Understanding Vinyl Windows Pros And Cons
Feb 14, 2022Custom Vinyl Replacement Windows Installation at the Best Price in Cincinnati
The greater Cincinnati area is growing continuously and its real estate market as well. For homeowners who live in Cincinnati and surrounding areas, there hasn’t been a better time to improve their homes with high-quality energy efficiency products. Although there are several home improvement products to choose from, vinyl replacement windows are one of the products with the highest equity increase ratio and energy efficiency paybacks for homes. However, there are a few things that homeowners in Cincinnati should know before making any decisions.
The Differences between Vinyl Replacement Windows
Vinyl windows have become increasingly popular for homes and businesses alike. They have durable frames, require minimal maintenance, and come in a variety of colors. However, they’re not eco-friendly, and they may leave you with less flexibility on future renovations. Today, we’ll be taking an in-depth look at the pros and cons of vinyl windows. That way, you can make an informed decision.
What Are Virgin Vinyl Windows?
A virgin vinyl window contains 100% new vinyl. Other vinyl windows are made of the same material, but it is reused vinyl. While reuse reduces environmental waste, it also lowers the window frame’s quality and durability.
New vinyl stacks up well against other windows. Wood windows have a natural aesthetic but don’t resist moisture as well, and Fiberglass delivers superior protection against air leakage but costs more. Vinyl provides a happy medium between the two that provides quality and value.
The Pros of Vinyl Windows
Energy Efficient
Vinyl is well-known as the most energy-efficient window material option. It excels at thermal resistance, helping to minimize heat transfer leading to lower utility bills. Not only will these windows save you money, but they will also reduce the stress on your heating and air conditioning systems once installed.
Cost-Effective
You don’t have to break the bank to get new windows. Vinyl delivers value and longevity without sacrificing appearance. If you maintain them properly, your new windows will last upwards of 40 years, one of the longest lifespans of any window type.
Easy and Cheap Installation
Vinyl installation is also among the most affordable options. The straightforward installation process only takes a few hours for skilled professionals. That way, you can get rid of your old windows and bring in the new ones, at the best price possible.
Maintenance-Free (Well, Almost)
Once a professional installs your new windows, you don’t have to pay them much attention. You won’t have to repaint the window frame or worry about rot and moisture damage. The low-maintenance design means that you can spend time on the important things in life. Just clean the glass from time to time, and you’re good to go.
Lots of Options
Vinyl windows have been around since the 1960s. Since then, we’ve seen an explosion in the styles, quality, and colors. Even if you purchase the cheapest frame, you won’t have to worry about repainting. The massive range of styles also makes it easy to find designs with everything from welded corners to insulated glass to double-hung windows.
Best Warranties
Most companies offer a lifetime guarantee with vinyl windows. You won’t find a promise like that with a wood or fiberglass window. If you have to sell your home, you can also use the lifetime guarantee as a selling point for potential buyers.
The Cons of Vinyl Windows
Environmental Impact
Manufacturers use chemical processes to produce new and recycled vinyl windows. While this approach has been the go-to method historically, we live in an eco-conscious era that demands more out of building materials. Since vinyl doesn’t come from a natural source, its manufacturing process impacts the surrounding environment.
Style Preference
While these windows are available in lots of styles, they don’t have the same customization options as some alternatives like wood windows. If you want windows that match your doors, roofing, and siding, you may want to consider a different option.
Variation in Quality
New vinyl windows come in three types: virgin, mixed, and recycled (more on this in a moment). While that provides consumers with more options, it also leads to variations in quality. If you want the sturdiest possible window replacement, look for virgin models.
They cost more than mixed or recycled frames but will maximize your energy savings. If you want to save as much money as possible, consider recycled vinyl. It’s more prone to warping and discoloration but comes at an unbeatable price.
Get in Touch
Looking for new windows? We can help. At Universal Windows Direct, we offer professional installation for all types of vinyl windows. Schedule a free consultation and find out why people across southwest Ohio trust us with their window replacements.
Frequently Asked Questions
Virgin Vinyl
Pure virgin vinyl serves as the first generation of vinyl windows. It doesn’t contain any recycled materials, making it the strongest and most durable of the three options. Unsurprisingly, it also costs more than mixed or recycled vinyl.
Recycled Vinyl
Some window manufacturers reuse recycled vinyl products to cut down on waste. While recycled vinyl windows aren’t as sturdy as first-generation models, they cost significantly less. You have to repair recycled parts every few years to avoid unwanted fading, warping, and cracking.
Mixed Vinyl
Mixed vinyl contains a blend of recycled and new vinyl. The amount of new vinyl in the frames will dictate the cost, with more new PVC indicating superior quality and energy efficiency.
