Expert: Nazim Nice - 10/29/2009

Question
We are searching for new windows for our 1950's buff brick cape cod.  We currently have old wood "thumb-latch" type windows and are thinking of using aluminum clad wood (Bonneville Gold Series) for replacement.  I like the wood interior, even though I'm going to paint it,and it seems like it is a better quality window. Is this a good decision?  Is an all vinyl window as good as the salesmen make it sound?  I like low maintenance but don't want to sacrifice quality or aesthetics.

Answer
Hi Jodi,

An aluminum clad window is definitely a nicer window than a vinyl window.  Not only will it look better on the outside, but on the inside it will look better too.  You'll have a wood interior that will tie into your wood trim better (even if painted - you don't generally paint vinyl, so it will still look like vinyl on the inside).  The aluminum cladding is also very low maintenance but if they do need repainting, you can do this (vinyl windows generally are not painted).  They should last a long time.  

Nazim Nice
Principal / Architect
http://www.motion-space.com
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