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Did you know that the average age for homes in North Jersey is 62 years? Back then, most houses were originally built with wooden windows which, for that time, were perfectly acceptable.
It wasn't until the 1970s when vinyl windows became more mainstream, due in no small part to the energy crisis. With heating oil and gas being rationed (and expensive), many homeowners started replacing their old wood windows with vinyl because they were so much more energy efficient.
Today's vinyl windows are still a great choice for energy efficient windows for cold winters in Northern Jersey. With their combination of long-lasting materials, affordability and energy efficiency, they're the best windows for New Jersey Metro area climate changes.
Why choose vinyl windows?
For replacement windows for homes in Northern New Jersey, vinyl windows are the answer. The advantages of vinyl windows include:
- Weather-Resistant Construction. Vinyl windows are made from PVC, the same material as some of the pipes in your home. They're water-resistant, so they'll keep out the snow and rain, so you won't have to worry about mold or mildew inside your home.
- Energy Efficient. Testing has shown that vinyl windows (from Window Nation) have significantly less leaking air, and their insulated frames make for higher energy efficiency than wood or wood-composite windows. They're so good, you'll actually start sving money every month on your heating and cooling bills.
- Affordable. Vinyl windows provide excellent value, considering their energy efficiency, insulated frames and high-quality seals. All this comes at a price that, on average, is significantly less than wood-framed windows.
- No maintenance required. Unlike wood windows, vinyl never needs to be scraped and repainted every couple years to prevent rot. Because of this, companies like Window Nation are able to back their windows with a lifetime warranty which make vinyl windows lifespan go for several decades.
So what are the disadvantages of choosing vinyl windows?
- Cannot be painted if you want to change the color. Unlike wood windows, vinyl windows cannot be painted if you choose to change the color. However, many vinyl window manufacturers are able to offer several colors that can be applied at the factory. Companies like Window Nation offer over 1,500 colors and style combinations, so you can get what you want.
- Less glass window area. It's a small amount less, but if you're looking for the maximum window glass size, vinyl windows will have fractionally less glass area to enjoy the view through them. This, however, is made up for by their insulated frames that offer the higher energy efficiency.
- Can vary widely in quality. With vinyl windows, you get what you pay for. Inexpensive vinyl windows from budget retailers, builders, or big box stores are often of much lesser quality which quickly reveals itself in the lower energy efficiency, flexible materials and poor fit.
Why choose wooden windows?
If you're thinking, "what can I get from window replacement companies near me?" you may find some retailers offering wood-frame windows. The advantages of wood windows include:
- Classic look for historic homes. Depending on the age of your home, it may have originally been built with wood windows. If you want to replicate that look, the natural choice is wood windows.
- Strong Frames. Because of their fibrous nature, wood frame windows offer slightly more rigidity to vinyl. However, once installed, there is no structural load placed on the windows, so the lateral strength is not needed.
- Easy to perform color changes. Wood windows require periodic scraping, repainting and maintenance, so it's easy to change the color inside or outside to suit your taste.
So what are the wood windows disadvantages for Northern New Jersey homeowners?
- They are not maintenance-free. Every couple years, you'll need to have the outsides scraped of old paint and repainted to keep it waterproof and prevent the wood from rotting.
- Expensive cost. Wood windows are some of most expensive windows you can buy, and will not necessarily mean you're getting a better, more energy-efficient window for your hard-earned money.
- They're organic material. Like other wood in your home, like your flooring or doors, wood-framed windows will expand and shrink depending on the weather. This means that the close fit they had when they were installed won't be consistent throughout the year.
- Wood composite windows aren't solid wood. Don't be confused by the name. Wood composite windows are made from refuse materials, like saw dust and glue. They also come at a premium price that's less than wood, but can't compare to wood (or quality vinyl) windows.
Now that you understand the pros and cons of each option, you're better prepared to choose energy-efficient windows for your North Jersey home. Contact your local Window Nation expert today!