Types of Windows, Window Frames, and Doors

There is such a large selection of windows, window frames, and doors that it is hard to choose the right ones for your needs. First, let's talk about windows. No matter what type of window you want, it is going to be either single, double, or tripled paned.

Window Frames It is usually recommended that you install double paned windows if you are doing any new construction or window replacement project. These consist of two panes of glass that have air trapped in between them. The air space is generally three-quarters of an inch thick and this air acts as an insulator. It will increase the window's ability to resist the penetration of heat. Another window option is to choose the type of glass or glass treatments for your windows. Depending on what type you choose, some will have a wonderful effect on energy savings.

You will want to choose a style of window that will affect the energy conservation capacity of your home. The casement window seems to be the most energy efficient than the others. These are closely followed by the awning and sliding windows. Double hung windows have a higher leakage rate. The lease efficient window is the jalousie.

Selecting an exterior door for your home is relatively easy. You only have either a wooden door or an insulated metal door to choose from. But which one is the better energy saver? You can find the answer to that by looking at the R-values of the two types of doors. Wood doors generally have a R-value of around 2.5. On the other hand, insulated metal doors usually have a R-value between six and ten. This makes the metal door more energy efficient than the wood door. Another advantage to the metal door is that they are delivered to you with a complete seal on all sides. If you caulk your door frame before you install your door, then you will help to prevent air infiltration.

Types of Windows There are many different types of window frames. The aluminum or metal frames are very strong, light, and virtually maintenance free, but they conduct heat quickly. This makes them a very poor insulating material. You can counteract this by adding a thermal break to the frame. Composite frames are made up of wood composites. These are very stable and have the same structural and thermal properties as conventional wood. They also are more resistant to moisture and decay.

Fiberglass frames are very stable and they have air cavities that are similar to vinyl. If you fill these cavities with insulation, they offer a superior thermal performance compared to other types of frames. Vinyl frames are made up of PVC with UV stabilizers. These stabilizers help keep sunlight from breaking down the vinyl. They are practically maintenance free since they don't require painting and are very resistant to moisture. Unfortunately, high temperatures may cause them to expand and warp. If the temperatures are really low, they tend to crack. If you have colored vinyl frames, they tend to fade overtime due to sun exposure.

Lastly, wood frames insulate well; however, they will expand and contract depending on the weather conditions. Also, they can be very heavy and thick compared to other frames. These also tend to need the most maintenance of all frame types.