Many homeowners opt for vinyl replacement windows over wood windows because they require very little maintenance, cost less and look quite nice (but let’s face not nearly as beautiful as wood frames). There is a huge range of quality, product lines and options when it comes to vinyl replacement frames — certainly one of the reasons that vinyl accounts for roughly half of the replacement window market.
Basics of Vinyl Replacement Windows
Vinyl is made out of polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. This material can be made to look like wood, without the many drawbacks that go along with wood window frames. If you look very closely, you may be able to tell the difference between wood and vinyl windows, but from the street, they have the same curb appeal. One big benefit to vinyl, however, is that the color is baked into the PVC material during the manufacturing process, so there is no need to keep painting or staining it to keep it looking as good as the day you installed the windows.
The Cost of Vinyl Windows
Expect to pay $300 to $700 for vinyl windows, which includes the price of installation. On average, window installation costs are $125 per window. Vinyl replacement windows account for 50% of the market, making vinyl the premier window replacement option in America. The prices below are what actual customers paid for vinyl replacement windows. Discover more on vinyl window prices.
Advantages Of Vinyl Replacement Windows
There are numerous benefits to these replacement windows including cost, durability, energy efficiency and maintenance requirements. When it comes to aesthetics, most vinyl window products are made to resemble wood, and while they may not pass the “impostor test” upon close inspection, the general look of the windows is enough to fool most people.
Durability
Vinyl replacement windows are very durable and long lasting. The vinyl will not warp, split or crack the way wood can. It will also not be prone to water and insect damage the way wood often is. Since the color is incorporated directly into the vinyl during the manufacturing process, any scratches or small dents or dings will not be noticeable because the color goes throughout the whole product. Wood, on the other hand, can rot or deteriorate over time.
Low Maintenance
There’s not much to do when you have vinyl replacement windows. No painting, staining or sealing is necessary. All you need to do is wash your windows once in awhile to keep them clean and looking good. Wood requires periodic painting, staining and sealing and may also require you to deal with insect or water damage, splintering, and more. Not only will the maintenance free characteristics of vinyl windows save you lots of time, but they will also save you money over the years. Read more on how to maintain home windows.
Energy Efficiency
Vinyl does not settle as much as other window materials, so there will be less chance for air leakage. This makes the windows an energy efficient option. Years ago, vinyl windows were known to have thermal expansion problems which caused air leakage and made the windows an inefficient option, but new technology has alleviated those problems in modern day vinyl replacement windows. The windows are also available with many energy efficient options, such as gas fills, low-e coatings, and more.
Value
Replacement windows installation can add to the value of your home, increasing the potential resale value when it’s time to sell. In the meantime, you can reap valuable benefits from your new replacement windows in the energy savings they provide.
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