Wood Clad Windows
When building a new home or replacing existing windows in a home, there are many decisions that need to be made. One of the first questions will be what type of frame material you want for the windows. You should start by deciding whether you want clad or non-clad windows. Even as different window materials have become available, wood remains the most popular for most homeowners. However, wood is not always the most practical option as they can require a lot of upkeep. Wood clad windows are becoming increasingly popular as a way to get the look of wood and the durability of other materials. This type of window is also a great option because they can be customized to fit any style of home.
What Are Wood Clad Windows?
Wood clad windows have an interior-facing, traditional wood frame with a weather resistant exterior frame. They offer a low-maintenance exterior with an elegant wooden interior. This allows you to customize the inside by painting or staining it to get your desired finish. You also get all the insulating benefits of wood inside. The cladding on the exterior of the window improves the durability and longevity of the window. Still, the interior retains the highly-desirable look of a real wood window.
The durability of wood clad windows is essential in a place like Chicago, with varying harsh weather conditions. Cladding windows helps preserve the wood on the inside and improve its weather resistance. Inside the building, the wood is exposed and visible, but outside, it is safe from the elements.
Types of Cladding
Typically the cladding on a wood clad window is done with either vinyl or aluminum, but fiberglass is another option.
Aluminum cladding
Aluminum clad windows are the strongest of the clad windows. Aluminum is extremely durable, dent-resistant, and affordable. However, aluminum transfers heat more easily than vinyl, which can make them less energy efficient. Aluminum clad windows should instead have a thermal barrier to stop them from conducting heat, like the ones offered from Quaker windows. A great aspect of aluminum cladded windows is that they are more eco-friendly. In addition, aluminum cladding works well for windows in special shapes like circles or hexagons.
Vinyl cladding
Vinyl clad windows are arguably the most popular type of clad windows available today. Vinyl requires little maintenance, offers high energy efficiency, and is affordable. The quality of vinyl clad windows available today can vary tremendously by brand. This should be kept in mind when looking for this type of cladded window. A cheap vinyl clad window will chalk, warp, and chip over time. In some cases, cheap vinyl cladding can even damage the window itself. These will not be a good long-term investment. A high quality vinyl clad window will be able to last you for years with little maintenance.
Fiberglass cladding
Fiberglass clad windows are unique because they contract and expand at almost the same rate as regular glass. This means that both the cladding and the window itself expands and contracts together. This ensures that the window remains weather-tight and also prevents seal failure. Fiberglass is very strong, but it is difficult to use on windows of special shapes.
Customizable Wood Clad Windows
Wood clad windows have gotten many upgrades over the years as their popularity has grown. They are now available in many more styles, hardware finishes, and functions. For example, Marvin, Andersen and Quaker windows and doors offer venting windows with mesh screens that won’t obstruct your view. These windows even appear closed when looked at from the street, even when they are venting.
Many window manufacturers have expanded their interior wood options past the traditional oak. These now include pine, mahogany, Douglas fir, cherry, and alder. The exterior clad colors are also available in many options. Marvin, Andersen and Quaker windows and doors offer dozens of different tones, for example.
Finally, the options for hardware finishes have also expanded. In addition to traditional plated and bright brass finishes, there are also hand-forged finishes available. These finishes, like oil-rubbed bronze, have become very popular.
Why Choose Clad Windows?
Non-clad windows are generally standard for homeowners. Many times these are chosen because they are more affordable than all wood or part-wood windows. Plus, they are naturally weather resistant, unlike wood. However, there are advantages to wood clad windows over non-clad.
The first advantage is that real wood frames are naturally good insulators. They block unwanted heat and keep the inside of a building comfortable. Having wood on the interior of the window allows for at least some insulation that a non-clad window would not.
Not only does real wood on windows protect from unwanted heat, they provide a natural barrier for noise. For homes on a busy street or near an airport, this noise reduction may be an important consideration.
Clad windows require little to no maintenance depending on the material. The exterior of the windows will not need to be repainted or repaired due to weather conditions.
Finally, as previously mentioned, cladded windows are more energy efficient than traditional wood windows. This is even more apparent when they are paired with energy efficient glass. These windows will maintain the temperature inside your home no matter what the weather is like outside.
For more information on whether wood clad windows are right for your needs, you should contact a window expert.
Wood Clad Windows in Chicago
Solid vinyl and aluminum windows got more popular than wood for a while because they were more durable against the elements. These windows don’t warp like wood does, are easier to maintain, and withstand Chicago weather better than wood can. But if you enjoy the warm, rich look of wooden windows then these materials do not meet your needs. This is why wood clad windows might be the best option for you. You can get the warmth of wood indoors with the strength and durability of vinyl or aluminum outdoors. Plus, clad windows offer better energy savings than traditional wood windows. Normal wood windows can be drafty, but clad windows resist airflow.
Clad windows are becoming popular in Chicago because of how much design versatility they offer. Chicago homes come in a wide variety of styles from brownstones to modern condos. Marvin windows and doors, Andersen and Quaker windows come in a variety of styles to fit your home or business. American Thermal Window serves the following areas of Illinois, including all of Chicagoland.
Wood Clad Window Prices
Like any window, wood clad window prices can vary based on a number of factors. This can include the brand, features, the window size, and whether you want a full-frame window. American Thermal Window is dedicated to providing high quality options at great wood clad window prices. With a number of different manufacturers available, we are sure to have the solution that fits your desired style and budget. Some of our most popular brands include Quaker windows, Andersen and Marvin windows and doors.
American Thermal Window
Each of our window carriers has unique options to fit your needs. Our team members are ready to help you decide on and price the option that works best for your needs. With so many customizable options available, it is a must that a window professional guides you through the process. This will ensure that you make the best investment possible. Contact American Thermal Window today for more information.