Benefits of Vinyl Windows From Your CT Contractor
When you’ve decided that the time is right to install replacement windows, there is a multitude of other decisions you face as well. Do you choose picture windows or casement windows? White or gray? Wood, vinyl or metal?
The material you choose is actually one of the most important decisions you’ll make when deciding upon new replacement windows. Every window has its pros and cons, but thankfully one rises above the rest. Vinyl replacement windows have recently become the most popular choice for homeowners, and not for a lack of reason.
Maintenance & Durability: Vinyl windows’ low-maintenance factor is one of the main reasons homeowners are opting for them over wood or metal windows. All they require is an occasional wipe-down with a warm water and soap solution. Vinyl windows are also extremely durable and have the highest lifespan of any other window material, one that lasts for decades. This is due to their ability to better resist the elements, which means that you will not find any rotting, chipping, peeling, corrosion, fungus growth or condensation. Additionally, because vinyl windows do not need to be painted or stained, there is minimal peeling, cracking, warping or fading. Best of all, vinyl replacement windows are typically reinforced by a steel frame, making it scratch-free and burglar resistant.
Energy Efficient: Vinyl replacement windows are extremely effective insulators for your home, thanks in large part to its low U-factor. A U-factor score measures the heat loss or gain through a material, so the lower the value, the greater the window’s resistance is to heat flow and the higher its insulation. Additionally, vinyl windows commonly include two or three panes of glass, has a low-e coating and multiple insulation glazes. These features provide better thermal protection for your home while keeping the heat in during the winter months and increasing the effectiveness of your AC in the summer. Moreover, vinyl windows are recyclable so that when you eventually replace them, they can be reused to make new resources. When you add all of these benefits together, vinyl replacement windows easily meet all of Energy Star’s eco-friendly criteria, which qualifies you for federal tax credits.
Fire Resistance: Most homeowners generally assume that because vinyl is a plastic-based material, it will only help spread a fire if one should occur. However, vinyl is made of Poly Vinyl Chloride (PVC) and that component of chlorine actually improves vinyl’s performance in a fire. The chlorine acts to decrease your home’s ignitability and flammability and is self-extinguishing once the source of the heat is removed.
Variety: Vinyl replacement windows can be easily custom-made to fit your home’s d’cor and style. This means that you have limitless color options, design choices and style preferences to choose from.
Price: Vinyl is among the most affordable type of replacement windows that you will find in today’s industry and market. Its easy installation decreases the labor costs you pay at first, and its low-maintenance requires less repair costs in the future. Again, they will also save you money on your utility bills because of their increased energy efficiency. Essentially, you are paying much less for vinyl windows compared to wood or metal, but are receiving much more benefits from them.
Think your home could benefit from vinyl replacement windows? Fiderio & Sons would be happy to help you out with any of your home improvement needs! Visit our showroom in Meriden or download our FREE guide, “How to Increase the Value of Your Home.”
