For many homeowners, vinyl windows are an affordable alternative to more expensive window options. When buying new windows for your home, you may be asking yourself about vinyl window replacement, right? Let’s consider all the benefits and the ease of replacement. Owning a house with long lifespan windows will increase the value of your house and prevent earlier replacements that may cost you a lot of money. This article will help homeowners understand how long their windows can last and what to expect from new and existing vinyl windows.
Some advantages of vinyl windows
Energy efficient
The insulating properties of vinyl make vinyl windows a kind of window, which is very energy-efficient.
Durable
Vinyl windows have excellent durability. The windows will not fade, blister, or peel. You will never have to sand or paint the exterior of the window.
Maintenance
Vinyl windows do not require a lot of maintenance. Usually, only a simple cleaning can make them look brand new again.
The life expectancy of vinyl windows
The average life expectancy of vinyl windows Most vinyl windows have an average life expectancy of between 30 years on average depending on where you live. Windows installed in areas exposed to the sun most of the day will not last that long, probably around 20 years. Heat can also cause windows to age, so hot climates may require windows to be replaced more frequently. Humid air areas, especially areas without too much sunlight, will gradually damage the windows by water and harmful microorganisms. On the other hand, windows installed in areas where these conditions are not present can have a much longer life than average, you’re looking at up to 35 years. In addition, homeowners who are careful to keep their windows in good condition can expect their investment to have a longer life expectancy.
The warranty on vinyl windows
When selecting the available window options, an important consideration is the manufacturer’s warranty period for its windows. Even if the owner does not intend to use the warranty, the window warranty time provided by the manufacturer can highly indicate the expected life of the window. Most vinyl window manufacturers have a warranty period of more than 15 years, and some offer a warranty period of up to 25 years. However, these warranties usually have clauses that wait for the owner to exercise reasonable care before they can honor the warranty. Windows that are poorly maintained, affected by bad weather, or broken due to deliberate damage are usually not covered by the manufacturer’s warranty.
Tips on extending life expectancy
Fortunately, homeowners can extend the life expectancy of their windows through simple routine maintenance. Homeowners with poor windows should cover the windows with a protective sealant to prevent depreciation. Windows exposed to strong ultraviolet light should be shielded to prevent cracking. Cleaning your windows twice a year and following the recommended cleaning instructions is usually adequate to keep vinyl windows durable in the future.
Compared to metal windows
Aluminum is the most popular type of metal window and its lifespan is about the same as vinyl. Aluminum windows have a lifespan that is anything from 20 years up to 25 years. The problem with aluminum is that it is easily damaged. If your area is prone to severe weather conditions such as hurricanes or hail, your aluminum windows may need to be replaced more frequently than usual.
Another problem that affects aluminum instead of vinyl is rust. Aluminum windows will not rot like wood, but they are prone to rust over time.
Compared to wooden windows
The simple answer is that wooden windows are not necessarily better than vinyl, because it depends on what you are looking for.
For example, if life expectancy is important to you, you would prefer vinyl windows that last longer. Although we have determined that vinyl windows can last up to 30 years, the useful life of wooden windows is about 15 to 20 years.
Compared to fiberglass windows
Fiberglass is another durable option for windows, but it certainly has some advantages and disadvantages. Fiberglass windows can last up to 50 years in some cases. But unsurprisingly, a larger initial investment is needed than with vinyl windows.
Fiberglass windows are not as readily available as vinyl and can be more difficult to install. This translates to a higher cost of installation.
Finally, if you are on a budget, fiberglass windows are a good option. But most people will be swayed by the longevity of vinyl, and that’s why it is worth considering.
