Do vinyl windows hold up?

Vinyl is durable and won't rust or corrode. That means you'll save even more money in the long run on maintenance and repair. To that end, these windows are scratch-resistant. Their element-resisting nature means this option lasts longer than others.

What is the downside of vinyl windows?

A leading complaint from homeowners is that vinyl window frames are too bulky. Because this material is not as strong and durable as fiberglass and aluminum, the manufactures have to use more of it in frame construction.

How well do vinyl windows hold up?

Both vinyl and fiberglass tend to outlast wood, as they don't rot or decay from moisture or insect damage, but fiberglass is the hardiest choice. A high-quality vinyl window will last around 30 years, while its fiberglass counterpart can still be gracing your home more than 50 years after installation.

How reliable are vinyl windows?

Vinyl windows aren't as durable as wood windows, but they can last over 20 years. A quality vinyl window will also save you money on energy bills because the insulation in the frame of the window itself is energy efficient. Additionally, vinyl windows require no maintenance because they never need painting or scraping.

Do vinyl windows crack?

Vinyl has some great characteristics that make it the perfect choice for windows. Vinyl is naturally a good insulator, which means that there is little to no heat and cold transfer through the window frame. The color in vinyl is actually part of the vinyl itself, so it will not warp, crack or fade.

7 Problems With Vinyl Windows

Should I avoid vinyl windows?

Environmental Issues. Vinyl windows are made of PVC. This material out-gases, which means it breaks down into chemicals that some people can be sensitive to. If you have a fire, the PVC can release harmful fumes when it burns.

Do vinyl windows go yellow?

Will the Vinyl Crack or Fade? They used to be a low-maintenance default when it came time to replace leaky or rotting wood double-hungs. But, over time, white vinyl could yellow, colored vinyl wash out, and the material itself split or crack in extreme temperatures.

Do vinyl windows warp over time?

FALSE: Vinyl Windows Warp

It's extremely durable and used in a wide range of building materials, including PVC pipes. It won't warp, no matter how high temperatures climb or how much sun your home gets. Vinyl windows won't warp when exposed to moisture, either.

How long do cheap vinyl windows last?

Cheap vinyl windows won't last long, but quality vinyl windows typically last 20 years or longer, with some lasting as long as 50 years.

What type of window lasts the longest?

What is better vinyl or wood windows?

If you're looking for a low-maintenance and cost-effective option, vinyl windows are best. If you want to change the color of your windows from year to year, wood windows are the better option. Either way, both vinyl and wood windows will give you the energy efficiency you and your home needs.

Do vinyl windows decrease home value?

Vinyl Windows

Yes, replacing worn out windows with vinyl ones does boost a home's value, as long as the window installation is done the right way. When they sell, homeowners can recover as much as 71 percent of the upfront remodeling cost of new windows.

Why are fiberglass windows better than vinyl?

Fiberglass windows are up to eight times stronger than vinyl, which means they generally last longer. A good quality vinyl replacement window can last up to 30 years or more, while fiberglass windows can last 50 years or more. The reason fiberglass replacement windows are stronger and more durable is due to its makeup.

Are vinyl windows a good investment?

Replacement Windows Offer a High Return on Investment

If you are on a tighter budget, vinyl frames are the way to go. They are cheaper and offer comparable energy efficiency to fiberglass and composite frames. They are also much more durable than wood.

What is the advantage of vinyl windows?

The benefits of vinyl windows include: Strong and durable – vinyl windows do not require painting or staining, and modern advances in vinyl windows minimize peeling, cracking, warping, and fading. With basic maintenance, new vinyl windows will last for decades.

How long do double pane vinyl windows last?

On average, vinyl windows last between 20-40 years. Their life expectancy depends on the climate and conditions you live in. For instance, if your windows are exposed to harsh sunlight for extended periods of time, the vinyl will break down faster and their lifespan will be closer to 20 years.

How often do vinyl windows need to be replaced?

Most vinyl windows will last 15 to 20 years. Depending on materials and window quality, some windows can last 25 years or more. Often, double-pane window failure occurs when the thermal seal breaks, causing the window to fog.

How do you protect a vinyl window frame?

Paint the Frames.

Apply two coats of vinyl-safe paint to the surface, allowing the frames to dry completely in between coats. Make sure to paint in smooth, even strokes to prevent drips from forming. Use a razor blade to clean up any paint that may have gotten onto the glass.

What is the best material to use for replacement windows?

Durability: Fiberglass replacement windows are perhaps the strongest option available, known for their resistance to extreme temperature and also for their durability.

How much does it cost to replace vinyl windows?

The average double-hung vinyl window will cost you about $600 to $950 to replace and it's reasonable to expect to spend $100 to $300 per window on labor. A typical hourly rate for a window installer or contractor is about $40 per hour.

What causes vinyl windows to bow?

It is typically caused by the effects of heat buildup or dampness. The stress can cause the frame to shrink and expand as well. Be on the lookout for these common forms of window warping: Bowing along the face of the window is the most common type of warping.

What is the difference between vinyl and vinyl clad windows?

Vinyl windows require extra structural reinforcement to help strengthen their extrusions and reduce flexion. An Aluminum Clad-Wood extrusion has very little flexion and far out-performs Vinyl in its structural integrity. The difference is obvious.

Are there different grades of vinyl windows?

Building-grade vinyl windows generally have two to three internal chambers whereas premium grades have five, six or seven chambers offering superior energy efficiency. These higher end windows will also have polyurethane insulation in their frames.

Will vinegar damage vinyl windows?

Vinegar & Water:

There are a couple of different ways to clean your exterior vinyl windows; however, a safe route for a clean and non-abrasive cleaning solution is the old fashioned vinegar and water. Vinegar is a great all-purpose cleaner for almost any housekeeping project.

How much is a vinyl window?

All of the best window manufacturers sell vinyl replacement windows as they are a very popular option amongst homeowners. The average price for a standard size vinyl window can range from as low as $125 to $386 per window, without installation.