Vinyl Windows: The Sustainable Option

There are tough choices in life. Choosing a window style doesn’t have to be one of them. Vinyl windows, made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), are budget-friendly and durable. They can last for over 20 years and save you plenty of money on your energy bills. They require little to no maintenance and are the most practical design compared to other window types. Although there are many benefits to vinyl windows, you may still be considering other options. To assist you in making your final decision, we have compiled information about everything you need to know about Vinyl windows.

 Benefits of Vinyl

Besides being budget-friendly, there are many features that make vinyl a great choice for your home windows.

• There is no heat transfer, they are designed to be neutral and they repel heat from your home.
• They offer better protection from the air, as they are welded together, this means they do not have any joints connecting them, which stops air from entering your home.
• The glass is better insulated, as most newer vinyl windows are known to have double or triple pane glass.
• They are quite durable and can last for over 20 years.
• They are very energy efficient.
• They are an affordable window option.

Wood Windows vs Vinyl

There are several types of window frames to choose from, the most popular being Wood and Vinyl. Wood frames are durable, aesthetically pleasing, and are less prone to heat and cold transfer compared to other types of window frames. However, they require more maintenance as they have the potential to rot. This makes them unsuitable for certain climates, including ones that have cooler and wet conditions. An example of this is the South Coast area of British Columbia here in the Lower Mainland. The cost to maintain them on top of all other expenses can make these windows rather expensive. Vinyl, on the other hand, requires little to no maintenance, is durable, and a lot cheaper than wood. Vinyl windows do have limitations when it comes to design, but overall if you’re looking for the most energy-efficient option, Vinyl is the way to go.

Tip: If you want extra protection, for a couple of extra dollars, inquire about a double-paned window with Low-E and is argon filled. These types of glass are known to have more insulation than single-paned windows, which will help you be more energy efficient.

If you are considering vinyl windows or would like to learn more about other types of window options, check out our selection here at North Shore Door. If you have any more questions, our experts are more than happy to speak with you. Call us at 604-980-3670 or submit a contact form.