If you’re shopping for replacement windows, one question you should be ready to answer is “What kind of cladding do you want on your new windows?”
If you’re wondering “What the heck is cladding on a window?”…don’t worry!
In this post we’ll explain what exactly cladding is and how to choose the right cladding for your windows.
What is Cladding on a Window?
Windows are made of wood. Though beautiful, wood is not an especially durable product to have on the exterior of your home.
Cladding is a durable outer layer, typically crafted from high-performance materials like aluminum, fiberglass, or vinyl, applied to the exterior of a wood window frame.
What are the Benefits of Window Cladding?
There are many benefits to having clad windows.
- Enhanced Durability: Say goodbye to frequent repainting and fretting about wood rot. Cladding stands steadfast against rain, wind, and UV rays, significantly extending the lifespan of your windows, often by decades.
- Minimal Maintenance: Forget about endless scraping and sanding! Cladding boasts low-maintenance appeal, freeing you from the traditional wooden window chore cycle. Simply wipe clean and bask in the unobstructed views.
- Boosted Energy Efficiency: Many cladding materials boast exceptional insulating properties, keeping your interiors warmer in winter and cooler in summer. This translates to reduced energy bills and a more comfortable living environment.
- Uncompromised Aesthetics: Beauty doesn’t get sacrificed at the altar of practicality. Cladding comes in a diverse palette of colors and textures, allowing seamless integration with your architectural style, be it classic, contemporary, or anything in between.
What is Window Cladding Made From?
When it comes to cladding your windows, you have options, each with its own unique strengths:
- Vinyl: The budget-friendly champion, vinyl cladding is affordable, low-maintenance, and available in a vast array of colors. Perfect for projects seeking value without compromising aesthetics.
- Aluminum: This sleek and modern option offers superior strength, lightweight construction, and fire resistance. Ideal for homeowners prioritizing durability and a contemporary look.
- Fiberglass: The ultimate blend of strength, insulation, and beauty, fiberglass cladding is the top choice for those seeking the best. Its exceptional performance and timeless appeal come at a premium price point but offer unmatched value in the long run.
- Composite: Many window companies create their own proprietary composite to use as a cladding material. Examples are Marvin’s Ultrex and Andersen’s Fibrex. These are generally made of a fiberglass base with additional materials added to enhance durability, environmental friendliness, and energy efficiency.
Can I Have Cladding Only on the Outside of a Window?
Yes!
Many homeowners want the durability of a clad window on the exterior of their home, and the warmth of wood on the interior.
A wide variety of windows offer this exact option. This is especially great for homeowners here in the Raleigh, NC area. The humidity and general unpredictability of our weather can be especially tough on wood, and over time causes wood rot and expansion issues.
In this article, a detailed comparison of each of Andersen’s window series, we note that 4 of Andersen’s 5 window series offer a clad exterior with a wood interior.
Does Cladding Come on a New Window? Or is it Applied Separately?
Windows are custom-made at the time they ordered. This allows each window order to made to the unique specifications that each homeowner wants.
Cladding is one of those specifications. When you order a certain window, it will be manufactured with cladding applied to the wood.
Cladding is not a material that is applied on-site or that can be applied after a window has been installed.
Summary
When it’s time to replace your windows, it’s important that you work with helpful professionals who can help you understand all of the options available to you.
At Window Works Co., we have helped thousands of homeowners in the Raleigh, NC area find windows they love. We’d love to help you, too!
Use the calendar below to schedule a time for a quick, no obligation Window and Door Consultation Call. We can’t wait to help you find the perfect windows for your home.
