Vinyl Windows 101
Long lasting, low maintenance Vinyl windows are quite popular with a lot of home owners, as the performance and longevity of these windows compare favorably to other materials; also, vinyl generally costs less to produce.All vinyl windows aren't created equal - different additives are used to make different types of vinyl windows. A vinyl window frame is made primarily of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), but other materials are often used for hardware and reinforcement.
When you're looking for vinyl windows, try to find out about the quality of materials used in those specific windows. Virgin PVC vinyl is the best ingredient used to fabricate frame and sashes as it has higher amounts of UV inhibitors and impact modifiers to maintain structural integrity. And if you're looking for windows that will keep the noise out, vinyl has a multi chambered frame mass which acts as dead air space thereby reducing sound transmission.
If you're not buying windows specifically to keep out the noise, vinyl has other superior qualities as well.
Vinyl windows are long lasting, easy to maintain and offer high thermal efficiency ratings. You can buy them in all popular styles such as fixed or picture windows, double and single hung, horizontal sliding, casement, awning, and decorative bay, bow and garden windows. Vinyl windows can be custom-made to fit any size and shape, and a lot of manufacturers also make vinyl patio doors. Some also offer French style hinged doors.
You can also buy these windows with extra levels of UV inhibitors, which help them stand up to harsh weather conditions. These windows are recyclable, environmentally friendly, and won't pit, rust, corrode or peel over time if you follow the easy care process. Vinyl doesn't swell or shrink in extreme moisture conditions and it has high insulating qualities. The windows don't need to be painted, and are easily cleaned with a damp cloth and mild detergent.
You also have choices in glazing with vinyl windows, as they're available with single glazing, and double and triple insulating glass. Other options such as tempered, frosted, low emissivity and wire glass are also common. You can easily replace wood, aluminum and steel windows with vinyl.
Insulated vinyl window frames are popular as well. These are standard vinyl frames, except that the hollow cavities of the frame are filled with insulation to give them better thermal performance. These frames are generally used with high performance glazings. You can also get clad windows, which are wood frames that are covered in a layer of aluminum or vinyl for extra protection. The inside frame (inside the house) is made of wood for attractiveness and can be painted or stained while the exterior frame, (on the outside of the house) is covered in aluminum or vinyl.
The American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) has established standards for structural integrity, air infiltration resistance and water infiltration resistance for vinyl windows. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) establishes guidelines for the window's thermal performance.
