMPOSITE FRAMES
| PROS |
CONS |
Excellent
Insulator
Good Warranties
Frame profiles consistent with Wood |
Expensive |
|
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