There are few potential investments one can make in their lives that’s bigger than the purchase and maintenance of a home. Our homes not only serve as assets, but as comfortable and safe spaces for families. It’s for this reason that making the right choices with regard to home improvement are so crucial: balancing comfort, cost and long-term reliability should be a guiding force in any home project.
Older homes will occasionally need window replacements, and new homes obviously will need these elements installed as well. There are a variety of window types to consider – both in terms of the glass/transparent materials used, as well as the frames/windows themselves.
Many are talking about the benefits of UPVC windows and how they compare to wooden windows, but which one is right for your home? Continue reading to find out each type’s pros and cons.
Costs of UPVC Windows & Wooden Windows
Many imagine that the costs of simple wooden windows would be lower than that of UPVC windows, but the true cost of ownership isn’t so simple.
While all window types will have standard costs such as installation, sealant and so forth, wooden windows start with a low price tag. However, many types of wooden windows need to be replaced every few years depending on quality, environmental and weather conditions, and installation method.
Long-term, UPVC windows can save homeowners anywhere from 20 to 30 percent in window costs. Especially when coupled with a quality sealant (such as this Premium Glazing Silicone from Illbruck), costs saved through energy efficiency can quickly add up. Illbruck offers a plethora of sealant options depending on use on the home’s interior, exterior, roof or windows which are worth exploring.
Aesthetic Concerns of UPVC & Wooden Windows
How your home’s windows look are, of course, a concern both in day-to-day life and in terms of maximizing long-term value (think curb appeal). In many ways, wooden windows do provide a more seamless and aesthetically-pleasing look to most homes. However, UPVC does provide a mixture of aesthetics and practicality.
Wooden windows may need to be painted every few years, precipitating the need for DIY projects or contractors. UPVC windows do not need to be painted and generally only require occasional wiping or cleaning to maintain their look.
Energy Efficiency of UPVC & Wooden Windows
It’s important to consider how energy efficient the windows you’re installing are, as these impact long-term costs and your environmental impact.
Ultimately, UPVC windows are far more energy efficient throughout the year, helping to minimize the trapping of heat in the summer months and repelling colder air from outside during the winter months.
While select homes in far northern climates might benefit from wood’s heat-insulating effects, it is generally a slight net-negative for those in more temperate climates (click here for info on the best windows for each region).
The type of glass or pane (along with sealant) used in each window type can also impact energy efficiency, but a general rule of thumb is that UPVC windows are going to reduce heating and cooling loss in the home by at least 10 percent compared to wooden windows. It’s not a one-size-fits-all verdict, but UPVC windows tend to be the better choice for most homes. If you aren’t sure how long you’ll be living in your current home, then choosing wooden windows may make more sense. As long as you carefully consider the factors involved, you’ll pick the best window type based on your exact situation!