|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
|
There are three main types of material used to manufacture window frames. These are aluminium, PVC-u and wood. These are also vinyl-coated and fibreglass frames, but for simplicity at this stage we shall stick to the three main types. The three materials each have their strengths and weaknesses and in this article we shall look at the several properties to see how each type shapes up. The properties we look at are heat insulation, sound insulation, security, appearance, maintenance and least but definitely not least, cost. We shall also briefly talk about the different styles of windows commonly available today.
Heat insulation is perhaps the most common reason for getting double-glazing. However, if the frame is not right the insulation provided by double-glazing is lost. The worst conductors of heat and therefore the best insulators are wood and PVC-u. Aluminium is a relatively good conductor of heat and so is not the best material if this is of primary concern.
The protection against sound is another great attribute of double-glazing and their isn't really a clear winner. The relative sound insulation properties are therefore of lesser concern that those of say heat.
Security is always a concern and here we have a clear winner. Aluminium is extremely strong and is the material of choice where security is of major concern. This explains why aluminium is commonly seen on commercial premises. Wood and PVC-u have their weak spots. PVC-u expands during hot temperatures and the expansion gaps required can become weak points for intruders.
Another area that has a clear leader is appearance. Wooden frames are easily the most attractive frames. The timeless appeal of wood suits both modern and period properties. In particular, for period properties it is almost mandatory to have traditional looking frames and in particular sash windows. The appearance of the properties can be undermined with PVC-u frames or cheap looking fake wood finishes.
Although wooden frames are the most pleasing on the eye they are also the hardest work. Older frames require a significant amount of attention to prolong their life. The newer wooden frames are treated before being shipped to retailers but they still require the attention. Regular coats of protective paints are needed every four or five years. PVC-u and aluminium frame require very little maintenance and can be cleaned with just an occasional wipe with a damp cloth.
Finally, we look at the cost of the different types of frames. Generally speaking, the cheapest are PVC-u frames, followed by aluminium and finally wood are the most expensive. The economic benefits of PVC-u frames combined with their excellent insulation properties go a long way to explaining their popularity.
There are many different styles of window that can be manufactured from the three materials. Casement windows, tilt and turn windows and sash windows are all made from the three materials.
Garry John has contributed to many articles to home improvement sites including double glazing
Purchasing an air purifier can be confusing, and you do... Read More
Asphalt paving or Hot Mix Asphalt is typically what one... Read More
Once a month there's an electric bill coming in the... Read More
When you begin decorating your home there are some important... Read More
The first time my husband saw me scrubbing the black... Read More
Interior remodeling can have an amazing impact on the look... Read More
Hardwood is still the homeowner's favorite choice of flooring and... Read More
Did you know that over 50% of women now run... Read More
What is behind the popularity of roller blinds. Is it... Read More
Hiring a professional electrician can be very expensive and is... Read More
What is Concrete Cutting?Concrete cutting is a process of controlled... Read More
If You Think Mold and Mildew Hibernate During The Winter,... Read More
Are you overloaded? Have you become a part of the... Read More
"I keep the subject of my inquiry constantly before me,... Read More
Ok, you are ready to build a log home. If... Read More
Double glazing reduces heat loss through your windows. You can... Read More
Not everyone is aware of how to deal with contractors.... Read More
A sauna has been used throughout history in every part... Read More
Georgian Conservatories Georgian architecture was the style of the 18th... Read More
You are doing a remodel and know that you want... Read More
A reciprocating saw is simply one of the handiest tools... Read More
You're all comfortable in your favorite lounge chair, reading your... Read More
When you are choosing a color scheme for any room... Read More
My Grandmother used to say to me "Nothing cheap is... Read More
In this fast moving world of the 21st century, we... Read More
This article is intended for the DIY (Do It Yourself)... Read More
Above ground pools are beloved by many and have gained... Read More
It seems like about three million of you have asked... Read More
Would you like to add a personal touch to your... Read More
Over the years, many studies have been done in countries... Read More
Use of steel as a construction material has seen phenomenal... Read More
Is your home dcor lacking that extra something that spells... Read More
A house or any particular room can be carefully planned,... Read More
Pesticides are a ubiquitous toxin in our environment. We spray... Read More
Stress is all around us, from the office to the... Read More
The purpose of a home ventilation system is to maintain... Read More
Selection of bedstead is also an important thing as selection... Read More
There are at least two dozen brand names marketing dehumidifiers.... Read More
Are you frustrated with the high prices you've been quoted... Read More
What will your next home improvement project be? Will it... Read More
1) Red Oak is not the only choiceIf you want... Read More
The workshop is a great place for reusing items formally... Read More
The installation of a toilet is a relatively easy job... Read More
The quest for more living space these days means making... Read More
It's refreshing to note that gone are the days that... Read More
Preparing a deck design for your backyard is all the... Read More
Look no further for long lasting perfumes. House of Rose... Read More
Even if you've never been involved in the sale of... Read More
You've finally found the home of your dreams, 3 bedrooms,... Read More
A Closer Examination of the Dust MiteThe dust mite's mouth... Read More
Home Improvement |