Key Takeaways
- Vinyl windows are affordable and have lower maintenance requirements.
- Wood frames provide natural beauty and are highly customizable.
- On average, a vinyl window costs $650, compared to $1,300 for a wood-framed window.
When it’s time to replace your windows, one of the biggest decisions you’ll face is choosing a frame material. Vinyl windows, made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), are affordable and offer adequate energy efficiency and durability. Best of all, they’re virtually maintenance-free — perfect for homeowners who don’t want to worry about painting or resealing.
Wood windows, often crafted from pine, mahogany, or Douglas fir, offer a classic look that vinyl can’t replicate. Wood is a natural insulator, making it one of the most efficient window frame materials. Plus, wood windows are highly customizable; you can paint or stain them to suit your style.
However, wood windows come with a hefty price tag. “Wood windows cost more than vinyl windows. The materials and installation add to these costs, making them 50% to 100% more expensive,” said Jim Marino, CEO of Pinnacle Home Improvements. Wood-framed windows also require ongoing maintenance to keep them in good condition.
You’ll also want to consider factors such as lifespan and installation when making your decision. If you’re ready to connect with top window companies, enter your ZIP code below.
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Vinyl Vs. Wood Windows: What’s the Difference?
Vinyl and wood windows mainly differ in terms of price, appearance, and maintenance requirements. Vinyl windows usually cost less and don’t require much upkeep. However, you can’t paint or stain them after installation — and getting nonstandard shapes or sizes typically requires a special order.
The table below highlights key factors such as these.
| Factors | Vinyl Windows | Wood Windows |
|---|---|---|
| Cost per window | $255–$1,050 | $700–$2,000 |
| Appearance | Not easily paintable | Highly customizable with paint or stain |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance | Need to be refinished, painted, or sealed every 5–10 years |
| Energy efficiency | Medium to high, depending on the brand | High, as long as the window is well-maintained |
| Lifespan | 20–40 years | 30+ |
| Installation | Can be DIY-friendly | Professional installation necessary |
Regardless of whether you go with vinyl or wood windows (and depending on your manufacturer), you can choose the number of glass panes, specialty glass coatings, and insulating gas filling between the panes to boost energy efficiency.
Cost
Vinyl windows are known for their affordability. The average cost of a single vinyl window ranges from $255 to $1,050*, but prices vary based on the size, brand, and customization level. Replacing 10 vinyl windows typically costs between $2,550 and $10,500, with a national average of $8,500. (Although if you’re after a cheap window replacement, you can find options that set you well below the average cost.)
Wood windows are among the most expensive frame types. Expect to pay between $700 and $2,000 per wood replacement window. Replacing 10 wood windows typically costs around $10,000.
*Costs are sourced from contractor estimates used by Angi.
Appearance
Vinyl windows are less customizable than wood windows. Most manufacturers offer a variety of factory-applied colors and finishes, as well as decorative grille patterns and multiple frame styles. Still, vinyl cannot be easily repainted or stained. Custom shapes or sizes may be possible but involve a longer lead time and higher cost.
You can purchase solid wood frames and stain or paint the interior and exterior to match your home’s design. Many manufacturers also offer custom prepainted or prestained options. Another popular choice is wood-clad windows, which feature a wood interior with a thin layer of fiberglass, vinyl, or composite cladding on the exterior to better protect against the elements and reduce maintenance needs.
Maintenance
Where vinyl windows truly shine is their durability. Aside from washing the frames once or twice per year to remove dirt buildup and grime, they require practically no ongoing maintenance.
Wood windows typically require painting, staining, or resealing every five to 10 years, depending on your climate and the finish used. Wood is a porous material. If it’s not protected with paint or a sealant, it will absorb moisture, warp, and rot.
“While wood windows provide a certain charm, homeowners will definitely need to be prepared to put more effort into their maintenance over the years,” Marino said. Wood windows in extremely humid, rainy, or snowy climates will require more upkeep than those in milder climates.
Energy Efficiency
While vinyl doesn’t offer quite the same natural insulating properties as solid wood, these windows are still good picks if you’re after energy-saving properties. Efficiency varies by brand, but many of today’s best vinyl windows feature multichambered designs, which have multiple hollow cavities within the frame, enhancing insulation. When paired with energy-efficient glass, a vinyl window can rival the performance of a wood window.
Wood is a natural insulator, making wood-framed windows highly energy-efficient. Long-term efficiency, however, depends heavily on maintenance. Poorly maintained wood windows are vulnerable to warping and rot, which can lead to drafts and energy loss.
