Hard Wood Windows And Soft Wood Windows Which Is Likely To Last Longer And Why
Using wood to frame windows has been a tradition for several years. The wood types used are mainly softwood or hardwood. Although the density of the wood is implied in the name, not all wood that is hard is referred to as hardwood. The opposite is also true; wood commonly called softwood is not soft all the time. In general terms, however, softwood is less dense compared to hardwood. Hardwood windows have been known to last longer than softwood windows for reasons such as;
Hard wood contain natural oils that prevent decay. Since water and oil do not mix, water does not easily penetrate hardwood. Most softwood types on the other hand do not have such oils hence they can easily decay when exposed to moisture.
Oil-packed hardwood types are most often resistant to insect infestation. Since hardwood has the ability to hold paint, applying a single oil coat is sufficient to protect those that may be attacked by insects. Most softwood frames are easily attacked by insects. They also do not hold paint as well.
Softwoods are less dense; therefore, they loosen easily as they do not hold well to material used to attach them to surfaces. Having to keep fixing them to remain tight may cause them to come off easily. Hardwood is dense and does not come off.
Softwood cracks easily because the elements cause it to shrink and swell periodically. The elements do not affect hardwood which is usually compact and highly resistant to changing weather patterns.
Teak is one example of hardwood that is excellent for window frames. Teak that is oiled can last between twenty to forty years and up to well over a hundred years when oiled regularly. A single coat of oil is sufficient. Teak does not need to be covered even during the winter months. Softwood on the other hand lasts only a few years if left untreated. When treated, they can last between fifteen to twenty years. Softwood can be treated by sealing with wood stain or painting. Painting, however, makes it rot faster. This happens when moisture absorbed by the wood does dry properly because it is covered by paint.
Although hardwood is very expensive- sometimes up to five times the price of softwood, it is well worth the cost. The ability to resist the adverse effects of the weather ensures that hardwood lasts longer than softwood, which is more susceptible to weather.
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