sethson.com » Windows

Advantages and Disadvantages of Wooden Windows Compared With Aluminium and Vinyl Windows

Brian — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 23:53:30 +0000

Okay, so it might be a bit hard to decide which window is best. Which should you choose? Should you go with glass windows or plastic windows? Polyvinyl Chloride (pvc) or Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET)? Aluminum or wooden frames? There are so many details that one must focus on, and there are many sources on the internet that will discuss these things, but now let us focus on what we call the wooden windows. Let us explore its features its components.

Disadvantages of Wooden Windows

Wooden windows can insulate a room very well as compared to glass or plastic windows. However, windows with wooden frames will contract and expand, depending on the current weather condition. Wooden frames are also generally thicker and heavier than most other window frames, which make it really hard to keep, and allow less opportunity to get a large view out of the window. Having wooden frames also reduces how much natural light can come into the room, thus, lessening the opportunity for daylighting.

Another disadvantage of wooden windows is that wooden frames require the most maintenance. However, wooden frames, when combined with other types like aluminum or vinyl may lessen this (but increase the cost!).

Advantages of Wooden Windows

Wooden windows and frames are not all that bad though. The good thing about wooden frames is that it gives a more elegant and natural feel to your place Wooden windows tend to be more old fashioned and traditional, thus, giving it the more aged and antique look if that is what you want to achieve.

So why buy wooden frames?

Because it is elegant! Wooden frames will look really great in your home especially if you are aiming for a very homey and natural atmosphere.

Taking Care of Your Wooden Windows

Wooden windows tend to become quite brittle and easier to break especially if weathered constantly. However, sometimes, the cause of this is merely improper window parts alignment. That is why it is still very essential to have your windows properly installed.

Also when replacing your wooden window parts, make sure that the windows are properly reinstalled. Though hiring window experts may be quite costly, it is still better to be sure than live with the long term consequences of what might happen. It might make you spend even more than you should have in the first place.

It is also simply best to always have a regular exterior examination of your wooden windows for maintenance. One must be able to remove and replace old (loose or cracked) putty on your window and then later on repaint them. Make sure that you have sealed all parts of the jambs that are unsealed or unpainted with oil. Also wipe any condensation that forms on the bottom rail of your sash (this happens most of the time during winter season). Ensure that the bottom faces of your sash are covered with primer and finish paint, too, to ensure smooth movement and elegance.

The prime things to remember with wooden windows and frames is to never paint the movable parts of the window as well as those touched by the moving part, and do not touch fresh glaze or putty since it is very soft (this will stay like this for months so be very careful in closing and opening your wooden window).

Advantages of Flat and Bubble Skylight Windows for Your House

Brian — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 23:52:57 +0000

Don’t you just think windows are so important in home design? Not only do windows provide design and style to your home, but it also enables energy and money savings as well. Okay, so you may be asking how windows can actually affect your electricity bill and how it can help save the environment in its own way. Well, it is possible. Just read along and find out for yourself.

Daylighting Benefits

First and foremost, let us talk about daylighting. Daylighting is the technique of using natural light to provide illumination to a certain place. This technique enables the occupants of the place to have natural internal lighting at their place, thus, saving them energy and money because they would not have to turn on their lights at all during the day. This really helps! Daylighting is also the basis of the passive solar technique which effectively utilizes windows according to an area’s climate. For instance, cooler areas with overcast skies have minimal windows on the side of the building facing the poles and larger windows on the side of the equator. That is because, on the side of the poles, there is really no direct sunlight, whereas on the side of the equator, direct sunlight is received especially during the sunny days of the year, making them very effective for daylighting in such areas of the globe. However, relying on such techniques may also bring about some problems as deep shadows can also be caused by direct sunlight especially during the mid-winter season.

This is where skylight windows come into the picture. They are great energy and money savers.

Types of Skylight Windows

Flat skylight windows (which are much like other windows at home) are quite common. Bubble skylight windows come in a dome shape which kind of protrudes on the roof. Square and rectangle shapes of skylight windows are also very famous. There is also what we call ventilating skylight windows which also allow fresh air to come into your home. When you have attics, then sky tunnels are perfect for you. Sky tunnels still allow the sun to shine right in to your home. Sky tunnels use reflective metal tubing to allow the sun light to come inside.

