The short answer
Vinyl and wood products differ in frame construction, finish options, maintenance instructions, profiles, repair paths, ratings, and design context. Wood may be clad or exposed; vinyl construction and reinforcement vary. Compare complete configurations and written responsibilities.
- Identify exposed and clad surfaces.
- Compare factory and field finish responsibilities.
- Use exact NFRC labels.
- Check applicable historic-property review separately.
Sources
Sources
- Window Types and Technologies — U.S. Department of Energy
- What Makes a Product ENERGY STAR — ENERGY STAR
- Window Energy Performance Ratings — National Fenestration Rating Council
- Houston Certificate of Appropriateness Guidance — City of Houston Planning and Development Department