Lifespan
Most vinyl windows last between 20 and 40 years, depending on the quality of installation, climate, and the window brand. Frames exposed to constant sunlight and high temperatures tend to deteriorate faster than those in milder climates.
Wood windows can last 30 years or more with proper maintenance, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. Because wood is porous and can absorb moisture, the longevity of wood frames largely depends on the consistency of upkeep. To prevent moisture damage and wood rot, these windows must be repainted or resealed every five to 10 years.
Installation
Vinyl windows are lighter and easier to handle. Since they don’t require sanding, staining, or painting beforehand, they’re a more manageable option for seasoned DIYers.
Wood windows are heavy and require precise fitting, making professional window installation necessary. In fact, some manufacturers will void the warranty if the window isn’t professionally installed.
That said, regardless of the frame material, an improperly installed window will compromise energy efficiency. For most homeowners, we recommend professional installation for peace of mind and performance.
Advantages and Disadvantages of Vinyl Vs. Wood Windows
There is no single best window material. Vinyl frames are affordable and low-maintenance, but they aren’t as customizable as wood and may not last as long. Wooden windows offer classic beauty and superior insulating benefits, but they require a lot of upkeep and come with a higher price tag.
Vinyl Windows
Pros
- Require almost no maintenance
- Come in many colors and frame styles
- Most affordable window frame material
Cons
- Not stainable or paintable after installation
- Slightly less energy-efficient than wood frames
Wood Windows
Pros
- Offer timeless natural beauty
- Fully customizable; you can paint, stain, and reshape
- Long-lasting with proper maintenance
Cons
- Expensive compared to vinyl frames
- Require regular upkeep to prevent rot or warping
Are Vinyl or Wood Windows Best for You?
If you’re worried about maintenance, a vinyl-framed window will be your best friend. Other than washing away regular dirt buildup from the frame a couple of times a year, no ongoing maintenance is required. You can also select a frame color at the time of purchase to complement your home’s design. Just keep in mind that vinyl frames aren’t easily paintable, so you’ll want to choose a color you’ll be happy with for the long haul.
If you’re looking for the unmatched beauty and customization of wood, then wood frames may be a no-brainer. They provide a high level of energy efficiency and can last for decades when well-maintained. Just be sure that you have a maintenance plan in place, whether that means tackling refinishing projects yourself or hiring a professional every few years to repaint or reseal the frames.
Next Steps
If you’re on the fence about whether a vinyl or wood frame is best, speak with an experienced contractor. They can give you custom advice based on your local climate and your home’s style. When you have a frame type narrowed down, we recommend getting a few different quotes and reviewing cost and warranty information to make an informed decision.
Alternatively, if you’re still undecided, consider exploring even more types of window frames to find the best for your budget and home.
FAQs About Vinyl Vs. Wood Windows
Replacing old drafty windows with new energy-efficient models will boost a home’s value. You can expect to recoup 62.9% of the cost of replacement wood windows, according to the Zonda Media 2024 Cost vs. Value Report*. For comparison, you can recoup 67.1% of the expenses for vinyl replacement windows.
If you’re replacing windows with home value in mind, it’s important to consider your home’s style and what buyers in your area expect. The more expensive option isn’t always the best investment.
*© 2024 Zonda Media, a Delaware Corporation. Data from the Zonda Media 2024 Cost vs. Value Report can be downloaded free at www.costvsvalue.com.
You can replace old wooden windows with vinyl if you’re looking for a low-maintenance frame option. Vinyl windows may not last as long as high-quality wood windows, but they are more affordable, require minimal maintenance, and come in many colors and styles.
Some home styles, however, don’t look as good with vinyl windows. Wood windows are a better fit for log cabin, Craftsman-style, and American Farmhouse-style homes.
Composite windows can be a great alternative to vinyl or wood frames. They’re constructed from a blend of wood fibers, metal, and resin and can mimic the look of wood without the associated maintenance. These frames are also highly energy-efficient and durable.
The downside is that not all manufacturers produce composite windows, making them harder to find, and they are much more expensive than vinyl-framed window options (though likely less expensive than wood windows).
Plastic windows, also known as vinyl windows, are more affordable than wood windows. Wood is better if you’re after a natural look and premium energy efficiency. However, plastic windows can also be highly energy-efficient and come in a variety of styles and colors to suit many home styles.