Why Buy Skylight Windows?

As mentioned earlier, skylight windows are able to provide illumination into your home during the day. Usually installed as roof windows, parts of your home with such windows are illuminated easily and with no electric charge. Why? Well, that is because you would not have to turn on your lights anymore as you already have natural light!

Skylight windows also come in different designs! Shapes, sizes, and surfaces differ for skylight windows, too. Just make sure your window is coupled with the correct installation and techniques to be able to maximize its ability. As I have said, there are many kinds to choose from when it comes to skylight windows, so variety and style is not a problem.

If you are worrying about the cost, skylight window prices differ a lot, and there would surely be a skylight window that would fit right into your budget. Just consider the slope of your roof, the type of your roof system (may be cathedral, gable, or flat) and how big or small you want the skylight window to be as these are the factors that will affect the price.

Energy Windows through Caulking, Weather Striping and Window Frame Replacement

Brian — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 23:52:27 +0000

Okay, so you may wonder, are there really such things as “energy windows?” Well, energy windows may also be known as low energy windows and may be defined as windows that can provide maximum energy efficiency. This is, of course, preferably coupled with high cost efficiency as well. So how can one window be energy efficient?

Efficiency of Energy Windows

Windows should not be underrated. Windows can be more than just for the style design of your home or office. Aside from the fact that it can provide a (great) view for you to enjoy, windows permit cost efficiency as it may allow the user to save energy and utilize less electricity. In what way, you may ask? There is a technique called “daylighting” wherein windows are utilized to illuminate a place, thus, eliminating the need for electrical lights at least during daytime. These energy windows give beauty, light, and warmth to your rooms or buildings.

Energy windows may also be utilized to reduce both heating and cooling costs for you. Heat gain and loss can be minimized with the use of energy windows. For example, in rooms with air conditioning, not only will air leak around windows and waste your electricity and money, it will also waste energy as well since energy will also pass through those places.

What to Do with Your Energy Windows

Caulking, weather stripping, and window frame replacement are the typical and less expensive solutions to such problems mentioned above. Caulking is the process of applying airtight compounds called “caulks” to holes and cracks to disallow the flow of air through it. Caulks are most of the time made of silicone or latex that are airtight compounds. The essential thing to keep in mind in applying caulks is to first completely get rid of any paint residue or old caulk on your window with the use of a stiff brush, special solvent, or a putty knife. After completing this, then put the brand new caulk on the holes and crack. The most recommended time to do so is when temperature outside is above 7.2 degrees Celsius or 45 degrees Fahrenheit. Low humidity prevents the cracks from surging with moisture whilst warm temperature allows the caulk to properly form and stick to the window surface it is applied to. That is why the outdoor temperature is very important.

Also, slim pieces of rubber, vinyl, metal, foam, or felt are called weather stripping. These seal the joint where the movable and rigid areas of the window meet. Weather stripping must be flanked by the sash, which grasps the glass of the window, and the window frame. Make sure though that the weather stripping does not get in the way of the window operation. Changing window frames may also be done to help. Different kinds of window frames are casement, single-hung, fixed-pane, hung, hopper, awning, double hung, and horizontal sliding.

The window pane is also a factor for energy efficiency. That is why choosing the right window pane material is also to be of prime consideration. Usually, glass window panes are used. That is why there are what we call the Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, reflective glass, heat-absorbing glass, storm windows, and plastic glazing materials.

One effective way of energy saving with glass window panes is the layering of glass materials since this allows air spaces that also prevents heat flow and allows insulation. However, this method can become a bit less cost efficient.

How to Find and Buy Cheap Windows for Your House

Brian — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 23:52:02 +0000

A very common process these days is what we call window replacement. As with everything else, windows do have their limits, and they eventually deteriorate and degrade as time passes. How fast? It depends, of course, on the window’s material and maintenance. Since weathering and use are natural events, we can not avoid them, and our windows can not, too! That is why they also age, and there comes a time when we will really need to replace our windows.

Cheap but Worth It?

