When building or purchasing a log home it is common for
people to not put enough thought into selecting their windows. This can be a big
mistake, because selecting the wrong window can have very expensive
consequences. With a little knowledge and planning, you can make the best choice
-- saving yourself both money and grief.
Typically the we recommend that you plan your first log home for at least two
years prior to building so that you have time to find good deals on things like
doors, windows, tools, etc. If you have storage space available for doors and
windows it is a good idea to buy them as you find good deals. Often you can get
perfectly good manufacturer seconds that are 1/32" off, or the color is one
shade off.
Regardless of when you buy your windows, here's a rundown of the major choices
you'll need to make:
There are currently four primary styles of windows on the market and all have
pros and cons.
Wood frames -- Wood framed windows do not conduct heat
very well, which is excellent because that means that when you pay to heat
your home the heat will stay where you want it – on the inside! Unfortunately
wood frames often have issues with swelling / shrinking, warping, and water
damage / rot.
Clad-wood frames – Clad-wood frames have a regular wood
frame that is protected by a exterior layer of a weather resistant material
(i.e. vinyl or aluminum). Clad-wood is an excellent product; they last a long
time and have a very low thermal conductivity. The down side is that wood clad
frames are fairly expensive.
Aluminum frames – These have greater durability than
plain wood. They also weigh less, are thinner in thickness and thus are easier
work with in some respects. While aluminum frames are inexpensive and
extremely durable, they also tend to transfer heat out of your home at a high
rate (unless you get a high quality aluminum frame with an incorporated
thermal break).
Vinyl clad frames – Vinyl frames are becoming more and
more popular. Although quality may vary, the right vinyl frame can be an
excellent purchase. They do not conduct heat in the same way that aluminum
frames do, and they do not have the maintenance problems of wood frames (they
are also a lot less expensive than clad wood frames). Look for good welded
corners to know you’re getting a quality frame.
The principle of heat transfer is an important one,
because installing a window that transfers heat can be almost like cutting a
hole in your wall and just leaving it empty. If you go with a cheap window that
transfers heat it will lead to larger heating bills during the cold season. This
may cost you more in the long run than simply buying a good quality window to
begin with.
So it is best to select the style of window that affords the most heat retention
properties that your budget can afford.
There are two key tips that any frugal consumer should be aware of when it comes
to buying windows …
Always try to buy a ‘stock’ window size versus a custom
size. Stock sizes are usually a lot less expensive than a custom size. Also,
it is easy to find a replacement for a stock sized window when it comes time
to replace or update your window. Be aware that stock sizes vary by region, so
you will need to ask around to determine what sizes are common where you are
building.
There is really no reason to avoid buying a quality
used window. You can often find excellent used windows for a fraction of what
new windows cost. And if you buying a used window of a stock size it will be
easy to upgrade at a future date!
That's all for now. Remember that you can save a bundle on
windows by shopping around surplus building materials stores, want-ads and even
flea markets. Keep your eyes open for the good deals. This will make your
"window shopping" easier.