The Case(ment) For Vinyl Windows

When it comes to replacing the windows in your home, you probably want to get it right the first time. Ideally you’d want to choose a material that is within your budget, long-lasting, aesthetically pleasing and requires little maintenance. Our Energy Star Certified Vinyl windows are all of that and more! We’re here to compare other material options that may have popped up in your hunt for the perfect windows.

Wood windows can be timeless and stunning but can get really expensive really quickly. It’s not just the initial price that will cost you, but the upkeep. You’ll  have to paint/stain/refurbish the wood to maintain and preserve that beautiful aesthetic over the years. They can provide great insulation but since they are made of wood, they are susceptible to rotting and warping over time resulting in their insulating properties fading. This is especially the case in humid and high moisture climates. You also have to consider how to combat insects/termites and other wood-damaging pests.

Aluminum is appealing to a lot of homeowners because of its strength and structural integrity, but at what cost? Since Aluminum is a metal material, it is more conductive and can transfer temperatures from outside directly into your home. That means the hot and humid air in the summer as well as the bone-chilling cold will be keeping you company year-round. They are not going to be your go-to for energy efficiency and your wallet will feel quite a bit lighter when it comes to paying your energy bill. Aluminum is also known to be susceptible to corrosion and is actually less air tight than other materials which makes them significantly lacking in the soundproofing department.

Fiberglass windows have been on the market for about 20 years and their biggest selling point is that they are long-lasting, low maintenance and provide excellent insulation. In reality, the difference in their performance vs. vinyl is not too noticeable except for the price. 

Contrary to popular belief, the insulating properties of fiberglass can actually deteriorate over time when exposed to direct sunlight. UV rays can cause the outer coating to fade which results in the fibers within “blooming.”  Prolonged UV exposure can also lead to this durable material warping. As far as color options, there are way less compared to vinyl. Even if you find a color that you like, you’ll have to make sure you find materials with a powder-coating to protect the window from UV rays causing the coloring to fade over time. Some fiberglass materials cannot be painted over, leaving you with bland frames all around.