Well, sometimes, if we are on a really tight budget, we do not have an actual choice but to go for cheap windows. Cheap windows do not necessarily mean used windows, but most of the time, those that are cheap are those that have been used. However, there are still good window buys that are very cheap yet also with good quality. For example, pvc and aluminum windows are much cheaper than wooden windows, right? The price of the window actually depends on its size, design, shape, and most importantly, its material and glazing. Sounds like high quality equals high price? Well, not really. There are still many quality windows that come with the right prices.

As I have reiterated, quality is very important! Be sure to not get windows that are too wrecked (in the case of buying a used window). First and foremost, that will be a real waste of your money, and it will not look great at your home at all. If you are going to buy a used window, know which can still be fixed and which are quite hopeless. You just have to pay attention to the integral parts of the window like the frame. This applies to buying a new window, too. Come to think of it, the window pane is comparatively easier to change than to have to change the whole window frame. The frame is important since it determines the size and shape of the window. That is one of the reasons why aluminum windows may be the best buy. Not only are aluminum windows sturdy, they are also cheap.

Where are They Available?

The best and probably the most accessible source for absolutely anything is the internet. Just Google the keywords “cheap windows,” and you will get dozens of websites to your delight. Finding a cheap window wouldn’t be much of a problem as there are a lot of websites offering great bargains and special promotional offers that there will surely be one for you. If you are thinking about shipping and paying, well, that is not a problem anymore today! Thanks to electronic money transfer and local and international shipping. Just watch out because sometimes there are taxes and hidden charges that may quite cost you. It is very, very important to be careful and mindful in making purchases on line.

On the other hand though, if you are more into your search for cheap windows and if you are more willing to burn some calories by walking around and scouting, well, of course, there are many window shops in your area. Just ask around your place, maybe ask your friends or your neighbors! Who knows? Maybe they know of a good window selling place that will get you the window that you want. Again, just remember to look out for quality pieces, and be very careful with what you buy.

How to Find Used Aluminium, Vinyl and Wood Windows for Sale

Brian — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 23:51:34 +0000

Window replacement is a very famous process nowadays. As we all know, windows, of course, wither and deteriorate as time passes due to many things. Well, one is, of course, because of use, and another reason may be due to weathering, which is a very natural phenomenon therefore cannot be avoided. These are reasons why we may decide to replace our windows.

Should I Get Used Windows?

Yes, you should get used windows if you are on a very tight budget but in dire need of a new or, at least, a replacement window, and getting a used window may be the best thing to do. Just make sure to take enough care to watch the details of the used window. Prize catches are not that hard to find. Just have a good eye for a good thing or at least for something with great potential and then utilize it and maximize its capabilities. Tuning up used windows is not impossible at all. It is just a matter of diagnosing the problem and knowing what to do to about it.

Make sure to not get too dilapidated windows. For one, it will be a total waste of money unless you want to use that for a different purpose (not for windows, for resale perhaps? Or junk art?). Second, it would not really look nice, would it, especially if it really is too dilapidated and quite an eye sore.

You have to know the limits of a redo-able window and a hopeless one. I think you just have to pay attention to the integral parts of the window especially the frame since a window pane is relatively easier to replace than to replace the whole frame, right? Also, I think that the window joints are also relatively easier to replace, so the frame is really important because it gives the shape and size of the window. That is why used windows with aluminum frames may be the best buy. vinyl windows may also be better buys than wooden ones because wooden windows are easily broken and cracked. I highly doubt that there could be any used wooden window still in good condition, unless the previous user really just decided to replace windows not because of its condition but perhaps because of the need for a new design and style.

Where to Get Used Windows

If you are not in the mood for scouting and window shop hopping, well, where else can you get good buys but on the internet, of course! Just Google “used windows,” and thousands of sites will show up on the list and give you information on your potential new window. There will definitely be one fit for your needs. Shipping is not much of a problem these days anyway, and electronic money transfer is also a good solution for international purchases. Just keep your eye out for hidden charges and taxes or stuff like that. It may really hurt your pocket. Careful and smart buying really is the way to go.

