The Dilemma Of Choosing Between Wooden Windows And Pvc Windows

Obviously, wooden windows are made from naturally occurring trees

. PVC windows on the other hand, are made from synthetic materials. Debates discussing which of these windows are more environmentally friendly are ongoing. Some environmentalists point out that the use of wood is the better option because it is renewable, biodegradable and does not contain harmful substances. But others disagree with the argument that cutting trees have greater negative impact due to massive tree cutting for industrial purposes.

At one time it was safe enough to say that wooden windows had an edge over synthetic windows in terms of environmental hazard. It is because wooden windows are biodegradable. They can either be repaired or they can be turned into woodchips and recycled or disposed of to rot away. On the other hand, most old PVC window frames can be chopped up and recycled back into window frames again.

Windows made of PVC do have other benefits in addition to their recycling capabilities. Modern and well manufactured windows made from PVC are more energy efficient. Fuel is also a non renewable resource. Thus, more energy efficient homes have lesser negative impact to the environment than those houses that need more heating. Wooden windows are not known for their high energy efficiency. However, latest window technology has the capacity to make them as energy efficient as the synthetic windows. This is of course coupled with the increase in price. One very good example of improved wooden window technology is double and triple glazed windows. These windows have the capacity to improve draughty rooms into more cosy and more energy efficient rooms.

Low maintenance is another aspect that many PVC window makers are showcasing about their products. Unlike the wooden windows, PVC windows need not be painted and sanded to maintain their original looks. They also do not rot, shrink and swell as a result to changes in weather conditions. However, just like many other things, these synthetic windows do deteriorate in the long run. Not all makes of these windows are resistant to the destructive work of nature. Low quality windows tend to deform from their original structure losing some of their basic functions such as insulation. This means cheap, as usual, is not the answer.

Overall maintenance might be less to some extent with PVC windows, but this does not mean that they can be left completely alone. Regular cleaning maintenance is also necessary. They tend to accumulate more dirt and dust than the wooden types. If they are left as they are, some of their important parts such as jams and sashes may become defective.

Window life span is another aspect that is important to look into. At present, the general public seems to have a common perception that synthetic windows last longer than timber windows. This can be explained by the very obvious reason, timbers rot. However, it is also a fact that very old houses still exist today with their wooden windows still intact. Wooden windows rot but if maintained well, they can last for a very long time. In addition, wood preservatives are available which can surely increase the life span of any type of wood.

PVC windows are also known to offer better security because of the inclusion of high tech locking system. But the downside in this aspect is that some these windows are not as sturdy as the wooden windows. Some are too are not ideal for big windows or for conservatory roofs. To attain high security, more durable and heavier types are needed. Again, homeowners have to be ready to spend more.

In terms of cost, windows manufactured in PVC are cheaper than the wooden types. Even PVCU windows in traditional styles are still more affordable. The beauty and elegance that the more expensive version offer against the artificial look of their cheaper counterparts matters a lot too. In the end, homeowners have to base their decisions on what they want to achieve and how much they can afford to spend.

by: Chris Coxon

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