HomeReplacementWindows.net
Are vinyl replacement windows good?
Yes, I'm being vague. Wood, Vinyl, something else?? I live in New England
Public Comments
- Vinyl windows are excellent. Especially the dual-pane windows with low-E coatings. They can make them in any size you want and in many configurations (picture window, sliding, double-hung). They never need painting and don't weather over time like wood does. They easily can be retrofitted into an area where you currently have wood windows. And, they come in a variety of colors (white, almond, brown, wood grain, etc.).
Unless you have a house of historical significance, or it's just really old and you want to maintain that look with wood windows, vinyl windows are actually preferable when doing a remodel.
You can still get windows in anodized aluminum, too. But, again, vinyl is preferable.
- Yes, either vinyl-clad wood or extruded vinyl shapes.
They don't need painting, are weather & mildew-proof.
Be sure to get double glazing, preferably gas-filled.
They have a higher R value!
Aluminum frames need a thermal break for insulation.
- That's if u replace all ur window to make it uniformed. New code requires double pane and gas filled. They can cost $300+ depends on size. That's not counting labor. Vinyl is good...moisture proof, termites don't like it. Energy efficient. etc. The only thing bad about them is the price.
- it depends on what you want them to do. if you are looking for energy efficiency with no maintenance, vinyl can be very good.
if you don't care about doing a bit of yearly maintenance and really love the look of natural wood, then wood is still an option. you will need to inspect the seal between glass and aluminum cladding yearly. the main problem with wood replacement windows is when this seal goes moisture will leak in and can rot the window from the inside out without you knowing it until it's too late. you will also need to check interior finishes and treat any water/sun damaged wood on a regular basis.
vinyl windows can be very good or very bad. cheap vinyl windows will probably be worse than the old windows you have now(this goes for cheap wood, fiberglass or composit). putting good glass in a low quality vinyl frame is a waste of $. bad frames lead to drafts and seal failure in the glass.
check windows for nfrc or national fenestration rating councel certification (energy star rating). windows will need to be certified for the region of the country you live in.
if you have really nice wood trim in your home, stay away from the artificail wood grain on viny windows, against real wood, the artificial stuff looks fake. also, will be very difficult to match the color of your existing wood and will usually look like you tried to match it but missed. it's best if going to vinyl to use solid white or tan colored vinyl.
in the midwest, cheap vinyl windows start around $300 each installed. good vinyl windows start around $450. good wood windows start aroung $650.
when you get ready to replace your windows, take your measurments to several window companies showrooms and have them tell you about their windows and have you a price. take a few pictures of your windows so they can get an idea of any extra work that will need to be done. when you have found one or two that you like, have them come out to your house and give you an exact price.
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- In N.East also & have replaced all my windows w/ vinyl & aluminum over the years.
Would go w/ all Vinyl.
Quality & prices are all over the lot.
Wisdom I picked up......
The most expensive are not always best value.
Some mfrs only rate the glazed panels for insulation value which may be good , but the weatherstripping , operation & frames are poor.
Virgin vinyl w/ welded seams is preferable.
Would avoid the ones that have lips in front of the lower sash.
The windows I like best (that I could afford) were from Sears .
Plenty of weather on the exposed upstairs
They are the best in the house & were among the least expensive.
Best regards