However, if you have more time and if you are more dedicated in your used window buying, there are also a lot of shops around your neighborhood that have used windows for sale. The key is to know where to buy (ask around your place and maybe your neighbors or friends know) and what you really want to buy. Again, being sure is very important as with many other things.

Construction and Design of Aluminium Windows and Aluminium Clad Wood Windows

Brian — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 23:51:02 +0000

Ever thought about which window frame may be the best for your home or office? As there are a lot of different window panes and frames that you may choose from, various shapes and sizes that may become yours, one kind may actually suit you best. It all depends on where these windows will be placed and for what these windows are. For instance, paper windows are very popular in China and Japan for their dojos and traditional houses, perhaps because of the natural feel. However, in the western regions, glass windows are very widely used, especially the stained glass ones in Churches and religious places. Now, we have talked about paper and glass windows. These materials are actually the panes of the windows. Now, what serves as the structure or skeleton of the window?

Frames

There are a lot of different kinds of window frames. We have frame materials from wood to plastic. But perhaps one of the most stable and sturdiest kinds is the aluminium frame. Aluminium is a very light and malleable material, allowing it to be flexibly shaped to your choice. However, once settled and formed, aluminium becomes very hard and stable over the years. Aluminium frames maintain their shape, thus, keeping your home free from air and water drips from windows.

The only downside of aluminium windows is their capacity to conduct heat at very high rates, thus, allowing faster heat loss and condensation. To avoid this, some use coating or anodizing, preventing electro-galvanic deterioration and corrosion. Placing plastic strips in between the interior and exterior of the frame can also help as these strips will insulate and help in thermal resistance. Actually, many find aluminium windows more affordable than the other types of window frame material. It serves as a low-cost alternative to the vinyl and wood types. The thing about aluminium frames is that it really is very strong. It resists cracking, swelling, splitting, shrinking, and even rust, thus, protecting it from very strong winds and stormy weather. Another good thing about aluminium frames is that it increases window space and design flexibility. However, most window users tend to dislike aluminium windows for some reason.

Misconception

If you are worried about the color, thinking that aluminium frames are merely metallic and bland, well, you got it wrong. Actually, aluminium frames are as flexible as anything else. Do not worry about color, such frames can match any design and color scheme that you may have. Design, too, as mentioned earlier, is no issue as aluminium even allows more design capability alongside sturdiness, all that for a much affordable price and longer lasting stability!

And well, it does not stop there. One more thing about aluminium frames is its capability to reduce noise more than wood and vinyl can. Yes, it can act as a bit of a noise plug especially if you are easily annoyed by outside sounds.

Combination

Aluminium plus wood equals external appeal and interior elegance. This way, wood will not anymore experience warping and blistering due to weathering. However, this combination eliminates the cost-friendly feature of aluminium windows, and the heat conducting feature of aluminium windows is also carried over. All in all though, if you are really looking for a window that is cheap yet for long term use, perhaps aluminium frames are really the way to go.

Vinyl Windows and Windows Made of PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

Brian — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 23:50:25 +0000

So, why buy a plastic window when you can have sheer elegance from wooden windows and sturdiness at its finest with aluminum windows? However, despite that, plastic windows have started to invade and infiltrate the window business, almost replacing metal and wood products. How did this happen? Well, let us just say that such plastic windows are very energy efficient and cost way less then glass and wood. So, what is a PVC window? PVC stands for Polyvinyl Chloride and is the leading type of plastic windows as of today.

Pros and Cons of PVC Windows

PVC windows are more mainstream and are also called vinyl windows. Such windows have ultraviolet or UV light stabilizers that stops the material from deteriorating because of sunlight. As you may know, sunlight can really affect and damage PVC windows. All colors except white will definitely fade as time passes, and this is why PVC windows really need not be painted at all yet are still quite good in putting off the build up of moisture. A real downside of PVC windows though is that it may really be badly affected by extreme weather conditions. Exposure to high temperature may result in expanding and warping, while exposure to low temperatures may cause PVC windows to crack.

PVC windows can reduce the cost of window framing and maintenance because a single piece of plastic may be utilized to encompass the window frame wholly. This way, leaks of air and water may be avoided. This also allows plastic windows to be much easier to maintain. Such windows are also light and are also shatter resistant. Plus, materials used in PVC window glazing are acrylic and polycarbonate. Such materials are unaffected by plastic degradation due to ultraviolet rays, and such materials are also commonly sturdier and longer lasting.

