Are the windows in your house giving you a hard time? Do they refuse to budge when you try to open them? If your windows are drafty in the winter, and fog up in the summer it’s time to replace them. While no one wants to redo their windows, sometimes it’s the best option. Consider replacement windows if you have damaged windows. But you may be asking, “How Long Will Vinyl Windows Last”?
If you need to lower your energy expenses, replacement windows can help. Windows are expensive. You want replacement windows that will last a long time. Before you buy anything, read this article. Let’s compare aluminum, fiberglass, and vinyl windows. You need to make an informed decision when replacing windows.
Modern manufacturing provides choices in frame materials, glazing, and installation. Today you can find windows in a variety of materials. These including vinyl, aluminum, fiberglass or composite. Let’s look at each type.
The most affordable type of replacement is vinyl windows. They can be half the price of similar wood-frame windows. Vinyl is very energy efficient. That’s because it has chambers inside the frame to trap air and boost insulation.
Manufacturers make vinyl windows to fit any size opening. They’re low maintenance since you never need to repaint them. But, there are fewer colors.
When you buy vinyl, make sure the color is uniform throughout the frame. Choose windows with heat-welded joints over screws or fasteners. A custom order will take a few weeks for production and delivery.
A good quality vinyl window will last 30 years or longer.
Aluminum-frame windows are low cost and low maintenance like vinyl versions. The problem with aluminum-frame windows is the way the metal frame conducts heat. This means aluminum windows will lose more heat than vinyl or wood frames. They also are cold to the touch and predisposed to condensation.
If you live in a warm climate, aluminum-frame windows are suitable. If you choose aluminum, buy them with a thermal break in the frame. It’s a strip of plastic or rubber that separates the inside and outside of the frame. This limits heat conductivity.
Aluminum windows have a lifespan of about 20-25 years. That’s a good long life. You don’t have to worry about warped or rotten wood, but they aren’t indestructible. In fact, it’s easy to dent and ding aluminum windows.
It doesn’t take much to damage aluminum. They can also rust.
Fiberglass windows are the latest option for replacement windows. The material is like car bumpers. It’s strong and maintenance-free. It’s more energy efficient than vinyl windows.
The price falls roughly between vinyl and wood. A well-made fiberglass window can last up to 50 years.
On the downside, fiberglass windows are hard to customize. There are fewer color and hardware choices. You don’t have as many options as you do with wood or vinyl windows.
If you live in a sunny climate, note that fiberglass can turn chalky with extended exposure to UV rays. A positive aspect is the strong, stiff frame allows for thinner frames and sashes. This gives you a larger window area.
It wasn’t that long ago that windows in most homes were a single pane of glass. Single pane glass doesn’t use any insulation. It doesn’t keep out noise or seasonal temperatures. Single pane windows cost less, but you’ll pay more to heat or cool your home.
Today, homeowners prefer high-tech double glazing to reduce their energy costs. Double pane windows are more efficient. They have low-e coatings and inert gases that fill the space between the panes.
Low-e coatings stop heat loss. The newest coatings also stop heat gain in cooling situations. These coatings can add 10 to 15 percent to the initial cost of a window.
When shopping for replacement windows, look for the Energy Star label. This identifies the most energy efficient windows. Windows that meet requirements are more efficient.
You want a long-lasting, low maintenance, energy efficient windows for your home.
Choose a window style that matches your home. If your replacement windows don’t match they can ruin the appearance and resale value. Here are some rules to follow when choosing replacement windows for your home.
Traditional homes look best with traditional windows. Choose small double-hung windows with divided lights. The number of panes gives the window its name. For example, if there are six divided lights in each sash, it’s called six over six.
Choose a clean, sleek frame for a contemporary home. Large windows with metal frames match the aesthetic of a modern home.
If you live in a ranch-style home, consider windows without divided lights. Swing-out casement windows are a good match.
If you don’t like the type of windows in your home, ask a professional for advice. They can show how different styles look on different homes.
Do your research before you visit a showroom or home center. You’ll know what to expect and the choices won’t overwhelm you. The right windows save money, look good, and last for many years.
If you need help choosing replacement windows for your San Diego home, contact US Window & Door. We’re ready to help you find the best vinyl windows in San Diego.
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