What Are Vinyl Windows?

What Are Vinyl Windows?

What are vinyl windows? Vinyl windows are the most popular window type installed around the world. They are built from man-made material, PVC, and have been a popular choice in America since the 1970s. Many people may not consider the different window types when purchasing a new home, but the kind of window you have installed in your home is just as important as everything else. When you choose Acadian Windows’ vinyl windows, you’re getting a quality window that you’ll have in your home for years. 

Continue reading to learn more about what vinyl windows are and why you need them in your home. 

The History of Vinyl Windows

Windows were used as a simple way to shed light into a room. When windows were first invented there wasn’t even glass. It was just a hole in the wall with shutters installed to prevent weather elements from getting in. In 1900, glass panels began to be introduced and, slowly but surely, everyone had glass panels in their windows. As this was the 1900s, wood windows were really the only option. They held up very well for such a long period of time, it makes sense that when vinyl windows were invented no one wanted to use them.

Vinyl windows were created due to a lack of materials after World War II. Materials like wood and aluminum were hard to come by but homes needed to be rebuilt quickly. People decided to turn to synthetic materials to rebuild their homes because they were cheap and effective. In 1954, vinyl windows were created in Germany. Many people used synthetic materials to rebuild their homes in Germany but not in many other countries during this time. The rebuilds were bulky and did not look very good but they worked at the time. 

Vinyl windows made their way to the United States in the late 1950s but became really popular in the 70s. Americans initially didn’t want vinyl windows because plastic wasn’t high-end enough. Many people also felt that wood and aluminum would not only hold up better over time but also look better. While wood and aluminum windows are durable, vinyl windows are the most long-lasting out of the three. 

What Are Vinyl Windows’ Benefits?

So, what are the benefits of vinyl windows over different window styles? Vinyl windows are cost-effective, low maintenance, energy-efficient, durable, and customizable. 

Cost-Effective

PVC is a very cost-effective material because it’s used for everything, including healthcare equipment, plumbing pipes, car parts, and, you guessed it, windows! Vinyl windows are cheaper than other window types, such as wood, aluminum and fiberglass because of the way they are manufactured. Since they are made from a mass-produced material, it’s easy to get the window of your dreams at a low cost. Other window choices, like aluminum, are expensive, but they also have their benefits depending on the style of your home. Acadian Windows also offers financing options so that you can upgrade your windows now and pay for them over time. Fill out this form, to talk to us about your options today. 

Low-Maintenance

After you get your vinyl windows installed you won’t have to worry about anything else. Vinyl windows are incredibly low maintenance. All you have to do is clean them. If you get vinyl windows in a certain color, you won’t have to worry about that color fading, and repainting them. With wood windows, you have to continue to repaint, or restain them as they get older; however, this makes them easier to update if you want to make a style change. 

Since the material used to make vinyl windows is so widespread, it’s very easy to replace them if something were to happen. Wood windows are slightly more difficult to replace but are a great addition to your home if you love a warm, cabin-like aesthetic. Vinyl windows are simply easier to install than wood windows because they are lighter. 

Energy-Efficient 

Vinyl windows are constructed to be more energy-efficient for your home. Instead of screws and bolts keeping the sides together, the corners are heat welded. This means that air is less likely to escape through an old or loose screw hole. The inside of vinyl windows have honeycomb chambers, giving them the ability to trap air and keep your home insulated. Along with these benefits, you can also get Low-E coating on your windows to make them even more energy-efficient. Low-E coating blocks harsh UV rays and keeps your home cool in the summer and warm in the winter. 

Wood and aluminum windows have their own respective energy benefits but if you’re looking to bring down your utility bills, vinyl windows are your best option. 

Durable

Wood windows, while aesthetically pleasing, have some durability issues. This is not a problem with vinyl windows because they’re made of plastic. They won’t rot, warp, or be eaten by insects, making them a great alternative to wood windows, if durability is a concern for you. These windows are able to withstand all the different weather conditions and keep your home protected as well. Most homeowners say that they replace their vinyl windows every 10 or 20 years. 

Customizable

The material that vinyl windows are made out of allows them to be customizable. Previously, you could only get vinyl windows in white, but new technology has allowed manufacturers to be able to add color. In addition to that, you can get them in a variety of styles, such as single hung, double-hung, slider, and more. You can even get these windows in different stains and finishes. If you want the look of a wood window or aluminum window without the maintenance, vinyl windows are the best option for you.

The Best Vinyl Windows New Orleans Has To Offer & Beyond!

Have you been considering changing the windows in your home but you just weren’t sure which option was best? You don’t have to worry anymore because Acadian Windows is here to offer you the best vinyl windows in New Orleans. After your consultation with us, you’ll never have to wonder “what are vinyl windows?” again. We thoroughly explain the benefits and costs of your new window installation so that you’re aware of everything upfront. 

Our window installation crew follows a carefully mapped out process so that you get efficient service. When we come to install your new vinyl windows, you’ll hardly notice that we’re there! We use only the highest quality products when installing your new windows. Shoddy workmanship has gotten the home renovation industry a bad rap, but we’re trying to change that one beautifully installed vinyl window at a time. Choose Acadian Windows for all your windows needs and contact us today if you have any questions. We can’t wait to get you the vinyl windows of your dreams.