20 Dec Answering Your Top 3 Questions About Window Frames
Perhaps you’ve noticed cracks and air leaks in or around your window frame. Or perhaps you’re in the midst of planning a window replacement for all of the windows throughout your home, meaning you’re also ready to consider other framing options.
Regardless, you likely need a guide to provide you with answers to all of your common questions.
That’s why we’re here today to break down the basics of window framing:
#1 — Why is the Frame Material Important?
The frame — defined by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) as “the enclosing structure of a window” — plays an essential role in the overall performance of your home’s integrity.
After all, not only do windows impact your home’s strength, but they can also determine how high your monthly bills are.
“Taking into account the frame as well as the glazing when choosing a window is vitally important in ensuring that the energy efficiency of the window is suitable,” as explained by Energy Education. “The choice of the right window frame, especially a modern window frame, can cut air infiltration in a home down to nearly zero by covering cracks and creating a good seal.”
In other words, your window framing material plays a large role in just how well the window will insulate and protect.
#2 — What Are My Framing Options?
In the State of Florida, thermal resistance is going to be a primary concern when determining what material you’ll choose for your window frames.
“Improving the thermal resistance of the frame can contribute to a window’s overall energy efficiency, particularly its heat loss rate or U-factor,” according to the U.S. Department of Energy. “There are advantages and disadvantages to all types of frame materials, but vinyl, wood, fiberglass, and some composite frame materials provide greater thermal resistance than metal.”
For example, vinyl window frames are constructed with polyvinyl chloride, or PVC, and feature UV light stabilizers as well as internal spaces that remain hollow for additional insulation.
Similarly, fiberglass windows also come with space within which one can insert additional insulation material. What’s more, they require less maintenance than some other materials, like wood.
#3 — What is Fibrex®?
Here at Renewal by Andersen® of Florida, we’ve decided to revolutionize one of the most reliable window framing options on the market today: composite framing.
Thus, we offer state-of-the-art Fibrex® frames with our replacement windows, the likes of which are twice as strong as vinyl! Resistant to cracking, pitting, warping, or rotting, Fibrex® was designed with superior performance in mind — particularly in the wake of Florida’s unpredictable climate.
Additionally, Fibrex®…
- Has a lower thermal expansion rate than vinyl
- Is less likely to warp or bend compared to other materials
- Has a higher heat distortion point than vinyl and can withstand Florida’s hottest conditions
- Is cleaner and more environmentally friendly as it is made with 40% reclaimed wood fiber
So, are you ready to experience the difference of a Fibrex® frame for yourself? Then it’s time to reach out to the team here at Renewal by Andersen® of Florida!
Our replacement windows are award-winning, energy-efficient, recognized by ENERGY STAR®, and come with industry-leading warranties! Contact us today at (855) 830-2420 to get started with your FREE consultation.