|
|
|
A Guide to Window Hardware
Types of Window Frame Hardware and What to
Consider When Buying Windows
By Mark J. Donovan
|
|
When looking for new windows one of the most important factors to consider
is the window U-value. The window U-value, or U-factor, is a measure of a
window’s heat loss. The lower a window’s U-value the greater it’s
resistance to heat loss, and the greater a window’s resistance to heat
loss the lower your monthly home energy bills. Besides the use of
multi-pane, Argon gas filled, Low-E window glazing, another important
factor in achieving a low window U-factor is the window hardware, or
window frame itself.
|
Windows are constructed out of many types of window hardware. Some are
better than others, and some are better for different climates and regions
of the country. So when buying new windows, besides considering your
home’s style and construction budget, choose windows with the window
hardware that is the most appropriate for your local climate and that have
low U-values.
Types of Window Hardware
Wood Hardware
Wood hardware has been the most commonly used material for window
construction over the eons. Wood is easy to work with and can be shaped
and cut into all types of intricate carvings and designs. It’s also a
fairly good insulator and is aesthetically pleasing both on the inside and
outside of the home. This said, wood hardware needs constant maintenance.
For example, wood framed windows need to be painted every few years. If
not maintained, the window frames will check and rot out in short order.
|
|
Vinyl Hardware
Vinyl hardware windows have become very popular with today’s home builders
and homeowners. Vinyl is extremely durable and low maintenance. They’re
also relatively inexpensive. Vinyl hardware windows come in a variety of
colors and the paint is mixed into the vinyl material. Thus there is never
a concern for scratches or chips in the vinyl frame. Vinyl also has a
fairly high insulation factor, thus enabling low U-value windows. |
The only downsides with vinyl windows are that they come in only a limited
variety of colors and can look rather cheap if low quality ones are
installed on the home. There are some vinyl hardware window types that are
made to look like natural wood, however they honestly don’t do a great job
of imitating wood.
Steel Hardware
Steel hardware windows are not used very often in new home construction
today, with maybe the exception of basement windows and storm windows.
Steel hardware windows are mostly a relic of older homes. One of the
reasons steel hardware windows fell out of fashion is that they need to be
regularly painted and can rust over time. Steel window hardware is also a
poor insulating material. Heat can easily transfer from the inside to the
outside of the window via the steel frame.
Aluminum Hardware
Aluminum hardware windows are similar to steel hardware windows in
terms of limited energy efficiency and strong durability. Aluminum
hardware windows, however, do not require the same level of care and
maintenance as steel windows. Aluminum hardware coloring is baked on
to the window frame during its construction, thus it does not require
painting. Due to its poor energy efficiency aluminum hardware windows
are not used as often in today’s new home construction. |
Photo by Mark Donovan |
Fiberglass Hardware
Fiberglass hardware windows are both highly durable and energy efficient.
Consequently fiberglass hardware is often found in some of the lowest
U-value windows. Maintenance is also minimal with fiberglass hardware, as
it won’t rust or decay like steel or wood. The only downside with
fiberglass hardware windows is that they are very expensive compared to
other window hardware solutions.
So when out shopping for new windows consider home style, climate, window
style, U-value, and the right window hardware. By weighing all of these
factors equally, you’ll be sure to purchase windows that best meet your
home’s aesthetic and functional needs.
For more information on
Installing a New Window, see the
Installing a New Window Ebook from
HomeAdditionPlus.com. The Installing a New Window Ebook provides
easy to understand, step-by-step instructions, on how to remove an old window
and install a new one. Pictures are included for every key step in the process.
Related Skylight Articles
Get Free Window Price Quotes,
No Obligation!
Fill out our 3-5 minute quick and easy form, and receive a free price quote
on windows from one of our prescreened and licensed window contractors. This
process is free and there is no obligation to continue once you receive your
window replacement price estimate.
|
|
|
