There is no question that impact windows are a great investment for your home. They are visually appealing so they improve the look of your home’s exterior and interior. And they also help with energy costs. Thats because they are more efficient than older windows. Most importantly they protect your family against potential damage from the strong winds and flying debris of a tropical cyclone. This last one is especially important if you live in an area prone to hurricanes like Southwest Florida. But while impact windows are a no brainer for your Florida home knowing what type of window frame to choose is not as easy.
So we want to give you the information you need to decide which window frame to choose. We’ll detail what window frames are. And we’ll discuss aluminum and vinyl window frame options for your impact windows. We also provide some benefits of each frame type.
What is a window frame?
In simple terms, a window frame surrounds the window and supports it. In other words, the frame holds everything together and in place.
Window Frame Parts
The frame of an impact window is composed of multiple parts. These include the head, the side jambs and the sill. Each of these are discussed briefly below.
- Head – the support component found at the top of the window’s frame
- Side jambs – the frame’s side jambs are the two sides of the window frame that run vertically from top to bottom
- Sill – the support component at the bottom of the window’s frame
You can see each part visually in our basic diagram below:
Window Frame Material
The impact window’s frame can be made from a variety of materials. But two of the most common materials are aluminum and vinyl. And these are also the two window frame materials we discuss in this article.
So we’ll discuss each frame material below.
Aluminum Window Frames
Impact windows with aluminum window frames are made from a type of silvery metal called aluminum.
This material is strong, lightweight, and durable. These are great attributes for an impact window. And unlike metal, aluminum is naturally resistant to oxidation (rusting).
Aluminum window frames may be either natural colored or powder-coated to add color. Powder coating is an extremely durable coating that can last decades. Combined with the durability and strength of aluminum these frames can take quite the beating. This makes them ideal for use on impact windows.
Some key benefits of aluminum frames are below.
Pros of Aluminum Framed Windows
- Long lasting: aluminum is strong, lightweight, durable and doesn’t rust
- Powder coating longevity: powder coated finish last for decades to reduce need to refinish the frames
- Color choices: aluminum frames can be powder coated to a accomplish a range of colors
- Lightweight: aluminum windows are light so they are easy to open and close
Learn more about Impact Aluminum Frame Windows.
Vinyl Window Frames
Vinyl window frames are made from a thermoplastic called polyvinyl-chloride (PVC). Vinyl frames are commonly used for replacement window installations. And they are good fit for Florida homes because they resist fading from the sun and don’t rot (from the humidity and rain). Also, they don’t need to be painted or finished. All this means that good quality vinyl impact windows are low maintenance and generally worry free.
Another benefit is that vinyl frames are also energy efficient. This will help you improve energy bills both in the summer and winter months.
Some key benefits of vinyl frames are below.
Pros of Vinyl Framed Windows
- Durable and long lasting appearance: vinyl frames resist fading and rotting
- Low maintenance: don’t need to be painted or finished
- Energy efficient: help improve your energy bills
- Resist moisture and condensation
Conclusion
Impact windows are a great investment for your Southwest Florida home. They not only look great, but they also help protect your family from severe weather and can reduce your energy bills. Choosing high-quality impact windows can provide low maintenance, worry free windows for years to come. You can choose between vinyl and aluminum window frames. Both have their benefits.
Want to see both of these impact window frame options in person or find out more? Stop by our showroom in Lehigh Acres FL or reach out to the pros at Eurex Shutters. Call us at (239) 369-8600 or fill out our quick form below to request a consultation.
