Window Types

Window frames are available in a variety of materials including aluminum, wood, vinyl, and fiberglass. Frames may be primarily composed of one material, or they may be a combination of different materials such as wood and vinyl and each frame material has its advantages and disadvantages.

Aluminum

Aluminum is ideal for customized window design, however, aluminum frames cause conductive heat loss (i.e., they have low R-values) and condensation.

Fiberglass

Fiberglass has the highest R-values of all frames and is excellent for insulating and will not warp, shrink, swell, rot, or corrode. Fiberglass frames can be made in a variety of colors and can hold large expanses of glass. Some fiberglass frames are hollow and others are filled with fiberglass insulation.

Vinyl

Vinyl windows are made primarily from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which offers many advantages, like a large selection of styles and shapes, moderate to high R-values, easily customized, competitively priced, require low maintenance, and mold easily into almost any shape.

Wood

The benefits of wood is it produces higher R-values, is unaffected by temperature extremes, and is less prone to condensation, but they do require some maintenance – like periodic painting. A note of caution: if wood frames are not properly protected from moisture, they can warp, crack, and stick.

The Glass Guru estimators and installers are window experts and can help guide you to make the best decision for windows that will fit your needs and budget. We offer several brands with multiple styles and options to choose from to get just the right look and feel for your home. No one knows windows like The Glass Guru.