Wooden Window

Yes, wood remains an excellent window material option, blending visual appeal with modern performance. Sustainably-harvested wood window frames provide good insulation properties and with protective sealants/finishes, withstand weathering for decades of reliable operation. 

Real wood brings architectural authenticity. While more initially costly than vinyl, their extreme durability offsets investment over time by avoiding frequent replacements.

Quality wood windows endure via generations of perfected manufacturing craftsmanship, although some brands shifted predominantly to vinyl and composite materials. 

Many homeowners still select windows made from sturdy old-growth pine, oak, or mahogany by specialty suppliers valuing detail. Beyond beautiful aesthetics, wood’s low conduction resists temperature transfer better than plastics, increasing comfort and energy savings.

On average, handcrafted wood windows installed run $500 to $1,500 per window opening depending on the intricacy of architectural shapes and details involved, which increases costs. 

This sizable initial investment pays dividends long-term due to exceptional durability and design quality. With proper upkeep, finely made wood windows operate smoothly beyond 40 years before considering replacement, making costs reasonable.

The three main disadvantages of wood windows relate to wood's natural properties. First, types like pine and fir lack natural rot resistance, needing repainting or restaining every 2-5 years to prevent damage. 

Secondly, fluctuations in humidity slowly warp untreated window frames over time. Finally, wood-boring insects attracted to bare wood must be controlled via safe treatments, or alternatively metal- or vinyl-clad coverings.

With proper sealing, priming, and a fresh coat of exterior paint every 3-5 years, high-end wood windows can continue operating smoothly for 50 years or longer barring any structural deficiencies. 

Choosing dense, stable old-growth species like oak can extend this projected lifespan even further. By comparison, vinyl windows last around 25 years typically before replacement becomes preferable. Well-cared for wood endures.

Yes, wood windows fall on the pricier end ranging $500-$1,500 per window opening versus basic vinyl or composite. However, given wood’s durability and proper protective finishing, fine wood windows function reliably for 40-50 years thanks to sturdy joinery. This exceptional longevity helps offset elevated initial costs substantially when viewed long-term rather than short-sighted.