If asked to name three window manufacturers, which ones would recite? If you like many of our customer’s Pella and Anderson would make that list 9 out of ten times. Have you ever heard of Gorell, Simonton or Sunrise? Again if you’re like many of our window replacement customers the answer will be “no.”  The fact of the matter is, vinyl replacement window manufacturer’s use window replacement contractors like us to market their products. This is different than the larger manufacturers of wood windows because than spend a lot of money branding and marketing their products directly to home owners. Although these larger wood window companies do make other types of windows including vinyl and fiberglass, it is done to supplement their wood window business and is typically not their primary focus.

The fact of the matter is that although their names are not as recognizable vinyl windows dominate the replacement market currently and they have gained in new construction as well. I believe that the rise of vinyl windows has a lot to do with the pricing, availability and almost unlimited options that are now available.

Just like products in all industries there are good vinyl windows that will stand the test of time and then there are bad ones that may need to be replaced again making the right choice may be more expensive up front, but in the end can save a lot of money in the future. Just as you would with any large purchases home owners should make sure to research the manufacturer and the window replacement contractor before making their final decision.

Vinyl windows come in all shapes and sizes and are customized for each individual project. Double or single hung, casement, sliding, awning, bay, bow, garden, half-round or other specialty shapes are all available to meet your operation and design goals for your new windows. For a vinyl replacement project all openings will be measured and a window unit will be custom fit for best performance.

Vinyl windows can be inserted or the full frame can be replaced (like wood windows). For an insert installation the contractor will remove the operating pieces of the old windows and then use the exterior frame as their new rough opening. Then once the window is installed a trim piece called a “stop” will be used to finish installation.  This installation saves on material and labor because there is less involved with the overall installation and it will take less time.

There are many things to consider when replacing windows, but here are some of the basic differences:

Triple Pane vs Double Pane: Depending on location and how many windows and their configuration on your home it may be beneficial to upgrade for greater energy savings.  A typical double-pane window will have a Low/E coating and a gas fill of either argon or krypton. For triple-pane you will get a double Low/E application with a double gas fill. Depending on the window manufacturer the triple pane window will lower the U-factor by 10 to 20%. Simply put this means more energy savings.

Fusion Welded vs Mechanically Fastened: Fusion Welded is a process where all corners of the main frame and sashes are heated and then put together to create an air tight bond. For mechanically fastened frames screws are used to put the same corners together. Mechanically fastened frames can sometimes experience trouble over time with air infiltration due to the movement of the structure or the expansion and contraction of the unit itself.

Building Codes: Even when replacing windows it is important to make sure that building codes are met. For example there are many people that want to change their casement windows to double-hung windows, but it is important to discuss with the window replacement contractor because for rooms like bed rooms you have to have clearances for individuals to get out in case of fire and by shrinking the opening those clearance may not be met. Also window located in bathrooms by tubs or by swinging doors may need to be tempered glass so again it is beneficial to have this discussing when replacing your windows.

Options: The vinyl window market has developed over time and it seems that there are always new advancements coming out. It used to be that the choice for color was white or tan, but now you can get a variety of exterior and interior finish options. Wood grains on the interior can look like cherry, walnut or golden oak and with some manufacturers you can get almost any color on the exterior to match your design ideas. You can get grids or blinds in between the glass. You can get obscure or decorative glass from many window companies.

Warranties: There are many forms of warranties in the vinyl replacement window market. Leading manufacturer’s will offer lifetime or 50yr warranties that cover glass seal, frames, hardware and even glass breakage and that coverage will be non-prorated for the warranty period. This protection is also fully transferable to the next home owner as well. But there are other things to look out for as well. Although many times not stated by the window salesperson many of these warranties do not include labor when you actually read the document. This is why it is important to find a reputable window contractor who states that they will provide labor for free for any window warranty issue. Some are also prorated so it means that depending on when an issue might arise you may have out of pocket expenses in getting replacement parts. The best way to make sure you are getting exactly what you think is to ask to see the warranty in writing before the final selection.

Vinyl windows are a great option and although we didn’t cover everything hopefully this will help you gain some basic knowledge and when it comes time you will find a window contractor willing to compare the features and benefits of the variety of windows out there so you can pick the one that is best for your project.