Aluminum replacement windows offers many benefits to homeowners; strength, price and versatility being the main advantages. Here are some of the benefits to consider so you can decide if these window frames are a good choice for your home.
Aluminum Windows Prices
As already mentioned, aluminum replacement windows are generally less expensive than wood or even vinyl window frames.
Entry Level Prices: $175 – $300
Entry level pricing will entail lower end glass packages; no uv coating, foam insulation or fills. Often, there will be a limited number of color options and features. Lower end aluminum storm windows prices are fixed frame or non-movable – as opposed to casement, awning or double hung windows.
Standard Aluminum Window Prices: $300 – $450
Standard aluminum window prices will have a better glass package, such as enegy efficient options, fills and/or foam insulation. They may offer more color options and features. Homeowners can also Expect more options in the type of windows available to them, including casement, awning or double hung windows.
High End Costs: $450 – $600
High end products should come with a lifetime warranty (that actually warrants the product without too many exclusions) from the window manufacturer and have a large array of color options and. The glass package should be hig hend as well; low-e glass, argon/krypton fills, foam insulation, super spacers, etc. Expect many window types – casements, bay, bow, double hung, etc.
Aluminum Window Price For Installation
Aluminum window price for installation should run $100 to $400 per window for replacements or new construction. $100 for contractor or handyman inserts. Pricing becomes much more expensive if the window opening must be increased or reduce as this involves carpentry, framing and finish work. Also, higher end manufacturer certified installers will often charge top dollar for replacement window installation.
Advantages Of Aluminum Replacement Windows
Overall Strength
Aluminum replacement windows are more than 40 times stronger than wood windows, and are even triple the strength of vinyl. This is a helpful feature in areas that are prone to intense wind speeds or severe weather. It also makes aluminum a great choice for larger sized windows because the strength of the frame can handle large expanses of glass.
Durability
Aluminum replacement windows will not split, crack, shrink or swell like other types of windows can. They are also resistant to rust and are not prone to water or insect damage. In addition, they will last you for years and years, making them not only a less expensive up-front purchase than other window types, but a good long term investment.
Low Maintenance
There is far less maintenance involved if you own aluminum as compared to wood windows. No need for painting, staining or sealing. No worries about insect or water damage. Just an occasional cleaning off with a hose should suffice. You’ll also have to periodically check the weather-stripping and other features to maintain energy efficiency, but that’s about it.
Aesthetics
This window frame has traditionally gotten a bad rap for being a bit of an eyesore with their plain and bland look. However, newer ones can be manufactured in almost any color and can easily blend in well with the exterior décor of your home. Another benefit to aluminum is that these windows allow you to install a large or interestingly shaped window that can become a focal point of your entire home. Since the frame can withstand just about any size or shaped window, the design possibilities are endless.
Noise
Aluminum replacement windows are better at reducing the amount of noise that travels through the windows than vinyl or wood windows are. Depending on where you live, the noise abatement features of aluminum may factor into your decision of window type.
Great Options
There are numerous options available to you as a homeowner if you select aluminum replacement windows. As mentioned, you have the ability to design large or interesting shaped windows, due to the strength of these windows. Many homeowners opt for arched windows in the front of their home and this frame material is perfect for this. If you really don’t like the look of aluminum inside your home, you can select an aluminum clad wood window instead. This type of window is aluminum on the exterior, offering all of the benefits without the metallic look on the inside of your home. The interior, however, is trimmed in wood to provide the look of wood inside your home. These windows are more expensive than solid aluminum windows, but provide the best of both worlds.
Main Drawdack Of Aluminum Replacement Windows
One drawback to aluminum is that it is known to be an excellent conductor of heat and cold. This can make the windows less energy efficient than other types. However, there are thermal treatments that can be added to the windows to make the windows more efficient. If energy efficiency is your primary concern when choosing windows, then aluminum windows may not be the window for you. But if you are also willing to consider other factors in addition to energy efficiency, then aluminum replacement windows are definitely worth a second look!
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