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Storm window frames need to be made of a strong material to withstand the wind and debris outdoors during a storm or hurricane. The frame material also contributes to the storm window's heat conductivity and how easy the maintenance will be.
The most commonly used materials in storm window frames is vinyl, aluminum and wood. Those are used most often, but sometimes a frame can be made of another material that the contractor might think will work better.
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Storm windows usually have an aluminum frame and track that it will slide on, but you should keep in mind that a wood or vinyl frame is more resistant to heat transfer.
Wood Frames
Wood frames are sometimes ideal for home or business owners who want the frames to blend in well with the building they are being installed on. When it comes to wood frames though, there are a few disadvantages which we will list below:
- Wood weathers with age
- Expands and Contracts depending on the weather
- If installed in the winter, may not close easily in the summer
- If installed in the summer, may become lose in the winter
- Requires 3 times more material then a metal frame
- Require the most maintenance
Vinyl Frames
Vinyl storm window frames are commonly made of a material called polyvinyl chloride with UV (Ultraviolet) light stabilizers, to help keep it from breaking down.
Compared to aluminum, the vinyl material is a much better insulator but also is the hardest to find.
A major downside to vinyl storm window frames is the fact that they expand and contract when placed in high temperatures, and hot temperatures also fade any vinyl color other than white.
The Best Choice for Your Home or Business
So with there being upsides and downsides to all materials, which one would best suit your needs? Well the recommended solution is to choose an aluminum or vinyl-clad wood frame so you can have the best of both sides.
If that is not an option, or feasible for you, then a plain aluminum storm window frame will do the best job at protecting the interior of your home or business.
Note: If you live in Florida , aluminum storm window frames is the way you want to go, since vinyl and wood have many cons when it comes to the high heat and humidity.
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