Vinyl is a great alternative to wood for residential windows. Like wood, vinyl does not allow heat transfer between the home and the outdoors; thus, it can lower your home's heating and cooling load. However, unlike wood, vinyl does not rot or warp when exposed to moisture. This feature makes it suitable for areas with inclement weather. Vinyl requires proper care to last longer and withstand harsh conditions. Therefore, check out these three tips for achieving excellent performance with vinyl windows.
Invest in High-Quality Vinyl Framing
Poor-quality vinyl warps and gets discolored when exposed to extreme solar heat. It also cracks when hit by debris during a storm. Invest in high-quality vinyl frames to improve the performance of your new windows. Below are the features to look for in high-quality vinyl framing.
- Thick frame: Thick vinyl frames are sturdier and more durable than thin ones. They provide better insulation and perform excellently in inclement weather.
- UV inhibitors: Low-quality vinyl is prone to UV damage. Conversely, high-quality vinyl is treated with UV inhibitors that prevent the frame from fading or becoming brittle when exposed to the sun's rays.
- Frame reinforcements: Quality vinyl frames are reinforced with steel or aluminum to improve their sturdiness and resilience to harsh weather.
- Fusion-welded corners: Fusion welding is the process of joining two frames by heating them and bringing them together under pressure. This technique creates seamless and sturdy frame corners that are less likely to come apart over time.
Look for these features when buying new vinyl windows. Ensure the windows come with quality locks and latches to enhance the overall performance and appearance of the fixtures.
Opt for Laminated Window Glass
Laminated window glass is made by pasting polyvinyl butyral (PVB) resin between two layers of glass. The materials are bonded together using heat and pressure to create stronger glass than conventional float glass. Laminated window glass is ideal for residential windows for the reasons below.
- It prevents heat gain and loss through the window
- It provides excellent sound insulation properties
- It resists damage from impact by hail, flying debris, and burglary tools
Laminated glass does not shatter on impact. Instead, the PVB interlayer holds the glass together on impact, preventing it from breaking into sharp shards. This can significantly enhance safety around your windows.
Maintain Your Windows in Good Condition
Vinyl windows require proper care to maintain their appearance and functionality. Clean the windows regularly to remove dirt and grime. However, do not use harsh chemicals, as they can damage the vinyl. Lubricate the window hardware, including the hinges, locks, latches, and sliding tracks, to ensure smooth operation and prolong the life of the windows.
You must install your vinyl windows properly to achieve excellent performance and durability. Contact a vinyl window installation contractor for professional installation services.