What pops into your mind when you hear the term “vinyl windows”? If you’re like most people who haven’t done a lot of homework on window replacement probably nothing really pops into your mind. The fact is, anyone who is anyone who is seriously looking for replacement windows should have a firm grasp on not only what a vinyl window is, but also the styles they come in. The truth about vinyl windows is that they’re economical, efficient and thanks to modern advances in technology, fashioned to your individual taste.
Vinyl windows are among the most durable products made for homes that you’ll find. While that durability is convenient for contractors building a quality home, that doesn’t mean that a vinyl window is for every homeowner. There is, after all, a reason vinyl is one of several materials that windows are made out of. Following are some of the pros and cons of vinyl windows.
Pros
Smooth Operations
Have you ever been to a home with old windows that are painted shut or are warped to the point where they won’t open? Back in the old days people didn’t have the options of different materials for their windows. Back then, wood was their choice. Over time, wooden windows that were built before wood treatments that make wood much more durable (which we’ll get to in our next post), warp, or get painted over time and time again. Even when these windows were new it is hard to imagine their operation being smooth.
Vinyl windows, on the other hand, are made of a smooth material that, if built well, doesn’t warp. Due to the material and the way they are balanced vinyl windows operate smoothly throughout their lifetime.
Withstand the elements
Vinyl windows are made to last. They can withstand temperature changes, rainy days, snowy days, whatever is thrown at them. The material expands and contracts so minimally that it shouldn’t be a concern. From the tundra of the Dakotas to the deserts of the southwest vinyl windows are used in home construction. Certainly our hot summers and mild winters are no matches for well made vinyl windows.
Energy efficient
Due to the construction of vinyl windows and that the material is resilient enough in the elements to not change shape as the temperatures vary; they’re good at keeping inside air in and outside air out. By conserving energy, you’re lowering your electricity and/or gas bill. Over time, an energy efficient window will pay for itself with these savings.
Low Maintenance
Every window we sell is low-maintenance, but vinyl is as close to no-maintenance as possible. There are no periodical paintings or stainings. Since the material doesn’t warp they’ll open and close seamlessly throughout their lifetime. Low-maintenance means more time doing things you want to do and less time worrying about something that few people want to worry about; window maintenance.
Cons
Not as customizable
Vinyl windows can be ordered to your taste and style. The options aren’t quite as many as some materials, such as wood, though, due to the manufacturing process and the materials. People who are looking for something truly original might look beyond vinyl.
Not-changeable
Although the technology of vinyl windows has evolved to the point where you can get paintable vinyl, typically vinyl windows are not paintable. They do come in a myriad of colors, but once installed, that will be the color of your window for its lifetime. For people who like to change the façade of their home on occasion, vinyl windows might not be the right choice.
Quality equals durability
It’s important to do your research before you buy vinyl windows, especially in a climate as harsh as our is in Atlanta. Low-quality vinyl windows actually do tend to warp or discolor in the intense heat and ultra-violet exposure. Low-quality vinyl windows ae often made from regrind, or recycled, resins. Vinyl windows are built with thicker, reinforced extrusions and better resins and seal systems will hold up better in our climate. They do cost a little more to make and install, but it might be the difference in needing replacement windows down the line or having a window for life.
If there’s one thing we preach here at North Georgia Windows it’s that a window isn’t just a pane of glass; it’s actually one of the defining factors of your home. It’s just as important for us that you buy the right window, as it is for you to have just the right window punctuating you home. That’s why we offer a showroom for you to view window options at your convenience or we are happy to come to your house for an assessment. Contact us to begin strategizing which window is best for you.