Looking for a gentle room illumination? Well, PVC windows can provide this as such windows allow for a soft, diffused light to enter a room in order to achieve this effect.

But then again, PVC windows have some disadvantages as well. In spite of being sturdier and generally safer than glass windows, long term disadvantages may just hit the spot. Aside from the fact that PVC windows allow less flexibility and less room for creativity, one thing about PVC is that such material deteriorates in the long run – both in strength and light transmission due to ultraviolet rays, heat, and oxidation. PVC is a bit more sensitive, being synthetic and all, and may be much affected by such natural processes.

Other Plastic Windows

Aside from Polyvinyl Chloride or PVC windows, there are also different kinds of plastic windows. There is what we call the insulated vinyl frames which have empty spaces crammed with insulating materials to increase their standard in terms of thermal capacities. The use of high performance glazing is much preferred to maximize the capabilities of such window frames.

Other types of plastic windows are the Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Polystyrene (PS), High Density Polyethylene (HDPE), Polypropylene (PP), and Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET, PETE). All aforementioned are very cost friendly and effective yet also has some variations. To know more, deeper study and research may be done to be able to maximize each of the capabilities of the said plastic window types and for the consumer to be able to choose the right type that would suit his home or company.

Lowenergy Windows Gives You More Efficient Energy Savings

Brian — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 23:49:54 +0000

windows should never be underestimated. Windows can provide more than just design and style to your home or office. Not only can it provide a nice view for you to look out to, but it also permits cost efficiency as it allows you to save energy and use less electricity. How does that happen? Well, there is this technique that we call “daylighting” where windows are used to provide light or internal illumination to a place, not requiring the occupants to use electrical lights at least during the day. Such lowenergy windows provide warmth, light, and beauty to your buildings. A sense of openness can also be achieved, thus, giving a sense of peace and relaxation, too.

Benefits of Lowenergy Windows

Lowenergy windows can also cut down heating (or cooling) costs in the building. With such windows, heat loss and heat gain can be minimized, and heat control costs of a building can be cut much down with lowenergy windows. In the case of air conditioning, air leaks around windows can really waste your money and electricity! Energy passes through the frames, edges, and centers of windows. Getting rid of or at least trimming down these sources of heat flow can really perk up energy efficiency of the windows and your building. Replacing window frames, caulking, and weather stripping are the least expensive ways to do so.

Save Energy!

Caulks, usually made of latex or silicone, are the airtight compounds that fill cracks and holes. Caulking then, of course, is the process of applying such airtight compounds to cracks and holes to forbid the passage of air through it. The important thing to remember before applying a caulk to your window is to first remove completely any old caulk or paint residue around your window using a stiff brush, special solvent, or a putty knife. After doing so, just apply the new caulk to the cracks and holes of the window. The best time to do this is when outdoor temperature is above 7.2 degrees Celsius or 45 degrees Fahrenheit as low humidity is very important to this to prevent the cracks from swelling with moisture, and warm temperature is important for the caulk to properly set and stick to the surface it is applied to.

On the other hand, narrow pieces of metal, rubber, vinyl, foam, or felt are called weather stripping. These are what seal the window joint where the movable and fixed areas of a window meet. Weather stripping should be applied between the frame and the sash (this holds the glass of the window). Take enough care to avoid this from hindering window operation though.

Now, for replacing window frames. Replacing window frames can be done as well since the frame of a window can also affect heat loss and air infiltration. Different types of window frames are casement, fixed-pane, single-hung, double hung, hopper, awning, and horizontal sliding.

The glass of a window can also be a factor, and this is the reason why choosing between the window pane materials can also be very important. There are now what we call the low-emissivity (Low-E) glass, heat-absorbing glass, reflective glass, plastic glazing materials, and storm windows. Layering of such glass can also be very effective as this permits air spaces which may also prevent heat flow and allow insulation. However, such types of windows can become more expensive.

