Vinyl Windows, Are They Really Your Best Choice?

Vinyl windows are becoming more attractive than ever before. They are fast becoming the windows of choice for both new home and remodeling, but the variety of types and materials can make the choice seem difficult. Vinyl windows are an excellent choice for any home. They are also the least expensive when you consider the factors listed below.

Replacing Your Windows

Window replacement requires the experience of a qualified window installer. Installing the window correctly will benefit you more than just placing it in the opening without the proper knowledge of how windows work. Window replacement can save energy over older leaky windows. Windows that block ultra-violet radiation reduce fabric fading. They are available in variety of geometric shapes & design for commercial & residential applications. Windows with compression seals allow only about half as much air leakage as windows with sliding seals, such as double-hung and slider windows because they compress the seal much tighter against the window frame.

Vinyl Replacement Windows

Replacement vinyl windows are a very popular choice. Replacement windows usually refer to new windows that mount within the frame of the existing wood window. Replacement windows take the place of existing windows when they have become deteriorated, drafty or non-functional. They have no "nailing fin" which allows you to install the new window with removing the existing wall material around the window on the exterior and interior. Replacement windows are available in several materials including wood, fiberglass, aluminum-clad wood, vinyl-clad wood, vinyl, glass blocks and other composite materials. Replacement windows can increase resale value of the home and are energy efficiency.

Vinyl Window Glass Types

Glass options include textured, tinted, tempered, Impact or laminated glass. Textured Glass is obscured or decorative. Tinted glass usually restricts the flow of sunlight. Tempered Glass increases the strenght of the glass and reduces breakage. Impact reduces breakage from severe hits and Laminated glass is a type of safety glass that holds together when shattered.

Insulated Window Glass

Insulated glass is one feature that helps save energy. The glass is normally 1/8” thick with a insulating spacer, then another 1/8” piece of glass. Low-E glass available with argon gas is an option for increased insulation and UV protection. For a window to be efficient, it is crucial to pay particular attention to the quality of the glass and it's insulating factors.

Double Hung Windows

Double hung windows are common in older homes and across the coast of the United States. These include double-hung vinyl windows, casement windows, sliding windows, vinyl bay windows, and vinyl bow windows. Double hung windows are a window where the bottom sash slides up and the top sash slides down. They allow you to swing the window inside for easy cleaning. Compared to old shop-built wood double-hung windows, the factory weatherstripping in modern vinyl windows allows only a fraction of the air leakage around the sash. Double-hung windows are the most common traditional window. The maximum benefit comes when choosing a double hung, high-quality window with a lower U-value frame and double or triple panes (with a low-e coating).

Vinyl windows are inexpensive, durable, and relatively energy efficient. The lower the U-value, the more energy efficient the window. Dual pane insulated glass, created by sealing two single panes to a spacer, establishing an insulating chamber, is nearly twice as efficient as a single pane of glass at reducing heat loss. You would want to choose energy-efficient low-e (low emissivity) coatings, or glass with wood or vinyl spacers between the dual panes. An energy star label means greater savings on heating and air conditioning; the American Council for an Energy Efficient Economy explains exactly what's needed for an energy-efficient window and the Efficient Window Collaborative compares different types of windows based on regional climate conditions.

Condensation On Windows

Condensation or sweating on the window is the result of excess air leakage, or excess water vapor in the air coming into contact with a cooler surface such as a window causing visible droplets of water. It can also be the sign to replace your windows. Condensation, leaking, drafts, hazy glass, warped and rotted wood, high energy bills, and difficulty opening and closing your windows are all signs that it's time to consider window replacement. The condensation is caused by a combination of high humidity and a less-than-great window. As you reduce leakage, you also reduce the chance of condensation on the window or window glass. If a significant percentage of the condensation comes from the window frame, replacing the glass may not be the best solution.

Vinyl windows are also extremely durable, provided it's a high quality vinyl window. They are affordable, durable, energy efficient, aesthetically appealing, and require little maintenance. Vinyl windows are almost 4 times more efficient than windows were 12 years ago. Vinyl windows are strong and extremely efficient in cold or hot climates. They are virtually maintenance free, requiring no painting or finishing, are extremely reliable and are also moderately priced.