Hynes Home Construction and Remodeling – Blogs

Vinyl windows are on the rise as new construction requires them. When homeowners or businesses decide to replace the existing windows, it opens up a host of choices. One of the factors is whether to stick with the vinyl or explore other options. Many may be considering aluminum or even fiberglass. Each option has specific advantages and disadvantages you should consider before making a final decision.

Advantages of vinyl windows replacement

1. Vinyl windows are waterproof and can be used in basements.
Vinyl windows are waterproof and can be used in basements. Vinyl is a prime material for window frames because it is very easy to clean. This can be especially helpful if your basement floods or has high humidity levels. Vinyl is also energy efficient, so it will keep your home warmer in the winter and cooler in the summer. Vinyl frames are very sturdy and come with an average of a 25-year warranty, which means less maintenance and upkeep costs over time.

2. Vinyl is lightweight, which makes replacing old windows easier
Vinyl window replacement is that they are very lightweight. This makes it easier for one to install the new windows, especially if you are replacing a large number of windows. The lighter weight also makes it easier to remove the old ones.

3. Durability. 
Vinyl window frames are extremely durable and can last a lifetime with proper maintenance. As long as you clean them regularly, they will continue to protect your home from the elements year after year.

4. Low-E coating 
Vinyl windows can be used in a wide range of climates, from extreme heat to extreme cold. The Low-E coating on vinyl blocks out heat, cold and noise so that you can enjoy your home even during the hottest summers or coldest winters.

5.  Energy efficiency
Vinyl windows are rated by Energy Star, which is the standard for energy efficiency. More expensive wood windows cannot compete with the energy efficiency of vinyl windows. Because they require less upkeep and maintenance than wood, vinyl windows also save you money on heating and cooling costs in the long run.

6. Insulation value
The polyvinyl chloride (PVC) used in making vinyl windows is extremely energy efficient and can insulate against sound and weather without the need for additional insulation around the exterior of your home.

Disadvantages of vinyl windows replacement

1. Expensive
Vinyl is more expensive than wood or fiberglass when comparing on a price per square foot basis. Vinyl windows replacement can cost between $50 and $200 more than wood or fiberglass windows replacement

2. Tough to Repair 
Vinyl windows are difficult to repair, because they do not have removable sashes like wood and fiberglass windows do. If a vinyl window breaks or becomes damaged, it must be replaced in its entirety, which can be costly.

3. Heat and Cold Leak
 Vinyl windows are especially vulnerable to heat and cold leaks. Due to the way they are made, they tend to crack at the top corners when exposed to extreme temperatures. They also have little insulation value and offer no protection against noise.

4. Poor Light Control
Vinyl windows do not block out much light when compared with wood and fiberglass windows. They allow a lot of natural light in during the daytime and the sun’s glare at night can make it hard to sleep comfortably in some rooms of your home.

Hope the above points will help you in the process of considering a vinyl window replacement for your home. If you’re looking for a local roofing contractor with the expertise and resources to offer window replacement services, vinyl siding services or fiber vinyl windows services then give us a call. We’re Hynes Construction as recognized for our experience of over four decades in the home improvement industry that sets the bar in quality, reliability and fair pricing.