When it comes to windows, I want what I call: “a lot and not.”
Whether it’s an awning window, bay window, casement window; double-hung, single-hung, new construction or replacement window I like a window with the best balance of design features, durability and cost.
From the “lot” standpoint, I want to enjoy the way my windows look, both from a distance and up close, say from the living room couch or when I walk by them in the yard. I also like clean lines, consistent color, and proportion in the frames and glass. And for design options I depend on choices like round-tops, cool grills, wood looks, rich color choices and rockin’ hardware options to stay on-trend. And then there’s performance: Energy Star, StormBreaker-style toughness, and smooth operation. Vinyl delivers in all categories.
In the “not” category, I don’t want to paint the windows nor do I want to pay a ton of cash for them. Many wood windows meet Energy Star requirements but to stay low maintenance, they’re clad with aluminum on the exterior. It works, but it costs money. On the inside they’re wood of course, but that wood needs to be painted or otherwise sealed. Again, it costs money increasing the cost of the investment.
Vinyl windows meet my “lot and not” mojo, and then some. Vinyl is extremely energy efficient—and is easier on budget. And vinyl can deliver a strikingly authentic wood look on the interior to match other wood details. Oak, Cherry, and Maple laminates can blend seamlessly with wood trim packages and can blend with the toughest critic of all: the discerning eye.
That’s a lot.
