When upgrading your windows, consider choosing materials that provide durability and energy efficiency in Florida’s challenging climate. These options include vinyl, aluminum, and wood.
Vinyl offers a sleek aesthetic and low maintenance, while aluminum resists corrosion. It’s also a good choice for coastal homes, as it doesn’t expand or contract with humidity. But it has poor insulation, unless thermal breaks are added.
Vinyl
The window material that you choose to install at your home plays a critical role in the longevity and energy efficiency of the windows. It must be able to withstand the subtropical Florida climate conditions and avoid issues like condensation, rot, and mold.
Vinyl windows offer a wide array of benefits to homeowners, including affordability, low maintenance requirements, and superior durability. They are impervious to moisture and salt, and resist swelling, fading, and corrosion. They also provide excellent insulating properties, helping to keep homes cool in the summer and lower electricity bills.
Many homeowners also opt for vinyl impact windows, which provide additional protection against storms and high winds. These windows feature a thick frame that is resistant to condensation, and can be customized with a variety of textures and colors to match a range of architectural styles, including quaint bungalows and Victorian homes. They can also be made with argon and krypton glass to improve energy efficiency and reduce UV exposure.
Aluminum
Aluminum windows are a resilient choice for Florida’s harsh climate. They offer strength and a sleek aesthetic that complements modern designs. They are also a great option for homeowners who want to comply with the state’s hurricane-resistant building codes. They are also available in thermally broken variants to improve energy efficiency and lower utility bills.
Unlike aluminum frames, vinyl doesn’t warp due to extreme temperature changes. It is also resistant to rot and condensation, making it a better choice for homes in humid regions. It is also a low-maintenance material that only requires occasional cleaning.
Impact-rated windows are a vital investment for homeowners in Florida. The powerful winds of a hurricane can cause severe damage to homes if the windows are not properly protected. Impact-rated windows are designed to break and prevent the force of the wind from pressurizing your home’s interior. In addition, they will reduce noise pollution from nearby roads or neighbors. They also provide an excellent barrier against harmful UV rays.
Wood
When homeowners choose new windows for their homes, it’s important to consider energy efficiency, hurricane protection and security. The type of window frame you choose can make a big difference in these areas. Each type of frame-vinyl, aluminum or wood-has unique advantages.
Vinyl offers a cost-effective solution that requires little maintenance. It also provides excellent insulating properties, keeping homes cool in Florida’s hot climate and reducing the need for air conditioning.
Aluminum windows are resistant to corrosion caused by salt exposure and offer a sleek, modern look that complements many home designs. They also provide exceptional durability and hurricane protection, making them an ideal choice for homes in storm-prone areas.
Fiberglass
Fiberglass is a strong, lightweight material that is used in a variety of applications, including window frames. It is resistant to a wide range of environmental temperatures, and can withstand a great deal of wear and tear. It can also be painted in a variety of colors to suit any aesthetic preference.
Unlike vinyl, fiberglass windows are highly energy-efficient. They are designed to minimize heat loss and infiltration, which will save you money on your energy bills. Additionally, they are able to withstand harsh weather conditions, including high winds and rainstorms.
Many leading manufacturers produce fiberglass windows, including Marvin and Pella. Those made from Ultrex fiberglass are extremely durable and energy-efficient. They also feature a slim profile that maximizes glass area for better views. Additionally, these windows are available in a number of styles, such as the classic double-hung, modern casement, outdoorsy awning, and refined bay and bow. Moreover, they are engineered to be easy to install.