Two of the most popular options that homeowners will have to choose from when installing new windows in their home are wood and vinyl. The problem is, while many homeowners have no issue narrowing their choices down to these two options, choosing between them can be a far more difficult task. If you have found yourself struggling to choose between wood and vinyl windows, taking the time to consider the key features outlined below can help you to make the decision that is right for you.

Budget

When it comes to cost, vinyl windows are the clear winner. These windows are often the most affordable option the market has to offer. Consequently, if money is a primary concern for you, you will likely want to go with vinyl when installing new windows in your home. 

Maintenance

Maintenance is another category in which vinyl seems to come out on top when compared to wood. While wood windows will require ongoing maintenance in order to ensure they do not become damaged by moisture or pests, vinyl windows will require nothing more than a basic cleaning from time to time. If you do not wish to invest much time or money into the upkeep of your new windows, vinyl will be the way to go. However, if you are willing to put in a little work to keep your wood windows looking great, you may find that this maintenance requirement is not really a deal-breaker for you. 

Durability

While there is no doubt that vinyl windows do offer an impressive level of durability, this is one category where wood comes out on top. In fact, high-quality wood windows can easily last as long as you own your home. This is one of the primary reasons why many homeowners find themselves willing to spend a bit more upfront to purchase wood over vinyl. 

Customization

When it comes to the ability to customize your windows, there simply is no material that can beat real wood. In addition to being able to easily craft windows of any shape and size using wood, homeowners will also find that wood windows offer the ability to change their appearance over the years, thanks to the ability to easily stain or paint these windows to match the current decor in your home. 

The Bottom Line

It is hard to declare a clear winner when comparing wood and vinyl windows since each of these options has so many wonderful benefits to offer. In most cases, it will simply boil down to what is most important to you. If you are looking for a budget-friendly option that doesn't require a lot of maintenance, vinyl will be the right choice for your new windows. However, if you are looking for a slightly classier option that will stand up to the test of time and offer you the ability to change the appearance of your windows over the years, wood is the way to go. No matter which of these options you ultimately choose, be sure to reach out to a window installation contractor in your local area to get your new windows installed properly.