The Perfect Basement Apartment

If your windows are old, it may be time to consider replacing them, but there are many different options to consider. Vinyl windows are a popular choice thanks to their great price and many benefits. However, before you run out and purchase new vinyl windows, check out these five important facts to help you determine if they are right for your home.

Vinyl Windows Offer Great Durability

Metal windows, such as aluminum tend to offer more durability than vinyl windows, but that doesn't mean vinyl windows are weak. They can withstand the weather quite well and have many benefits over metal windows. Unlike metal, vinyl is not prone to rust or corrosion, and unlike wood, it isn't susceptible to rotting and chipping. They also withstand scratches quite well, and even if it does get scratched, you can't usually tell because the frame is the same color throughout.

They Can Help Lower Your Monthly Energy Bills

Vinyl isn't conductive, which means it stops the transfer of heat. Therefore, vinyl windows do a better job of keeping hot air inside or outside your house. Metal is conductive, so more heat can pass right through the window. Plus, vinyl window frames are larger than metal, adding extra insulation. On the downside, the vinyl's energy effectiveness can degrade. Vinyl expands and contracts as it gets hot and cold. If it stretches too far, it can pull away from the caulk, causing air leaks, which allow your energy to slip away.

They Don't Require Much Maintenance

Thanks to its great durability, vinyl windows don't require much maintenance to keep them looking new. You don't have to worry about painting or stain to protect against the elements. Vinyl windows are often white, however, so they can get dirty easily. To wash them, simply use a hose or pressure washer. While vinyl isn't prone to the same dangers as wood and metal, it is prone to mold and mildew, especially in shady areas. It's important to examine your windows routinely and clean away any mold or mildew you find.

Vinyl Windows Are an Affordable Option

It seems like whenever something boasts energy-efficient benefits, the cost skyrockets. However, that isn't the case with vinyl windows. They are actually one of the least expensive window options available. The price varies depending on the type of window (double hung, sliding, etc.), but for a typical sliding window, you can expect to pay between $575 and $775 per window. Once installed, you won't have to worry about replacing them anytime soon either because they can last up to 40 years.

You Can't Change Their Appearance

On the one hand, you don't have to paint your vinyl windows, but on the other hand, you can't paint your vinyl windows. This can prove to be bothersome if you decide to repaint your house and realize that white windows no longer work. Vinyl simply can't absorb paint, so you're stuck with the color you originally chose. Vinyl is also prone to fade, and since you can't paint it, you'll have to replace the vinyl if you want to fix it. In addition, no matter how you look at it, vinyl looks like plastic, and you can't really disguise it to look like metal or wood, making it a poor option for some home styles, such as Victorian.

Vinyl windows definitely have their pros and cons.  They aren't perfect for every home, but they are inexpensive, energy-efficient, durable and easy to maintain. If you think vinyl windows are the best option for your home, contact a window provider in your area today to get a quote on window replacement for your entire home.