Vinyl, Fiberglass or Wood Windows
The frame material affects price, looks, upkeep and how a window handles Iowa's big temperature swings.
Request a window quoteVinyl
Affordable, low-maintenance and well insulated. Quality varies widely between brands.
Fiberglass
Strong and stable in heat and cold, so seals stay tight. Can be painted.
Wood
Warm look and paintable, but needs upkeep outside unless clad.
Clad wood
Wood inside with aluminum or vinyl outside combines looks and low upkeep.
Composite
Blends of wood fiber and resin offer stability and low upkeep.
Colors
Dark exterior colors can heat up in summer sun; ask about materials rated for it.
Older homes
Wood or clad wood often suits historic homes best.
Budget
Compare quotes on the same material and glass package.
Next
See replacement windows.
Expansion and contraction
A frame that swings from below zero in January to the 90s in July expands and shrinks. Materials that move less keep seals and corners tight for longer, which is one reason fiberglass is popular in cold climates.
Interior look
Vinyl comes in white and a few wood-grain finishes. If you want stained wood trim inside, wood or clad-wood windows give you that.
Resale
Buyers notice windows. A consistent, quality set across the house helps a home show well.
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