Shopping for vinyl windows can sometimes be an overwhelming process. With tons of customizable features, overall benefits, and distinctive characteristics, it can be easy to get lost in the details. To help you make the best choice for your home and family, here are 5 tips on shopping for vinyl windows.
1. Get The Most From Quality Materials
When it comes down to it, the quality of your vinyl is the foundation of your investment. Here are a few things to look out for when shopping for the best quality vinyl.
The extrusions for the sash and framing of your new vinyl windows should be welded to ensure durability and performance. They should also have multiple interior air chambers for added rigidity and strength. This also ensures superior insulation benefits.
2. The Truth About Glass
The quality of glass you choose for your vinyl replacement windows will greatly affect the performance of your windows. For the maximum insulation benefits, your vinyl windows should have multiple panes of glass, with an inert gas between them. This will maximize the insulating effect of your vinyl windows. Adding a quality Low-E coating to your glass will help minimize temperature transference while protecting your belongings from fading in the UV rays.
3. Well-Written Warranty
While we never plan for things to go wrong, but sometimes it happens, making your warranty essential. When shopping for vinyl windows, it’s important to carefully consider your warranty. The best coverage includes a double lifetime warranty. This will cover any issues with the performance of your windows such as condensation accumulation between the panes of glass. If you ever decide to sell your home, this type of coverage is transferable to the new owner.
4. Vinyl Windows with Star Qualities
When shopping for vinyl windows, you want to make sure to look for an Energy Star-qualified product. This verifies that the efficiency and air tightness claims on the performance of potential vinyl windows are verified by the National Fenestration Rating Council.
Other vinyl window products may contain the Gold Seal Certification from the American Architectural Manufacturers Association. This means the product was subjected to strict structural-integrity testing and passed by meeting or exceeding these standards.
5. Consider Care Plans
When shopping for vinyl windows, it can be easy to start adding customization options. However, it’s important to consider how you plan to care for these windows over the years.
Most products on the market only require a gentle cleaning with a mild soap and water mixture to keep color saturation and natural beauty. Special consideration should be taken if you have more than many levels or especially large windows.
Double-hung vinyl windows with tilt-in features are the easiest of all products to clean, without the need for climbing a ladder.
Always Compare Quotes
Most of all, be sure to take a bit of time to compare quotes. Comparing quotes from local professionals is the only way to ensure you make the right choice. When you compare quotes, you get more than just a feel for the current pricing trends in your region. You also get some expert input on your unique circumstances that will ensure you make the right choice and a rate that fits your budget.