When a person is searching for window replacements, it is very difficult to know where to begin as there are so many choices. Perhaps the most important decision one has to make is the type of material to use for the windows. One type of material that is often used in window replacements is vinyl. Despite these advantages, vinyl windows have significant shortcomings, which may be unknown to many people.
Now, let’s talk about the typical issues with vinyl windows, their durability, and what type of window is better to choose for the replacement.
1. Shorter Life Span
The vinyl material is sensitive to the sun, moisture, and other natural elements, making the windows age quickly, especially in extreme weather and temperatures.
2. Warping
Vinyl windows are prone to expanding and contracting with changes in temperature and humidity, and this leads to infiltration of air into the spaces around the window. This can not only hinder your window from closing and opening as it should, but it may cause warping as well. If a window is warped, the air seal will be an issue and may need to be re-caulked for proper functioning.
3. Energy Efficiency
In theory, the argon gas used in between the panes of vinyl windows Toronto is meant to make them energy efficient.
Unfortunately, since this material expands and contracts with such ease, this seal can easily become compromised. Both hot and cool air will be allowed into the home and out of the home, resulting in further energy consumption that can be costly.
4. Seal Failure
As is the case with many other issues that affect vinyl windows, seal failure can be attributed to the expansion/contraction of the material in extreme temperatures. While the frames and glass are constructed using vinyl, they do not expand and contract at the same pace, therefore leading to seal deterioration.
5. Lost Glass Area
Lost glass area will be an issue if you are seeking to swap your current wooden framed windows with vinyl. Usually, the old wood window will not be fully taken out during the replacement and therefore the vinyl window will be sized to fit the old window opening, which means that there will be a reduction in the glass area.
6. How Long Will Vinyl Windows Last?
On average, vinyl windows have a life expectancy of between twenty to forty years. However, those windows that are fitted in an area that is often close to the sun or those that are installed in an area where there is too much heat will not last as long.
Furthermore, areas with high humidity can reduce their lifespan with consistent exposure to water and hazardous microbes.
7. Are Vinyl Window Units Worth Installing?
Vinyl is one of the most common materials for window replacements. They are inexpensive and easy to maintain, and if the conditions for their use are favorable, they can be lost for their money. Vinyl windows Toronto are also ideal if you are operating under a tight budget.
However, because of the problems associated with them, they are not the best in terms of energy efficiency and durability.
8. The Perfect Substitute for Vinyl Window Units
The most suitable replacement for vinyl windows is fiberglass windows. They cost more to purchase initially, but they boast of longer life spans, increased durability, and energy conservation, which translates to lower costs in the future. Fiberglass windows can have a service life of up to 50 years, which is more than other options like vinyl, wood, or aluminum.
Fiberglass does not expand or shrink, and it does not conduct heat or cold because of its insulating properties. Fiberglass windows are approximately 15% better than vinyl as far as insulating your house and, therefore 30% less likely to create air space.
Moreover, fiberglass windows offer a great number of styles and colors because they can be easily painted according to the exterior design of the house. They are also famous for their ability to provide the look of wooden windows while having none of the issues that actual wooden windows have.
Fiberglass windows are a very good quality product with a very long time and very little need for maintenance which means they can add value to your house as well.
