How to Choose the Best Vinyl Windows for Your Home

Vinyl windows are a great addition to any home. That’s because vinyl is durable and has its color sunk directly into the material, meaning it resists fading. If you want to replace your current windows with a vinyl upgrade, here’s what you need to know.

Check Your Current Windows

If you currently have wood, metal or vinyl windows, then your home is a candidate for vinyl replacement windows. Once you’ve covered that base, the next thing to consider is whether your home is in a historic district that restricts the use of certain materials. If you know vinyl is allowed in your neighborhood, then you’re ready for the final step.

It’s important to determine if you have “prime windows” or something more standard. A skilled contractor can evaluate this distinction, so be sure to ask when you schedule an in-home visit. This is important because many home insurance providers will not cover damage due to improper installation, which is what happens if you replace a prime window with a standard one.

Know Each Window Piece

Every aspect of a window is important, whether for general longevity, energy efficiency or aesthetic appeal. These are the components you should pay the most attention to:

• Frame joint
• Glass
• Screens
• Hardware

When it comes to how the window materials are joined, make sure your contractor uses welded windows instead of ones joined by screws. Welded vinyl windows keep their shape better during installation, preventing gaps where drafts may develop.

The kind of glass and screen you choose depends on your local weather conditions and your household pets. Insulated glass is good for areas with extreme temperature swings, while a screen that is metal instead of fiberglass is best for homes with cats.

Replacing your current windows with vinyl windows is a great investment, as long as it’s done properly. When you take time to check your existing windows and the material components for your new windows, the result lasts longer.