Vinyl Windows

If you’re building a new home, or simply need to replace the windows in your current home, you’re likely considering vinyl windows. Most of the windows installed in new homes today and most of the replacement windows put in older homes today are vinyl. Why? Well, here’s the rundown on why vinyl windows are the most popular choice today.

Vinyl windows never need painting or sealing.
Vinyl windows are less expensive than wood.
Vinyl replacement windows are more readily available than wood windows. (You’ll have a longer wait if you order wood replacement windows than vinyl.)
Vinyl replacement windows come in several levels of quality, so they’re suited for any budget. The more you can spend, however, the better window construction and energy efficiency you’ll get.

However, there are some disadvantages to vinyl windows too.

Vinyl windows cannot be painted. It’s important to understand that not only do vinyl windows not need to be painted; they actually cannot be painted. The chemicals in paint will weaken the vinyl structure of the window. So, once you pick a vinyl window color, you’re stuck with it for life.

Vinyl windows don’t have the look of wood windows. Vinyl windows have come a long way from their original days. However, even with the highest quality vinyl windows, the eye is not fooled. This however is becoming less of an issue with most home owners and home buyers. As more and more homes have vinyl windows installed, they have become the standard, so the look of wood windows is not as expected as it once was.

Many homeowners wonder about replacing their windows themselves, to save money. While it’s true that you can save a great deal of money by installing your vinyl windows yourself, there are some things you should know.

Vinyl replacement windows are not readily available to homeowners. Home improvement stores don’t carry vinyl replacement windows in stock. They must be special ordered, which takes some time and only a few window companies will sell direct to consumers this way.

There are some special tools and expertise needed for installing vinyl replacement windows. For example, windows require exterior cladding. This is a process by which the window installers wrap your exterior trim with aluminum that matches the windows to give you a tighter weather steel. Cladding requires knowledge of working with aluminum and the right tools. So, unless you have the tools and have done the work before, it’s probably best to leave replacement window installation to the pros.

Adding replacement windows to your home will add value, energy efficiency and an updated look regardless of whether you choose vinyl or other materials.