Defining Aluminum-Clad Windows
As Architect explains, aluminum-clad windows are popular with pros and homeowners. These cleverly designed windows feature a wood frame and sash. On the interior, the wood is on show. On the exterior, a protective wrap of aluminum shields the wood from the elements.
Exploring the Benefits of Aluminum-Clad Windows
What are aluminum-clad windows known for? When people talk about them, several benefits tend to enter the discussion:
- Exterior protection: Wood is adored for its beauty, but it is vulnerable to warping, rot, and other damage. Constant vigilance and maintenance are vital. Aluminum cladding serves as a protective shield that changes the narrative. When the weather turns nasty, aluminum endures, so your aluminum-clad window does too. Even dings and dents are rare.
- Wood interior: Because wood is gorgeous and inviting, people welcome its warmth inside their homes. An interior wood window can be stained or painted.
- Design versatility: With the popularity of aluminum-clad windows, manufacturers are continually adding new options. You’ll find a wide range of cladding colors, styles, interior woods, and hardware. Whether you want a modern look or something suitable for a historical home, there’s an aluminum-clad window that will fit the bill.
- Ease of maintenance: Thanks to the user-friendly aluminum wrap, aluminum-clad windows require almost no maintenance. A heavy rainfall can provide sufficient cleaning. If more is desired, rinsing your windows with a garden hose will generally do the job.
- Efficiency: Aluminum-clad windows resist air infiltration better than standard wood windows, making them more energy efficient. This can provide significant savings on energy bills over the life of a window.
- Curb appeal: Aluminum-clad windows look amazing in virtually any setting and provide smooth service without demanding constant maintenance. As a result, they’re a favorite of both homeowners and potential homebuyers. Installing them is a fantastic way to add to your property’s appeal.
Identifying Concerns About Aluminum-Clad Windows
Aluminum-clad windows do come with potential concerns. Some budget models have issues with conducting heat. However, most aluminum-clad windows are treated to prevent this. Some people express concern that the cladding generally cannot be painted without voiding warranties. However, there are so many colors and styles available that it’s normally possible to find the look you want from a trusted manufacturer.
Other complaints you might hear include that the cladding can conceal problems with the exterior portions of the wooden windows or that the cladding cannot be replaced when it fails. Issues with the wood typically indicate that the cladding has failed and allowed a threat like moisture to sneak in. Replacement is generally recommended at this point. However, quality aluminum-clad windows can last decades, and they often come with lengthy warranties.
Discovering Other Types of Clad Windows
Your window journey begins with a question: what are aluminum-clad windows? That naturally leads to another query. Are there other types of clad windows? With the clear popularity and advantages of aluminum-clad windows, it’s probably no surprise to learn that there are other clad options.
Vinyl-clad windows offer the same delightful duality. You’ll enjoy a warm wood window inside with a more durable exterior. In this case, the protective shield is vinyl, which is still easy to maintain and less prone to damage than wood. It also fairs well in humid areas. However, vinyl is more vulnerable to dents, dings, and scratches than aluminum. What about composite-clad windows or fiberglass-clad windows? These products are new and rarer, but they may become more popular in the future.
