Locating the most desirable window frame design for a building is a task that has become a lot more complicated today due to the huge range of options that are available. If you want to pick a design that would enhance your property’s overall character a good option would be to choose wooden frames. Wooden frames look great on buildings of any age. Before you contact a glazer or carpenter with your specifications it is important to take a few minutes to discover the answer to the question – hard wood windows or soft wood windows which will last longer and why is this the case?
There are in fact a number of types of softwood and hardwood window frames that are worth considering. Softwood includes species such as spruce, pine, cedar, yew, and hemlock. Hardwood trees include beech, maple, cherry, oak, and mahogany. It is important to base your choice on longevity and durability as opposed to cost.
As a rule, those frames made out of softwood are going to be quicker to show the signs of wear and tear than styles made from harder woods, this is because of the different internal structures. All hardwoods have internal vessels that were used for water movement whereas softwood varieties instead feature tracheids. You can see this for yourself by examining the profile of the different types of wood, hardwood has visible pores that are not present on softer woods.
Of course the treatment that is given to the wood will also have a major bearing on how long the product lasts. It would be no use choosing hardwood if it is not coated with the right sealant to protect against the extremes of the climate.
Another factor that points to the hardwood designs as being more durable is the way that they can withstand knocks and scratches. Softwood can quickly become dented and damaged if knocked. Preserving a strong wood design requires a lot less effort than the softer varieties.
It is worth mentioning that a hard wood window is tougher to work with due to its strength. For this reason you will see that most hard wood frames have relatively basic and simple designs. Of course it is possible for a carpenter to create a complex style though this would require more time and skill.
Whether you go for hardwood or softwood you can have peace of mind that your new frames will give off an elegant appearance. By opting for wooden frames you can even raise the market value of your property.
Finding it impossible to choose the right sash window design? Get the ultimate low down now in our sash window refurbishment and sash window renovation London guide.
