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What to Know Before Selecting Black Window Frames

Follow along as we tackle common questions homeowners ask when deciding whether black window frames are the right choice.

Headshot of Author Taeya DeVries

ByTaeya De Vries

Published 2022-06-02

a single black casement window with custom grilles over a kitchen sink

Black window frames are bold, beautiful and bound to stand the test of time. For many, they are a popular way to add contrast and modern appeal, but black framed windows are not the be-all and end-all answer for every home. Sometimes a different color window is better suited to achieve the look you love. Follow along as we answer common questions homeowners ask when considering whether black window frames are the right choice.

Are black windows more expensive?

More times than not, choosing black paint or stain versus a different color should not significantly increase the cost. It’s always important to ensure you’re comparing apples to apples though, in terms of size, material and window type. Within the same offering, choosing exterior black window frames over another color does not add extra expense. However, when deciding on an interior finish for wood windows, a black stain will cost more than leaving it unfinished due to the extra labor and material involved. For fiberglass windows, black is a standard window color option that does not increase cost compared to white windows.

Pella Impervia windows at dusk

Do black windows fade?

Black windows are protected against excessive fading, no matter which material you choose. Wood windows have EnduraClad® aluminum cladding options for the exterior, protecting them from the elements so that you can enjoy beautifully durable windows for years to come. Black fiberglass windows have a powder-coat finish that resists scratching, chalking and fading. Vinyl windows are easy to care for and never require painting or refinishing. Pella’s unique vinyl formula is designed to last and allows for excellent weathering and color retention.

What are the best black windows?

The best black window is dependent on your personal wants and needs. When deciding which material is best, consider the needs of your everyday life and what benefits of a window are most important to you. There are many black window material options to suit the demands of your lifestyle. Black wood windows bring natural warmth, beauty and long-lasting durability to the home. Black fiberglass windows are naturally strong, durable and weather resistant. For a more budget friendly option, many opt for exterior black vinyl windows which are low maintenance and energy efficient.

There are also many different types of windows offered in black. After selecting the material that’s best for you, think about whether you’d like the window to open and close. Depending on how you’d like the window to operate, the best black windows for your home might vary room by room.

What if I don’t want both interior and exterior black windows?

There are several options that allow you to select different colors on the interior and exterior. For instance, Pella® Lifestyle windows allow you to select an interior stain color and an exterior cladding color. With Pella® Impervia® windows, you can select solid-color black interior and exterior frames. Vinyl windows have dual-color frames with white interiors, but you can still select black for the exterior. All our materials offer black as an exterior color option. If you desire black window interiors as well, go with wood or fiberglass.

white pella house with reserve casement windows

Where do black windows work best?

Black windows work well in mild and cold climates, as the dark color attracts the sun. They are also a stylish choice in modern homes, complementing sleek and minimalist aesthetics. Farmhouse-style homes often feature black windows as well, typically in contrast with a white exterior. Even as trends continue to evolve, it seems certain that black window frames are here to stay. There’s no place where black windows are off limits ⁠— it ultimately comes down to your personal preference.

Have more questions about whether black windows are right for your home? Schedule a free consultation with a Pella expert in your area or shop online.

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