Are composite windows environmentally friendly?

Because they were originally developed for the harsh climates of Canada and Scandinavia, a composite window frame's interior wood material is an insulator. Therefore, this type of window frame achieves high energy efficiency. They're typically composed of products leftover from the manufacturing of wood frames.

What are SBD accredited windows?

They are windows with SBD approval. SBD stands for "Secure By Design." This is a police-backed standard that promotes products designed to make it harder for break-and-enters to occur.

Are composite windows sound-proof?

They can create some sound-proofing, but there are better options if this is your primary concern.

Do composite windows and doors require maintenance?

They will require some maintenance, but significantly less than other options.

How energy efficient are composite windows?

Composite material has the same thermal properties as wood windows. They have better thermal performance as they expand and contract around the glass less, meaning the seal is less likely to break. Since fewer chemicals are needed to produce composite windows, they're an excellent option for improved indoor air quality.

Which finishes are available with composite windows and doors?

Matte, gloss, and satin powder-coated finishes are available, including anodized aluminum. Inside your home, the wood can be stained, lacquered, or painted.

Which colors are available with composite windows and doors?

Most manufacturers provide a RAL color matching service for aluminum-clad composite windows. This way, you can choose a bold color to make your windows stand out as a feature, or a more muted shade to blend in.

Are composite windows worth it?

Composite windows are excellent and superior to the more common choice of vinyl windows. They are energy efficient, low maintenance, attractive, and add value to your home.

How long do Composite windows last?

Due to the combination of materials used, they are durable and can last for up to 40 years.

Can you paint composite window frames?

The short answer is yes. That said, composite window frames are often clad in aluminum or metal. That means they're very low maintenance and come in a variety of colors. Chances are, you may not ever need to paint composite window frames.

Are composite window frames better than vinyl window frames?

While some composite window frames can be clad in vinyl, composite window frames are typically known to have a higher resistance to the elements. They also generally perform better and are made of stronger materials in general, like reclaimed wood and thermoplastic polymers. Paying close attention to the opening mechanism of the window also has a significant impact on its efficiency, which is independent of the frame material.

In-Depth Product Guide

Composite Window Frame

FAQs

·Related

Composite window frames, also called engineered wood frames, are made from a variety of materials, including wood, wood fibers, metals, plastics, and a binding agent such as glue.

Like when shopping for any other window type, look for windows with other energy efficiency features, such as multiple panes, argon-filled, and low-E coatings. Since composite window frames are made of various materials, checking with the manufacturer as to the nature of those products would also be in your best interest. Often, composite window frames can be fabricated using reclaimed wood fibers or recycled plastic.

The insulating value of windows is often rated by the whole window U-factor and the lower the value, the better. Energy Star rated windows should have a U-factor of 0.27 Btu/hr-sq ft °F or less for Northern climates.

While the embodied energy of composite may be higher than solid wood, composite can be resistant to moisture and require less maintenance over time.

Early window frame materials included wood, iron, and lead. Of those, wood is still used today, and metal frames have graduated to aluminum, stainless steel, and coated steel, with insulation breaks to cut heat loss. Lead is no longer commonly used in window frames.

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