What are the pros and cons of vinyl replacement windows? This is a very important question that homeowners must ask, with the impact that these windows could have on their homes.
Read on to learn more about what to expect from getting vinyl replacement windows.
What Are Vinyl Windows & How Long Have They Been Around?
Vinyl windows arrived on the scene around 1959 when many homeowners wanted alternatives to wood windows that would not have issues with rot. As these types of windows have become increasingly popular over the years, many different styles have become available, with windows in virtually any color.
The windows made from vinyl today have been reinforced for greater durability. In addition to the foam fill, these types of windows often feature aluminum or composite materials to help them maintain their shape. Depending on the price range, the windows might use either raw or recycled PVC.
Many vinyl windows, in addition to having broad color varieties, also have wood grain options that replicate real wood as closely as possible. These windows are also paintable, demonstrating how few differences exist between vinyl and wood windows today.
What Are Some of the Important Points When Considering the Pros and Cons of Vinyl Replacement Windows?
How significant are the pros and cons of vinyl replacement windows? The cons are relatively few, but worthy of mention because of the importance of this decision.
Some vinyl windows on the lower end of the price scale are more hollow than people may prefer. These types of windows might be flimsy, while other, cheaper windows might be bulkier and obscure more window glass. Lower-priced windows may also come with fewer color choices.
The pros of these windows include greater energy efficiency ratings, often considered the highest in the market. With the area seeing cold winters, having greater energy efficiency makes a difference in your heating bills. These windows are inexpensive compared to wood and are also easy to install.
Another important advantage of these windows is that they require very little maintenance. It’s safe for you to wash these windows without worrying about the type of deterioration that often occurs with wood. This material produces no splinters, which is another plus during cleaning.
The type of structural reinforcement that the best windows feature qualifies them for some of the top warranties available in the industry. Many of the warranties on the higher-end windows are lifetime warranties, so you will never need to think about replacement costs again. The warranty also transfers to a new owner if and when you decide to sell.
Lastly, vinyl windows, especially the high-end types, have as many choices available as you have with wood. A difference that sets these windows apart from their wood counterparts, however, is that wood rot never occurs, giving these windows a solid advantage over wood.
What Are Some Important Steps When You’ve Decided to Replace Your Windows?
If you’ve decided that vinyl windows are the right option, you might wonder what steps to take next. There are a lot of factors besides the style that you choose. One of the most important is the locations where you are having windows replaced.
For example, bay windows are better suited to first-floor areas in most houses. Windows at the front of the home may be larger than windows at the side or back. These are a few important considerations to keep in mind.
Regardless of whether you’re replacing one or several windows, you’ll want the windows to match your home’s architecture and style. This is particularly important if the neighborhood where you live has deed restrictions. Some local cities may also have requirements about the style you use.
Energy Pro Windows & Siding installs vinyl windows, contact us today if you want to know what are the pros and cons of vinyl replacement windows?
