We're finally replacing our windows (yay adulting, right?), and I'm stuck between wood and vinyl. We live somewhere pretty humid, summers can get sticky, and winters aren't exactly dry either. I've heard wood might warp or swell with moisture, but then vinyl apparently has its own issues over time too...like cracking or discoloration? Idk, you hear different things from everyone. Anybody have experience with either in humid climates? Curious which you'd pick and why.
I've installed both types countless times, and honestly, humidity can be a real pain with wood. Had a client once who insisted on wood windows in a humid climate—within two years, they were calling me back because the frames had swollen and stuck shut. Vinyl isn't perfect either (yeah, it can fade or get brittle eventually), but from what I've seen, quality vinyl holds up way better long-term in sticky climates. Just my two cents...
"Had a client once who insisted on wood windows in a humid climate—within two years, they were calling me back because the frames had swollen and stuck shut."
Yikes, that's exactly what I'm worried about. Just bought my first place and the previous owner put in wood windows. They look great, but now I'm wondering if I'm gonna regret it come summer... Is there anything I can do to prevent swelling, or am I pretty much stuck waiting for them to jam up on me?
Had a similar issue when I moved into my place a few years back. The wood windows looked fantastic and honestly added so much charm... but the humidity here is brutal, and I was worried they'd swell up. I asked around and did a bit of digging, and found that keeping them well-sealed with a good quality finish or paint really helps. Mine were already painted, but I made a habit of checking them regularly for cracks or peeling spots, especially before summer hits.
Also, if you have AC or a decent dehumidifier running indoors, it can make a surprising difference in how much the wood swells. I've managed to keep mine from jamming so far (knock on wood—pun intended), though they do get a little snugger when it's super humid. Bottom line is, you're not necessarily doomed to stuck windows... just gotta stay proactive about maintenance and indoor humidity control. Good luck!
Had a similar issue when I moved into my place a few years back. The wood windows looked fantastic and honestly added so much charm...
Good points about wood maintenance... hadn't thought about indoor humidity control playing such a big role. From an energy efficiency angle, vinyl windows usually have better insulation ratings (lower U-values), which might help keep indoor humidity more stable too. But yeah, cracking or discoloration can happen over time, especially with cheaper vinyl. Wonder if higher-end vinyl holds up noticeably better in humid climates? Might be worth checking out.
Had vinyl windows in my old place, and yeah, humidity was definitely a factor. Here's the thing—vinyl can be great, but quality really matters. When I first moved in, the previous owner had installed some budget-friendly vinyl windows. They looked fine at first glance, but after about two years of humid summers and chilly winters, they started to warp slightly and discolor around the edges. Not exactly a disaster, but definitely noticeable if you paid attention.
Eventually decided to replace them with higher-end vinyl (not top-of-the-line luxury stuff, just solid mid-range), and let me tell you, the difference was pretty clear. The frames felt sturdier from day one, and after another couple of years in the same humid environment, they're still looking good—no cracks or fading so far. Plus, I noticed a definite improvement in insulation—fewer drafts in winter and less condensation buildup when humidity spikes.
On the flip side, my brother went with wood windows because he wanted that "classic charm," as he always says (eye roll). He loves them but complains constantly about maintenance—sanding, painting, sealing... rinse and repeat every few years. He swears it's worth it for the aesthetics though. Personally, I'm too lazy for that level of commitment.
Bottom line: If you go vinyl in humid climates, don't skimp too much on quality. Mid-range or better seems like the sweet spot—good durability without breaking the bank. Wood looks awesome but be prepared to spend some weekends maintaining them or just embrace the "rustic" look when they inevitably start showing their age...
Good points here, especially about vinyl quality. I've seen similar issues with cheaper vinyl frames warping slightly in humid climates—usually due to thinner walls and lower-grade stabilizers in the material. Mid-range vinyl typically uses better UV inhibitors and thicker profiles, which helps a lot with durability. Wood can handle humidity if it's properly sealed, but yeah... maintenance is no joke. Fiberglass might be another option worth considering—pretty stable in humidity and minimal upkeep, though pricier upfront.
I've had vinyl windows in my place for about 8 years now—mid-range, nothing fancy—and they've held up surprisingly well through some pretty humid summers. But my brother went the wood route, thinking it'd look nicer (which it does, I'll admit), and he's constantly grumbling about sanding and resealing every couple years. Fiberglass sounds tempting, but the upfront cost always makes me pause... maybe next renovation, if I win the lottery or something, haha.
"Fiberglass sounds tempting, but the upfront cost always makes me pause... maybe next renovation, if I win the lottery or something, haha."
Haha, I hear you on the fiberglass windows—definitely a bit of sticker shock at first glance. But honestly, from what I've seen working on various homes, fiberglass really hits that sweet spot between durability and low maintenance. I've installed plenty of vinyl windows too, and they're solid performers in humid climates—rarely see issues with warping or moisture damage. Wood looks fantastic (your brother's got good taste!), but yeah... sanding and sealing every other year isn't exactly my idea of fun either.
If you're ever considering fiberglass seriously down the line, keep an eye out for seasonal sales or manufacturer rebates. Sometimes you can snag a pretty decent deal that takes the sting out of that initial investment. Either way though, sounds like your vinyl windows are doing just fine for now—no need to rush into anything pricey until you really feel ready for an upgrade.
Fiberglass definitely isn't cheap, but after dealing with wood windows in a humid climate for years, I'd say the upfront cost might be worth it. Had wood frames in our old house—beautiful, but man, the humidity was brutal. Constant swelling and paint peeling every summer. Switched to vinyl when we moved, and zero regrets. Fiberglass would probably be even better, but vinyl's been holding up surprisingly well so far, especially for the price.