Vinyl Windows are windows made out of a plastic material, PVC. Vinyl windows were first developed in the 1970s, to compete against costlier wood windows. Despite their relative youth, vinyl windows now account for roughly the same market share as wood windows.
Fiberglass windows are up to eight times stronger than vinyl, which means they generally last longer. A good quality vinyl replacement window can last up to 30 years or more, while fiberglass windows can last 50 years or more. The reason fiberglass replacement windows are stronger and more durable is due to its makeup.
A leading complaint from homeowners is that vinyl window frames are too bulky. Because this material is not as strong and durable as fiberglass and aluminum, the manufactures have to use more of it in frame construction.
FALSE: They're Not Durable
Because vinyl windows are so light, many people believe they're not durable. This couldn't be further from the truth! The material vinyl windows are made of (PVC) is extremely strong and durable. They can protect your home from inclement weather including snow, storms, and heavy winds.
All-vinyl replacement windows have window frames and sash frames are made of extruded polyvinyl chloride (PVC). The same durable plastic polymer used to manufacture countless building products, including plumbing pipes, electrical wire insulation, exterior house trim, siding, and doors.
sagging. Unlike wood, which is more rigid, vinyl has the tendency to sag over time. This warping is a cosmetic blemish as well as a potential cause for the window to become inoperable. If the frame sags, operable windows may bind or jam.
Vinyl windows aren't as durable as wood windows, but they can last over 20 years. A quality vinyl window will also save you money on energy bills because the insulation in the frame of the window itself is energy efficient. Additionally, vinyl windows require no maintenance because they never need painting or scraping.
Vinyl Windows
Yes, replacing worn out windows with vinyl ones does boost a home's value, as long as the window installation is done the right way. When they sell, homeowners can recover as much as 71 percent of the upfront remodeling cost of new windows.
On average, vinyl windows last between 20-40 years. Their life expectancy depends on the climate and conditions you live in. For instance, if your windows are exposed to harsh sunlight for extended periods of time, the vinyl will break down faster and their lifespan will be closer to 20 years.
And though all windows expand and contract with temperature changes, vinyl expands more than twice that of wood. It expands seven times farther than glass with each degree of temperature. This can cause the seal between the vinyl framework and the glass to fail.
Vinyl windows are toxic to the environment.
Con: Vinyl windows are made through a toxic petroleum manufacturing process and are harmful to the environment once they are discarded. Manufacturing vinyl requires polyvinyl chloride (PVC), which forms the toxic carcinogen dioxin when PVC is manufactured and burned.
Vinyl Windows
Vinyl replacement windows are about 20-percent cheaper than wood windows, according to Remodeling's Cost vs. Value Report.
Vinyl window frames can sometimes soften, warp, twist, and bow if heat builds up become excessive.
A PVC window is typically constructed from the most high-quality vinyl which will provide you with the greatest protection against all of the common weather elements experienced in the area. In fact, unlike many common window styles, PVC doesn't produce condensation and will never rot or mold when exposed to moisture.
Yes. If your windows are more than 20 years old it is probably time to start thinking about replacing the lot. Many professionals agree that if homeowners can afford it, they are better served by replacing all their windows in one order. The installation team can complete the full job in a couple of days.
Cheap vinyl windows won't last long, but quality vinyl windows typically last 20 years or longer, with some lasting as long as 50 years.
Buying the least expensive window or door for your home is never the best thing to do. They are usually cheap for a reason. In my opinion, it is well worth the extra cost to receive the increased value you receive for an energy efficient PVC or aluminum/clad window unit versus a vinyl replacement window.
Look for any stickers, etchings or other markings that indicate the maker's brand name. Next, visually examine the window glass in each corner, looking for any etched letters or numbers. This string of text may look like a written code.
Aluminum windows are generally thin-framed, so most of the window is the glass pane. On the other hand, vinyl windows usually mimic traditional window frame features, though they come in a wide variety of colors and finishes so you can get a traditional style with a modern color.
Wood windows require more maintenance than vinyl windows. Wood should be re-painted or re-stained every 3-4 years to help protect them from the elements. Unlike wood windows, vinyl windows require very little upkeep and maintenance after they're installed because they never need to be re-painted or re-stained.