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The Advantages of Vinyl Replacement Windows
If your current windows don’t
aren’t attractive, let too much outside noise in, are costing you too much
money on your heating and cooling bills, or simply don’t work well any
longer, you’re probably considering replacement windows. Replacement windows
are a great investment – they can increase your home’s value and reduce your
energy costs. Vinyl replacement windows offer a further advantage: they’re
extremely low maintenance, so you can enjoy all the advantages of
replacement windows and reduce the time you spend on home upkeep. And, most
homeowners can tackle the project on their own without needing to hire a
contractor or carpenter.
Another advantage of vinyl replacement windows is their cost: most vinyl
windows cost at least 10% to 20% less than a comparably-sized, high quality
wood window. (That’s not always the case if the wood window is designed to
be painted – less expensive wood windows use lower grades of wood with more
“splices” to keep costs down.) For example, you can buy a white 36” by 38”
American Craftsman insulated vinyl replacement window with “low-e” (more
energy efficient) glass for under $120. Once it’s installed it will never
require painting – and if your house has old, drafty windows, you’ll
instantly save money on your energy bills, too.
How do vinyl replacement windows stack up against other types of replacement
windows? There are pros and cons to each type, so let’s take a look:
Wood Replacement Windows: Wood windows are attractive and can add warmth and
character to your home. On the other hand, wood replacement windows require
periodic maintenance like scraping, sanding, painting, and staining. They
can also warp, bow, or crack over time if they’re not properly maintained,
especially in harsher climates.
Aluminum Replacement Windows: Aluminum replacement windows are extremely
durable. They typically aren’t energy efficient, however, conducting heat in
the summer and cold in the winter. They also can be difficult to install;
most homeowners don’t have the skill and experience to install them
properly. Due to their relatively poor energy efficiency aluminum
replacement windows are more popular areas with temperate climates.
Vinyl Replacement Windows: Vinyl replacement windows come in a variety of
styles and finishes – some even have a wood-grain texture that simulates
painted wood. They’re easier to install than aluminum windows, and if you
intended to paint your replacement windows, they’re as attractive as wood
windows – without the hassle of periodic painting.
A wide variety of manufacturers make vinyl replacement windows. You can find
windows made by major manufacturers like Andersen, Pella, American
Craftsman, and Marvin at home centers like Home Depot, Lowe’s, and 84
Lumber, and Home Quarters. Many smaller window manufacturers also make vinyl
replacement windows – compare the features and specifications of their
windows to see if a window style they offer is right for you. Look for
manufacturers who offer long-term (or lifetime) warranties on the sashes,
frames, moving parts, seals, and glass. Many offer comprehensive warranties,
so when you’re comparing price, take the terms of the warranty into
consideration, too. Remember, any replacement window you buy should last for
years – make sure you’re protected if something goes wrong with your vinyl
replacement windows.
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