Different climates can influence the suitability of various materials for your home. When it comes to windows, one type of material may be ideal for some regions but the worst choice for others. So what’s the best window material for your home?
The following is a quick list of the best and worst window materials for different regions shared by HGTV.
Pacific Northwest
Best
- Moisture-resistant window materials like vinyl, wood-resin composite, and fiberglass
- Windows with U-values of 0.3 or lower for better insulation
- Windows with higher solar heat gain coefficient, or SHGC
Worst
- Wood windows
Southwest
Best
- Windows with SHGC lower than 0.3
- Glass windows with a spectrally selective coating that allows light to pass through while resisting heat
Worst
- Cheap, single-pane windows with very little resistance to solar heat
Midwest
Best
- Windows with 0.3 or lower SHGC and U-values for those in the southern and central Midwest, but higher SHGC for those in the northernmost areas
- Casement windows for those in windy areas
Worst
- Aluminum window frames
- Single-pane windows
Northeast
Best
- Wood windows
- Windows with SHGC and U-values of 0.3 or lower
- Double-pane windows with a gas barrier and low-E coating
Worst
- Replacing a hardwood window in good condition with a factory-made modern one
Southeast
Best
- Double-pane, gas-filled vinyl windows
Worst
- Any window without a low-E coating
Coastal Southeast
Best
- Aluminum windows because they are resistant to impact, structural pressure, and air and water leakage
Worst
- Vinyl and wood windows
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