3 Main Benefits of Installing Vinyl Windows

Windows are an important feature in every home — but certain windows are better than others. If you need a window replacement or you're building a new home and choosing which windows to install, vinyl windows are the way to go.

Vinyl windows have an interesting history. They were first introduced in Germany in 1954 due to wood shortages and increased aluminum prices. Their popularity rose dramatically over the next 20 years as their energy-saving benefits became more and more apparent. Today, vinyl is the second most-produced plastic worldwide and it's the most-used material in building projects.

Benefits of Vinyl Windows

But having an interesting background isn't what makes vinyl windows our top recommendation. You're probably asking, "Are vinyl windows good? Do they actually offer better benefits than other window materials?

They sure are, and they sure do. Vinyl window benefits are many.

Following are five of the best:

1. Energy Efficiency

Vinyl windows are best known for how energy-efficient they are. They are incredibly insulating, which results in less air flowing in and out of your home. They're also known for reducing heat transfer and light penetration, which allows the temperature of your home to stay more regulated. In fact, vinyl windows are far more energy-efficient than aluminum and wood windows when it comes to thermal protection. That means you end up reducing your energy consumption and reducing your energy bills at the same time.

2. Cost

Vinyl windows are incredibly cost-effective, especially when compared to other types of replacement windows. They're budget-friendly and easy to customize with different colors and styles, so you don't have to compromise on style when saving money.

3. Durability

One of the main reasons vinyl windows have remained so popular for over 50 years is because they're long-lasting and durable. They don't require staining or painting down the road, they don't rot or warp, they're weather-resistant, and they typically last over 20 years. They require very little maintenance and cleaning; all you need to do is wipe them down and they're good to go.

4. Environmentally Friendly

When you're ready to update your windows, your old vinyl windows can be recycled! Vinyl is different than other thermoplastics because it's melted and remolded into something — new without compromising its chemical makeup. As a result, it's energy-efficient and environmentally friendly not only in its ability to insulate and reduce energy consumption but also because of its makeup.

Are Vinyl Windows Better Than Wood?

Wood is another common material used for windows. While wood also has its benefits, vinyl windows still outrank wood windows. Wood windows might have the best longevity rate and are visually appealing, but vinyl windows are superior because they're more budget-friendly when it comes to material and installation, they are easy to install for those who are skilled in do-it-yourself projects, they are low maintenance, and they have a larger return on investment. Wood windows need to be replaced if they're damaged by weather, needs to be painted and stained regularly, and are pretty expensive.

Are Vinyl Windows Better Than Aluminum?

Another popular window material is aluminum. Aluminum and vinyl windows have a few of the same benefits: they're both durable and fit a wide variety of styles because they come in different colors and finishes. Vinyl windows differentiate themselves as a better choice, however, when you consider maintenance, cost, energy efficiency, and installation.

Aluminum windows are prone to condensation, so they need to be cleaned regularly to prevent mold and rust. It's also a heat conductor, which can cause your home to warm up quickly and make it harder to keep cool — something most of us try to avoid! Aluminum windows tend to be far more expensive than vinyl, too, costing at least 33% more.

So — are vinyl windows better than the other choices out there? While all materials have their own set of pros and cons, we believe that the benefits are using vinyl for your windows are far greater than those that come with using wood or aluminum. If you're ready to update your windows to vinyl, give us a call and get your free quote today!