When it comes to custom wooden windows and doors, the wood species you select can dramatically shape the final look, feel, and long-term performance of your design.
At Fenstür, we specialize in premium European-style wood windows and doors — built with craftsmanship, engineered for longevity, and finished to perfection. In this guide, we’ll walk through the most popular wood species for high-end window and door projects, explain how our finishing process sets us apart, and help you make confident, informed decisions based on your aesthetic goals, climate, and budget.
Why Wood Windows?
Wooden windows offer timeless elegance, architectural compatibility, and a warmth that no other material can replicate. Unlike vinyl or aluminum, real wood elevates a space. And with the right finishing process, it can also deliver exceptional performance.
Fenstür wood windows are:
- Energy efficient: Wood is a natural insulator with low thermal transfer, keeping homes comfortable in extreme heat or cold.
- Low maintenance: Our advanced manufacturing and multi-step finishing process reduces the need for frequent upkeep.
- Long-lasting: With proper finishing and installation, wood windows can endure for decades, even in challenging climates.
Top Wood Species for Custom Windows and Doors
We offer a curated selection of premium wood species, each with its own look, feel, and benefits. Here's a snapshot:
- Walnut: Rich color, grain detail, and excellent durability.
- Hickory: Known for strength and unique character.
- Ash: Light-colored wood with a straight grain, perfect for modern designs.
- Cherry: A smooth finish and warm hues that deepen with age.
- Teak: Naturally weather-resistant and luxurious in appearance.
- Western Red Cedar: Straight grain and red-brown color. Rot- and moth-resistant.
- Cypress (Yellow Cedar): Narrow and white sapwood. Color ranges from yellow to brown.
- Mahogany: Classic choice with deep tones and exceptional durability.
- White Oak: Straight grain with a medium texture. Light to medium dark brown color.
- Red Oak: Lighter and coarser than white oak. Color ranges from light red-brown to dark red-brown.
- Alder: Warm, honey-like tones, ideal for rustic styles.
- Pine: Affordable yet durable, great for painted finishes.
- Western Hemlock: Light, uniform appearance for a minimalist look.
- Coastal Douglas Fir: Subtle grain patterns and excellent stability.
Choosing the Right Wood for Your Home
As a hallmark of luxury craftsmanship, wooden windows offer a premium look and feel. They’re more like pieces of furniture; they stand out, enhancing the character of the home and contributing to the aesthetic of the room.
With this in mind, here are the factors that our team at Fenstür hears most often from designers and homeowners who are choosing the right wood species.
Cost
Species like Pine, Hemlock, and Fir are more affordable than denser or imported woods like Teak or Walnut. But local availability plays a big role too — what’s common in one region may be considered exotic in another.
Your design priorities and location will help determine the right balance between beauty, performance, and budget.
AESTHETICS
Wood windows are like fine furniture — visible architectural elements that enhance the character of a space. Choose a wood species that aligns with your design intent.
- Want a sleek, modern look? Consider Ash or Hemlock.
- Seeking a rustic or traditional feel? Try Alder, Mahogany, or Cherry.
- Prefer a standout grain or bold tone? Walnut, Teak, or Hickory may be your match.
Remember, Fenstür can match your window finish to existing millwork or create something entirely custom, so don’t be afraid to dream big.
Durability
While all wood species have different natural strengths, our factory-applied protective finishes ensure that weather, moisture, and insects never directly touch the wood.
Still, harder woods tend to machine better, hold finishes longer, and are perceived as higher-end. Plus, they resist dents and wear from everyday use, especially helpful for doors or windows in high-traffic areas.
Enhancing Beauty & Longevity: Finish Options
Finish options are where wooden windows have really evolved in recent years. These additional layers protect against moisture, UV rays, wear, and more. Fenstür gives more life to your wood by applying a preservative flood coat and paint before glass and hardware are installed, ensuring every last inch is protected.
All that’s left is to choose a color and finish type: solid or stain to enhance the natural grain and color for a polished appearance.
Popular Finish Options From Fenstür
Fenstür finishes are engineered to protect your wood for the long haul while enhancing its natural beauty.
Exterior Finishes:
- Available in gloss (#50), satin (#30), and matte (#5).
- Standard stains and solid colors include white, black, browns, and grays.
- Wheat Clear is our standard transparent finish, though we always recommend a slight tint to block UV damage.
Interior Finishes:
- Satin (#30) or flat (#15) options.
- Choose from clear coats, stains, or solid finishes to match your interior aesthetic.
Custom Finishes:
- Want something more personalized? We offer custom color matching, wire-brushed textures, split finishes, and more.
- Our team can work onsite to match finishes with cabinetry, furniture, or historical features.
Sustainability & Craftsmanship in Fenstür Windows & Doors
As Canada’s most energy-efficient wooden window and door manufacturer, Fenstür balances modern innovation with traditional craftsmanship.
Environmentally Conscious
- We source local, responsibly harvested wood to support sustainability.
- Our low-VOC, non-toxic finishes protect indoor air quality and the environment.
Built to Last
- All products are hand-assembled and finished in-house, with rigorous inspection at every stage.
- We finish and seal all surfaces in a controlled environment, extending product life and reducing maintenance.
Value Beyond Aesthetics
Premium craftsmanship enhances both the beauty and functionality of a home. At Fenstür, every product is manufactured, assembled, and painted in-house to guarantee the highest quality.
Our hand-assembled process includes visual inspections at each step, ensuring precision and durability. By sealing our products in a controlled environment, we also extend their lifespan and reduce maintenance needs, offering lasting value.
This guide has likely given you valuable insights into selecting the perfect wood species and finish for your next project. From aesthetics to performance, wood windows deliver a premium look and feel that truly stands out.
Choose Fenstür's exceptional craftsmanship to ensure your clients will be thrilled with the results for years to come. Before starting your next project, explore our custom options or contact us directly.
