Wood in construction.

First of all, wood provides insulation, as opposed to metals that are natural heat conductors. It is 400 times more effective as an insulation than steel and 1800 times more effective than aluminum.

Energy efficiency is wood's middle name. A well-constructed wood door coupled with a good weatherstripping package provides the best-possible barrier to heat or cold. Today's modern wood windows, with Low-E glazing, warm-edge technology and inert gas between the panes give builder's the most energy- efficient windows possible in their homes.

 

Wood is the most environmentally friendly.

Naturally sound-absorbent, wood windows help block noise from entering or exiting a room. On the other hand, wood doesn't buckle or twist, thus allowing wood windows and wood doors to be opened easily, which is especially important in an emergency.

More importantly, wood is the most environmentally friendly of the major materials used in today's building industry. Unlike steel, aluminum, and even Portland cement, wood is a completely renewable resource. Those other materials, once removed from the ground, can never be replaced while nearly two billion trees are replanted each year on public and private lands.

 

Wooden window.

Wood windows and doors install easily. Pre-assembled units install quickly into a rough opening. They adjust easily with simple carpentry to prevent sticking. Wood windows and doors provide long life. They don't rust or corrode, no matter how hostile the environment. They can be cleaned easily by simply washing and, if need be, they can be completely refinished. Furthermore, today's modern preservative treatments provide a longer life than ever before.

 

Interior bedroom of new wooden house.

The latest entry into the fray, vinyl, also poses potential environmental questions. Like aluminum and steel, vinyl production uses a non-renewable natural resource petroleum. Unlike wood, which can be manufactured into a window with relatively low impact, vinyl poses serious potential threat to the environment, with the possibility of leeching of chemicals into water and soil a major concern. Vinyl also presents problems in terms of recyclability. Because it does not decompose properly, the disposal of worn out vinyl windows becomes a major concern.

When factoring in all of these positives, it becomes increasingly obvious that wood really is good, both environmentally and aesthetically. Thus, the modern home builder can give customers the warmth and beauty they desire while allaying their fears about the environmental impact.

Source: Wdma