A closer look at energy-efficient window options in Seattle

If you’re considering window replacement in Seattle, you have several amazing energy-efficient options to choose from—keep reading to learn more about the products we offer and how to choose the windows that are just right for your home.

Vinyl windows

Vinyl is a product that marries cost and aesthetics to achieve a product that fits within a lower budget and delivers both the look and insulation you want. While vinyl does not insulate quite as well as wood, it is still superior to older aluminum and steel window frames. Vinyl windows can be manufactured in a number of colors, and some products mimic the look of wood for the aesthetic you want without the high cost or upkeep associated with wood windows. This material is easy to repair if damaged and won’t splinter, warp, or rot like wood, but vinyl can be susceptible to damage from prolonged UV exposure and may lose some of its strength over the years.

Wood windows

Wood is an excellent insulator—wood replacement windows provide greater insulating properties than aluminum or vinyl frames, making this material a great choice when purchasing an energy-efficient window product for your home. Many homeowners love the natural and classic look and feel of real wood, which adds a sense of visual warmth to your home’s interior and exterior. Today’s wood windows are designed for durability, but wood can still be susceptible to issues if a regular schedule of maintenance is not followed. Wood windows typically require repainting or refinishing every few years, and should be checked regularly to ensure their caulking and other seals are intact to prevent moisture-related damage, such as warping and rot. These windows are often more expensive than other options, but will add value to your home when installed.

Andersen Fibrex windows

Andersen brand windows are made using Andersen’s proprietary Fibrex product, which is a composite material that combines polymers with 40% reclaimed wood fiber by weight. Thus, this product aims to provide the benefits of both natural and manmade products, as well as superior environmental benefits by reducing not only your home’s energy consumption, but the waste associated with new product manufacturing as well. Because Fibrex is extremely strong, Andersen windows can incorporate a narrower frame, which maximizes the amount of glass in your window for better views and interior lighting. Fibrex is also durable and long-lasting, and warrantied against rotting, blistering, corroding, and flaking. Despite the fact that Fibrex looks just like a wood window, it requires none of the high level of maintenance associated with wood, and never needs painting or refinishing for the look you want without the work.

Installing energy-efficient replacement windows is a great way to increase the value of your home. Not only will you enjoy beautiful, well-crafted windows, but you’ll also see a reduction in the monthly totals on your heating and cooling bills. If it’s time for you to replace your windows, let Washington Energy Services help! Contact us for a free estimate today.