Choosing new windows can be an overwhelming process. There are numerous pages of information and opinion on design, energy efficiency, tax incentives, construction, maintenance and costs. It can be very difficult to sort the good information from the bad. Our primary mission here is to provide you with basic information that is easy to understand and that can help you to make the right decision for your circumstance. There is no "one window" that is right for every situation. We want you to be informed so that we can help guide you with our experience and expertise. To achieve success, we work closely with each client to understand the unique challenges and concerns involved in their unique project. We will help you find the right replacement window for your home.

Vinyl Window Characteristics

Energy Efficiency -Very high efficency. Does not transfer heat and cold which reduces condensation. Best value.

Durability - Resistant to scratching. Can be dented or cracked under some circumstances. Does not fade or corrode.

Strength - Not as strong as other materials. Should not be used for large spans without metal reinforcement.

Appearance - Many different architectural extrusions. Interior wood grain application for most major brands.

Colors - Standard White, Tan, Stone. Color is throughout frame. No dark colors due to heat issues. Exterior can be painted from the MFG but increases the cost substantially.

Maintenance - Very low. Simple cleaning. No painting, staining or sealing. Water and insects generally do not compromise.

Typical Cost - Lower Range $400 - $500 installed.

 

 

Other Things to Consider

Only 10% of your new window will be made out of the material you select. The other 90% of the window is made up of glass. Glass is the weakest link in the insulation value of your home. Vast improvements have been made over the years to minimize exposure and loss. Efficient windows are built around insulated glass units often referred to as "IG's". These IG's are much more effective than single pane glass because they have an air space (3/4" to 1" is most effective) between two separate panes, that acts as an additional thermal barrier, where air can circulate and slow down the process of heat and cold exchange. The space between the panes of glass can hold a dead air space or can be filled with higher performance gases such as argon or krypton to lower conductivity. The use of gas can add significant insulating benefits but will add to the initial cost of your purchase. Low-emittance "Low-E" coatings are thin layers of metallic oxide sprayed onto the inner surface of an IG. Low-E suppresses heat flow through the IG by reflecting radiant heat from the sun. The Low-E coating will reflect the heat and still allow visible light through the window. Most building requirements call for a single layer of Low-E coating to meet current codes and it is not considered an upgrade nor should it increase the cost of the window. Most window manufacturers do offer additional coatings of Low-E that can be applied for increased efficiency but can add to the cost of the window and decrease the amount of light coming into the home. Glass size is often left unspoken but with such a large investment you should never consider a window with single strength glass. Consumers often mistake the term IG (two panes of glass or double glazed) to mean the window has double strength glass (the actual thickness of each piece of glass). In my opinion, anyone attempting to sell a window with single strength glass should be dismissed immediately. For literally just a few manufacturing dollars difference the major portion (90%) of your investment is compromised. While the price may be enticing (they will probably be the lowest bid), the return on your investment will be significantly reduced. The cheaper glass not only performs less efficiently but is also much weaker and circumstances such as high winds, branches, hail and even simple house settling can lead to multiple window breaks. Cheaper materials usually means cutting corners on manufacturing. Cheap materials and low manufacturing quality will most likely lead to future problems. In my experience cheap windows almost always come with unqualified and sub-par installation. Save yourself from an easily avoided mistake by asking the right questions about your glass package.

 

Additional Suggestions

Never purchase a window that you can not look at first. Most window manufacturers make several lines of windows. The quality and construction of these lines vary a great deal. Just because you are quoted a Jeld-Wen, Simonton, Anderson, Pella, Showcase, Masonite or Ply Gem does not mean that you are being quoted their best window or even a good window for that matter. Know the series of the window and ask where it fits into their product line up. There are also many great, but less advertised, manufacturers that have exceptional windows that they have been producing for decades. Do not be fooled by a brand name or fancy brocure. Always look at, touch, feel and compare products to make sure you are getting a quality window.

 

 

Compare other window materials:

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Click Here for our Storm Window Page.
Click Here for our Wooden Window Page.