As society shifts towards a more energy efficient and cost cutting mentality, one of the many changes that homeowners are wisely looking toward is replacing your old windows with vinyl windows. But, before you consider replacing your windows with any material it is important to understand the reasons why you should opt for vinyl windows and what to expect after replacement is completed.

What are Vinyl Windows?

Vinyl windows are constructed differently from most other residential windows, as vinyl, or advanced polymer, is used for the framing of these traditional glass windows. When compared to traditional windows, vinyl windows are a rather new science as they have only been commonly installed in homes since the late 1990s. Unlike other window materials on the market, vinyl does not warp with time, is self-lubricated for easy sliding and there is no swelling with varying outdoor temperatures. Vinyl windows are appropriate for homes in cold climates to those in high heat or tropical environments, especially as they are known for their insulative capabilities.

Understanding the Many Benefits of Vinyl Windows

Replacing your current windows with vinyl windows has a number of benefits for a homeowner, which is perhaps why most homeowners are making the change. Take a look at some of the many benefits this replacement can offer homeowners:

• Noise reduction
• Energy Efficiency
• No maintenance for the life of the window
• Full screens
• East access for cleaning
• Safety lock options for children
• Tough vinyl for durability
• No painting required

When compared to other materials of windows on the market, vinyl windows certainly have a lot to offer homeowners, and it is evident why more and more homeowners are replacing their old windows with vinyl.

Vinyl Windows and Your Wallet

Perhaps one of the greatest benefits for a homeowner who replaces their windows with vinyl is the fact that the cost savings is high and the cost of installation is rather affordable. While the amount that you pay for your vinyl window installation can vary based on a number of factors, it is smart to get an idea of the average cost associated with purchasing and installing this type of window. The price you pay will factor in a number of charges, most importantly the price of materials and the cost of installation for your home. The best way to gain a clear understanding of how much replacing your home windows would be is to seek a professional estimate, which most companies will offer for free.

But, as you take money out of your wallet to pay for your new vinyl windows, you can feel confident that the savings on your energy bill are going to eventually pay for their installation. Some homeowners noted that they saw more than a 10% decrease on their energy bills year round simply by replacing their windows. And, when you couple this energy saving technique with others, your savings can only continue to increase!

Some Considerations to Keep in Mind

Before you call up a professional window installation company to start reaping all of the aforementioned benefits, you want to keep some considerations in mind. You are going to want to be a little picky about the windows and frames that are installed in your home, so keep the following in mind:

• Characteristics of the vinyl to be installed – It is important for a homeowner to recognize that there are a number of different grades of PVC that can be used in vinyl windows. Some poor quality PVC windows will have a bluish tint to them, so you will want to look for vinyl windows that have pure white color and have a certification from the American Architectural Manufacturers Association.
• Construction of the frame – In order to determine if your window frame is quality you want to look at it from a cross section angle in order to see the number of chambers that it has. The more chambers that a window frame has the higher quality it is and the less likely it is to deform from melting vinyl in the heat of the sun. Additionally, frames that are welded can actually react better with the PVC of your window to create a better seal.
• Design of the windows – You will also want to consider the age and style of your home so that you can pair the right vinyl windows with it. Remember that your windows should be aesthetically fitting to your home if you want to add value to it, choosing the wrong window design or even finish color can cause your home to actually lose value and become an eyesore.
• R-value of the windows – Lastly, and perhaps most importantly, you are going to want to learn about the Energy Ratings of your windows.  The quality of glass and the insulation properties are used to determine the ER rating of a window. Don’t be afraid to ask your installation professional what the Energy Rating of a window is before you choose it.

Remember that not all windows are created the same and that you are going to want to be sure you are working with a reputable installer who can help you to make smart installation and aesthetic decisions for your home. If an installer cannot answer your questions and doesn’t have the best interests of your home in mind, then perhaps it is best to select another installation company that can meet your needs.

As you can see, there is no better time to replace your windows with vinyl ones, especially if you want to improve the energy efficiency of your home and add resale value as well.  Though replacing your windows is an investment, it is one that you will certainly be able to look back on and be pleased with…and your wallet will thank you too!