Are Vinyl Windows Durable?
There are a few choices available to you when you are updating the windows in your home. Wood, aluminum, vinyl, and fiberglass are the most common options. But there is one type of window that is used significantly more than the others and that is vinyl. Despite knowing how popular they are, you may still have a few questions before you purchase them for your home. Often, the number one question people want an answer to is how durable they are. Keep reading to learn more about vinyl windows and how long you can expect them to last.
What Are Vinyl Windows?
Vinyl craft windows are made with a vinyl frame. They are actually made of PVC, which is the same material that makes PVC pipes. As you likely expect from its other uses, PVC is extremely durable. This is why it makes for a great window frame. When shopping for vinyl windows, you can expect to find them in all the standard window styles you are used to. This includes double-hung, single-hung, casement, and sliding windows.
When Did Vinyl Windows Come Out?
Vinyl windows first came out in 1954 thanks to a German manufacturer called Trocal. At the time, the material was considered experimental. They were looking to find an alternative to aluminum, which was rising in price, and wood, which was in short supply after the war. Since these natural materials were expensive to obtain, window manufacturers turned to vinyl. After a few years, an American company called BF Goodrich Company was able to manufacture vinyl windows in a more similar design to the wood and aluminum windows consumers were used to.
In the 1960s, vinyl replacement windows were becoming popular. However, it wasn’t until the 1980s when vinyl windows became a common material for new construction homes and buildings. By the mid-1990s, sales of vinyl windows grew by 125% since they were used as both replacement windows and in new construction projects.
What Are the Benefits of Vinyl Windows?
The biggest benefit of vinyl windows is how durable they are. However, there are also other reasons vinyl windows are a great option for your home.
Energy Efficiency
Vinyl is a very good insulator, which means vinyl windows will do a great job of regulating the temperature of your home. It will keep warm air in during the winter and cooler air inside during the summer. This will lessen the amount of work your HVAC system has to do throughout the year. Especially in areas like Avondale, your HVAC is working hard enough as it is! Often, homeowners who switch to vinyl windows notice lower energy bills from the very first month because of this.
Added Value
You might not be planning on selling your home any time soon, but this is still a valuable benefit of vinyl windows. Updated vinyl windows will increase the value of your home if and when you do sell your home. It will give peace of mind to buyers knowing they probably won’t have to worry about replacing the windows for a long time to come.
Low Maintenance
Another huge benefit of vinyl windows is that they require the least maintenance of all the popular window types on the market. After all, you will never have to stain or paint them! All you will have to do is clean them with soap and water periodically. With that maintenance alone, you can expect them to stay in great shape for many years. Unlike metal windows, vinyl window frames will not rust or corrode. And unlike wood windows, they will not rot or splinter.
How Long Do Vinyl Windows Last?
Homeowners can typically expect vinyl windows to last between 20 and 40 years. The reason for this seemingly large range is that there are many factors that can affect how long your windows last. The climate where you live is a large factor in the lifespan of vinyl windows. For example, they generally last only 10 to 30 years in coastal areas, compared to the national average of 20 to 40 years. Thankfully, in Avondale or other Arizona regions, you should be able to get more wear out of your windows. In addition, the amount of sunlight they get each day can play a role in how long they last. You may notice that windows that receive long hours of direct sunlight won’t last as long as windows that experience many hours of shade.
While you can’t do anything about the climate you live in, there are other things you can do to maximize the lifespan of your vinyl craft windows. The first is to purchase windows with a protective sealant on them. It can act almost like a sunscreen for your windows, lessening the impact of UV rays it is exposed to. Some people may also consider installing awnings over their windows that get the most sun. In addition, performing regular maintenance will be important. As mentioned above, there is not much maintenance required. Typically, a twice-yearly cleaning with soap and water will be enough. This cleaning will prevent any dirt buildup, which can potentially cause mold growth. In addition, these cleanings are a great time to catch any potential damage early, when it can easily be repaired. These simple steps can help you get the best lifespan out of your windows.
Get Vinyl Windows From AZ Valley Windows
If you are in the market for new windows for your home, vinyl windows should be at the top of your list. These windows are some of the best on the market today. From their outstanding durability to their energy efficiency and low maintenance, they make an excellent choice for Phoenix area homeowners. If you’d like to learn more about vinyl craft windows, reach out to AZ Valley Windows. We offer every customer a free in-home consultation and project estimate, so you can decide if AZ Valley Windows is the right company for your home project in Avondale or the surrounding area.
