If you’re in the market for replacement windows in Kansas City, you no doubt have a lot of questions. One of those is probably, “Which kind of window frame is best – wood, aluminum, vinyl, composite, or fiberglass?” At All-Weather Window, Doors & Siding, we’re used to getting these kinds of questions. There is no simple answer because it changes for each homeowner. We dove a little deeper into the differences between our Andersen replacement window frames and summarized it below. Hopefully, this will help you make the right decision for your home and your budget.

6 Types of Window Frames Compare

1. Solid Wood: It’s been at the core of Andersen products for over 100 years. Wood provides strength and rigidity in both frames and sashes. Wood is mostly chosen for its beauty because it can be stained to match existing interior woodwork. Many homeowners prefer the natural look of wood and its overall thermal performance is hard to beat.

Pros & Cons – Great insulator against heat and cold, but it’s costly, requires maintenance, and is subject to swelling and contracting.

2. Aluminum: Aluminum provides a virtually maintenance-free exterior that resists the elements.It is strong, affordable, and low-maintenance, but conducts heat and cold, so it isn’t the most energy-efficient frame. It is also not the most aesthetically pleasing material for frames.

Pros & Cons – Strong, affordable, low-maintenance, but not as energy efficient or attractive as others.

3. Vinyl: Vinyl on its own provides an excellent low-maintenance exterior for any window and is available in a wide variety of colors. Where Andersen has innovated with vinyl is by using it as a protective cladding for its wood core windows. See below.

Pros & Cons – Affordable and low-maintenance, but color may fade over time.

4. Clad: The most expensive type, with wood frames inside and aluminum or vinyl shell on the outside; wood frame helps minimize the transfer of heat and cold, while the exterior shell makes the window low-maintenance.

Pros & Cons – Expensive, but very low maintenance and energy efficient.

5. Fiberglass – Fiberglass is a tough, weather-resistant material. They are maintenance free and can be combined with beautiful wood interior frames.

Pros & Cons – durable, maintenance free, lightweight, energy efficient.

6. Composites: Composites are new materials created to combine the best attributes of several materials. Composite windows are stronger and more durable than wood and vinyl, and can be painted to match a home’s decor.The price falls between wood and vinyl. Andersen’s Fibrex® composite window frames are two times as strong as vinyl, perform better when exposed to extreme temperatures and deliver exteriors that won’t fade, flake, blister or peel.

Pros & Cons – moderate price, extremely strong and durable, low maintenance, energy efficient, can be painted

We know it’s a lot of information, so start by prioritizing the benefits that you value the most. This will help you narrow down the field and make a final decision easier. If you have any questions or want to talk to an expert about replacement windows, give us a call at (913) 648-9589 or contact us online.

At All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we know you want quality windows and you don’t want to pay more than you should. Since most homeowners only purchase replacement windows once or twice in a lifetime, it’s hard to know what they should cost. That’s why we put together these tips on buying the best replacement windows. If someone else tries to sell you something you don’t need, you’ll be armed with the information you need to make a smart decision.

There are basically three areas where you can spend erroneously thinking you need that feature or option, when in reality, it won’t provide much benefit. Take them all into consideration when researching and getting quotes and you’ll know how to avoid paying more for something you don’t really need.

1. Price Does Not Equal Performance

You may be inclined to think that a more expensive window is obviously a better window. That is not always the case. In an independent study of casement windows, the least expensive window scored highest. It all depends on the materials and the statistics. When comparing, look at energy ratings, materials (vinyl, wood, aluminum, composite), and warranties. All will affect your satisfaction level after the purchase. Decide which features are important to you and whether they are worth the extra cost difference.

2. Don’t Pay for More Energy Savings Than You Need

Window manufacturers make windows that can withstand some pretty extreme temperatures. However, if you live in the Kansas City area, do you really need windows that are rated for a much colder climate? Avoid overkill and get the windows that will deliver enough energy efficiency, but not way too much. The only place you’ll notice the difference is in your wallet. The NFRC label helps you compare between energy-efficient windows by providing you with energy performance ratings in multiple categories. While the ENERGY STAR label tells you that a product is energy-efficient, the NFRC helps you compare between energy-efficient products by giving you independent ratings in several energy performance categories.

3. Watch Out for Options & Upgrades

It’s easy to overspend on options. Upgrades can easily add 50% or more to the base cost of a window. If you add features, make sure to focus on the features that add value. Low-E coatings improve efficiency, but triple glazing probably isn’t necessary unless you live in an extremely cold climate. Double-hung window sashes (tilt in make cleaning easier), full screens, finer meshed screens, and hardware upgrades will quickly add up, so be careful.  

Other Ways to Save on Replacement Windows

Keep More Money in Your Pocket with Pocket Replacement Windows

If your existing frames and sills are in good shape, you may be a good candidate for pocket replacement windows. Also known as partial replacement windows, these windows are slightly smaller and fit into the existing frames. You save money on materials and labor. Otherwise, you’ll need full-replacement windows.

Finding an Installer

At All-Weather Window, Doors and Siding, we choose to offer Andersen replacement windows to our Kansas City customers. The Andersen window brand has demonstrated integrity and innovation for over 100 years and is the most recognized and most used brand in the window industry. Andersen replacement windows are simply the best replacement windows in Kansas City that we have found.

Even the best windows won’t deliver the look or comfort you expect if they’re installed improperly. Many major window manufacturers train and certify installers for their specific products. At All-Weather, we are proud to be an Andersen Window Circle of Excellence dealer. You can have extra confidence that when we install your windows, we do it exactly the way the manufacturer recommends so the window provides superior performance for years to come. Additionally, using the same contractor for purchase and installation can minimize the chances of problems arising later.

If you’re looking into replacement windows, give us a call at (913) 262-4380 or contact us online and we’ll be happy to help you make this important decision with confidence.