Your Guide to Window Sill Materials
By: Architectural Visions
When you’re installing new windows, interior window sills are an essential factor to consider from an aesthetic standpoint. Window sills frame the window, resulting in a finished look. Window sills are also important to consider from a functional perspective, as they are a place to display decorative accents, such as flower pots, or even serve as a seat or act as storage.
Window sills come in a wide variety of materials, so your options are near endless. However, when choosing a window sill material, it’s important to consider how it will fit in with the rest of the room’s design style and how you will functionally use the window sill. In addition, how you plan on using the window sill will impact the type of material you need, considering the durability, quality, reliability and cost. This guide will outline the various materials available for window stills and a window sill’s role in a window’s overall function and appearance.
Key takeaways:
- Window sills are available in various materials, and each option has its own set of pros and cons.
- Typical window sill materials are wood, PVC, stone, and tile.
- Wood window sills are durable but aren’t moisture resistant.
- PVC window sills are affordable, but not environmentally friendly.
- Stone window sills provide a beautiful, designer look but are expensive.
- Tile window sills offer endless design and color options, but the grout can become dirty.
Choosing the best window sill materials
Window sills are available in various materials, and each option has its own set of pros and cons. That’s why you need to consider how your window sill will fit into your home’s style, architectural details, and your lifestyle. Standard window sill materials are wood, particleboard, PVC, stone, and tile.
A unique window sill is a great way to introduce additional color or pattern into your home, and to make a design statement. Before selecting your window sill materials, educate yourself on the advantages and disadvantages of commonly used materials so you make the best choice for your home.The below outlines the most common window sill materials.
Wood window sills
A common material for window sills, wood window sills have been installed for decades. Solid wood is high quality, durable, easily accessible, and even can provide additional insulation. In addition, wood window sills can remain natural to showcase its unique grain or be painted for an extra design element. Oak, maple, mahogany and chestnut are all commonly used types of wood to use for a wood window sill.
However, wood window sills aren’t able to resist moisture well. To protect against mold and wood rot, wood window stills need ongoing maintenance. Wood can be expensive, so particleboard can be an alternative. However, particleboard will expand when it gets wet or faces humidity.
PVC window sills
PVC window sills are a popular material and come in many different sizes, finishes, and colors, even available in options that look like stone. You can order one in any shape to create a custom look in your space. PVC window sills will also stand up to moisture, temperature changes, and heavy use. In addition, a PVC window sill will not require much maintenance, provided you avoid abrasive cleaning agents. PVC window sills are an affordable option, but it’s worth doing your homework before purchasing so you can be sure you’re installing a high-quality product.
While PVC window sills come in plenty of design options and are durable, they are not as environmentally friendly as wood.
Stone window sills
A stone window sill will beautifully frame a window, providing a designer look to your room. However, this luxury element offers more than aesthetics. Stone is the most durable option you can install and will last forever. Whether you use a manufactured stone like quartz or Corian, or a natural stone like marble or granite, a stone window sill will resist moisture, humidity, sunlight and require little maintenance.
Price can be a hindrance for a stone window sill, as it’s the most costly option. In addition, stone window wills are more challenging to install and don’t offer any insulation.
There are several different stone window sill options; each has its unique qualities:
Granite: A popular choice, granite comes in many different colors and patterns. Granite is a natural stone that is durable, strong, and holds up well to regular use. Granite window sills will also resist water damage and humidity.
Marble: Marble is a luxurious look that is also highly durable. Carrying a marble counter through to the window sill is a cohesive, beautiful look. While strong, marble can stain more than other stone materials.
Quartz: Quartz is a manufactured stone that has a marble look. It offers the same durability as marble, only stands up to stains better. However, since it is manufactured, it does risk scratches.
Tile window sill
Tile window sills come in materials such as ceramic, glass, concrete, or granite. Tile is an excellent choice for bathrooms or kitchens because of its durability. Tile window sills will resist sunlight and moisture, require little maintenance, and are easy to clean. Tile offers a custom look but is less expensive than a stone window sill. Selecting a tile window sill gives you endless options for colors and patterns, such as mosaics.
Tile grout can become dirty quickly — especially in a high-use area such as a kitchen. Selecting a darker grout color can protect against stains.
Selecting your window sill material can be a fun selection during the window replacement process, but if you need an expert eye, contact the experts at AVI to learn more about the best window sill material for your home. AVI is your one-stop shop to browse, select, and install your next aluminum or fiberglass door or window with both in-person and online service options. Please don’t hesitate to contact us online or come by one of our Southeast locations and let us help you!