Plastic Windows Made of Materials like PVC, PET, PS and PP

Brian — Sun, 24 Feb 2008 23:49:24 +0000

Oh yes, there are a lot of materials in this world that is made of plastic – children’s dolls, kitchenware, everyday things. Now, even windows can be made of plastic. Plastic windows have made its way through the window manufacturing industry almost leveling with wood and metal products. Actually, the latest status of plastic windows is that it now replaces wood and metal, especially in the household market because of its high efficiency in energy, (relatively) low costs, and low demand or need for maintenance.

Advantages and Disadvantages

Plastic windows can minimize framing and maintenance costs as one single piece of plastic can be used to cover the whole window frame. This way, water and air leaks can be avoided, making such windows easier to take care of. Plastic windows also weigh a bit lighter as compared to glass windows, which are generally heavier. In fact, plastic windows are also resistant to shattering, making it much better than glass ones. In glazing plastic windows, polycarbonate (or acrylic) materials are used, another plus for plastic windows because such materials are resistant to plastic degradation due to ultraviolet rays, and they are also generally sturdier and they last longer. The great thing with plastic windows is their ability to illuminate with the use of soft and diffused light, thus, giving a rather gentle illumination of a room.

However, plastic windows do have some disadvantages, too. Despite the fact that they can be generally safer and more stable than glass windows, plastic windows do have some long term disadvantages. For one, all plastics eventually deteriorate in light transmission and strength because of oxidation, heat, and ultraviolet rays. Plastic, being a synthetic material, can be a bit more sensitive and affected by such natural processes inevitably. Also, since plastic windows are made in single sheets only, curves and bends may only be done in a single area. This will definitely limit the style and design of your window. Plastic windows are not very flexible, really. Plastic windows, too, may become quite unpredictable in terms of use and life span due to such reasons.

Examples of Plastic Windows

Mainstream plastic windows are also known as vinyl windows, which are made of pvc or polyvinyl chloride, which has UV or ultraviolet light stabilizers to prevent sunlight from deteriorating the material. Being exposed to too much sunlight can really affect vinyl windows, making non-white colors fade as time passes. Vinyl windows need not be painted and are very good in preventing the accumulation of moisture. The only downside of vinyl windows is that, at high temperatures, warping and expanding may not be avoided. At very low temperatures, vinyl windows may crack.

Now there are also what we call insulated vinyl frames which have hollow spaces filled with insulation to make them of higher standard than that of regular vinyl and wood frames when it comes to thermal properties. To further maximize these frames, glazings of high performance and quality are used.
There are also other types of plastic windows other than that of vinyl or PVC. There are also what we call PET or Polyethylene Terephthalate (PET, PETE), Low Density Polyethylene (LDPE), Polystyrene (PS), Polypropylene (PP), and High Density Polyethylene (HDPE). All are quite effective and cost friendly yet has some differences that may require more study and attention in order for it to be properly used and maximized.

sethson.com » Windows

Advantages and Disadvantages of Wooden Windows Compared With Aluminium and Vinyl Windows

Disadvantages of Wooden Windows

Advantages of Wooden Windows

Taking Care of Your Wooden Windows

Related Posts

Advantages of Flat and Bubble Skylight Windows for Your House

Daylighting Benefits

Types of Skylight Windows

Why Buy Skylight Windows?

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Energy Windows through Caulking, Weather Striping and Window Frame Replacement

Efficiency of Energy Windows

What to Do with Your Energy Windows

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How to Find and Buy Cheap Windows for Your House

Cheap but Worth It?

Where are They Available?

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How to Find Used Aluminium, Vinyl and Wood Windows for Sale

Should I Get Used Windows?

Where to Get Used Windows

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Construction and Design of Aluminium Windows and Aluminium Clad Wood Windows

Frames

Misconception

Combination

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Vinyl Windows and Windows Made of PVC (Polyvinyl Chloride)

Pros and Cons of PVC Windows

Other Plastic Windows

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Lowenergy Windows Gives You More Efficient Energy Savings

Benefits of Lowenergy Windows

Save Energy!

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Plastic Windows Made of Materials like PVC, PET, PS and PP

Advantages and Disadvantages

Examples of Plastic Windows

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