Choosing a Window Box When choosing a window box, it is essential that you have all the information in front of you. Firstly, there are many materials to choose from: wood, vinyl, PVC, fiberglass, aluminum, wrought iron and copper to name a few.
wooden planters are the old standard that has been around for centuries and are an affordable solution to window box planting and gardening. The advantages are that they can be painted, they can be custom made, and are often affordable. The disadvantages are that the average wood window box lasts 3-5 years and usually shows signs of decay after only 2 years. They will need a liner inside and they are vulnerable to splitting, warping, fading, peeling, moisture and insects. The ideal choice for a window box or timber is cypruss or cedar. The woods have the ability to resist rot and window box will last longer than other woods.
vinyl window boxes are an alternative to wood that is a solution without rot window boxes. Vinyl is resistant to moisture, however, vinyl window boxes are generally not accept paint, have a shiny appearance and are made from thin materials and double wall may crack over time . Vinyl is an excellent choice for someone who wants a planter without decay that should be white and live in an environment where temperature changes are minimal. Although vinyl window boxes are not ideal for supporting heavy loads, they are lightweight and easy to install and many small businesses boxes can easily be attached to a window with collateral materials. Vinyl has many advantages over wood and affordable is not a solution to window box planting rot.
window boxes are made of PVC an upgrade over vinyl in that they are made with solid matrix materials which makes them more durable and prevents them from splitting, cracking or warping over time. In addition, the PVC window boxes are also moisture and rot free. Unlike vinyl, they have the ability to accept paint readily and they have a matte finish to prevent those who look like plastic. In fact, they often resemble the wood after being painted. The disadvantages are that they are heavier than vinyl and can be more expensive on average.
Fiberglass planters offer many advantages of PVC window boxes in that they do not rot and are resistant to moisture. The benefits of fiberglass planters are that they are available in custom sizes and can usually be painted as well. The disadvantages are that they are generally heavier, the limited availability and higher prices of all options. They may be more difficult to install, particularly for large packets. They tend to have a Glassier over for them, but they can usually be painted.
Then that takes us to the aluminum, wrought iron, and copper window boxes. Aluminum is an upgrade over wrought-iron in that it can be sprayed black to resemble iron, but will never rust. A window box wrought iron are generally signs of rust in 3-5 years and may require an interview. metal cages window box liners will keep soil directly or they can be used to hold potted plants instead. Some metal window boxes are manufactured in bulk in certain sizes and are affordable at this size. However, custom sizing can be expensive or limited in availability. copper planters tend to be expensive, but they offer a very distinct that can be substituted in any way.
With so many new materials on the market, it is important to understand the advantages and disadvantages to all of your choice. Whether you are looking for affordable, low maintenance, or a distinctive appearance, window box gardening can be a fun hobby that brings much joy in your life.
Posted on April 24, 2010.