Custom Windows: What’s the Benefit?
When the time comes to replace your old windows, it typically isn’t a project that gets you jumping out of bed in excitement. With all of the different material options, styles, and colors available, the process can take up more time than expected. Wouldn’t you want it to be a one and done project? Then custom windows should be your go-to when on the hunt. Here’s why.
Window Material Options
Before we dive into the benefits of custom windows, it’s important to understand the different material options to choose from when designing the custom window of your dreams. It’s important to balance the pros and cons so you can find the right material to fit your needs. We are going to break down the three most common, which are wood, aluminum, and vinyl.
Wood
In years past, most homeowners tend to have a high demand for wood windows for one common reason – they look pretty. Wood windows give off an authentic look that increases curb appeal. However, there are long-term effects you need to know that will make wood windows a little less appealing.
For starters, wood absorbs moisture so it’ll swell, rot and warp if not taken care of. This can pose a major problem because the Midwest has humid summers and faces a lot of rain year round. This can also cause mold problems in your windows which is bad for your health. Absorbing moisture can also lead to warping or rotting wood, that will need to be replaced sooner than you’d like.
Not only are you at risk for rotting wood from moisture, it also loses it’s beautiful luster over time. The wood will need to be painted and stained every 3-5 years. Wood windows are a lingering hassle, not to mention expensive. Speaking of price, wood windows can run up three times more expensive than aluminum or vinyl.
Aluminum
Aluminum windows are much more durable and affordable than wood windows. They won’t warp, rot or expand when facing moisture, so you don’t have to worry about mold.
However, that doesn’t mean aluminum windows are moisture-proof. The bolts and screws that hold your window together are exposed, so over time, they will begin to rust. That takes away from the overall look of your windows.
Cheaper? More durable? All I got to worry about is a little rust? Aluminum windows are looking like the best option, right?
Well, not exactly. There are other flaws that need to be taken into consideration before acting on this big investment for you and your family.
Denting and dinging are common problems with aluminum windows. With the hail and heavy wind we experience here in the Midwest, that can take a toll on your aluminum windows.
Most importantly, aluminum windows are the least energy efficient windows out of the three. In the heat of the summer, the aluminum can get extremely hot. This heat can travel throughout the entire house, forcing you to crank up the A/C, burning an unnecessary hole in your wallet.
In the end, aluminum doesn’t have the same beauty as wood windows, you won’t be boosting your curb appeal, and the increase in your bills make aluminum not the most affordable option after all.
Vinyl
If you want the low-maintenance of aluminum, the beauty of wood and the most energy efficient window available, vinyl is the best option. These windows were made specifically to face Midwest weather.
All three material options will perfectly fit your home since they are custom made, however, the frames of vinyl windows are foam insulated which further prevents heated and cooled air from escaping your home. The house becomes air tight making it more comfortable and saving you money on your energy bills.
Much like aluminum, vinyl windows don’t absorb moisture. Unlike aluminum, however, there’s nothing that can rust on vinyl windows. With the exception of an occasional cleaning, your vinyl windows pretty much take care of themselves.
Still in love with the look of the wood window? Vinyl windows can match that same look with wood grain finishes, you can barely spot a difference!
Save Money in the Long Run
Custom windows are an investment. They are designed to fit the current opening in your home perfectly, providing much lower risk for air or water leakage. This increases energy efficiency while reducing energy bills. Since custom vinyl windows are built to last on average 20-40 years, the money you would be saving every month should make for an easy decision when the time comes to upgrade.
Increase the Value of Your Home
When the time comes to sell your home, custom windows have a higher value than your standard hardware store windows. They don’t have nearly the same quality of appearance and feel that custom windows provide. Reason being that standard hardware windows are mass produced and aren’t treated at the level of care you and your home deserve.
Custom windows are designed specially to fit your home and are built to last. So once installed, you can ensure your home is energy efficient and you won’t have to worry about your windows for years to come. With the exception of occasional cleaning, of course!
Match Your Style
A great way to improve your curb appeal is to customize your windows to what fit your style. Luckily, here at Feldco, you can make that happen without spending a fortune. There are many different style options to choose from, we’re positive you will find exactly what your looking for.
Pick and choose what suits you:
- Double hung windows: open from the top and bottom. Easy to clean and control air circulation
- Casement windows: open away from your home using a hand crank giving you the ability to control how open you’d like your window
- Sliding windows: easy to open and perfect for hard to reach areas
- Awning windows: open from the bottom away from your home creating an awning effect. This allows you to open your windows no matter the weather outside
- Hopper windows: open from the top into your home. Perfect for a basement or areas close to the ground
- Picture windows: inoperable windows that give you the best sight lines
- Bay windows: 3-lite window that’s composed of a picture window flanked by casement or double hung windows on each side. It creates a window seat as well
- Bow windows: a 3-5 lite window that’s made up of any combination of picture, casement or double hung windows. Like a bay window, it creates a window seat inside
- Architectural windows: uniquely shaped picture windows. They come in many styles including circle, semi-circle, square, horizontal rectangle and octagon
- Garden windows: a box of windows that extrudes from the facade of your home. Made for growing plants and herbs year round
When the time comes to replace your windows, Feldco can provide you with durable, energy efficient custom windows with many different styles and colors to choose from. Start your window replacement today with a free quote and see why Feldco has been trusted by over 350,000 homeowners.
