Each frame material has its advantages and disadvantages. Available in a wide range of styles and shapes, vinyl frames have moderate to high R-values, are easily customized, are competitively priced, and require very low maintenance. While vinyl frames do not possess the inherent strength of metal or wood, larger-sized windows are often strengthened with aluminum or steel reinforcing bars. Click here for more vinyl replacement window information. Wood frames have higher R-values, are not affected by temperature extremes, and do not generally promote condensation.
Wood frames do require considerable maintenance in the form of periodic painting or staining.
If not properly protected, wood frames can swell, which leads to rot, warping, and sticking. Fiberglass frames are relatively new and are not yet widely available. With some of the highest R-values, fiberglass frames are excellent for insulating and will not warp, shrink, swell, rot, or corrode. Unprotected fiberglass does not hold up to the weather and therefore is always painted. Aluminum frames are ideal for strength and customized window design.