Shopping For High Quality Vinyl Windows

(HIT) - Vinyl windows have become one of the most popular options for homeowners looking to add value to their homes. Real estate agents estimate that windows rank right up there with kitchen and bathroom renovations as one of the best methods of home improvement, and, on a national average, windows return about 72% of the money invested in them when the home is resold.

Quality vinyl windows provide homeowners with the value-added features of convenience, ease-of-cleaning, energy efficiency and low maintenance. Quality vinyl windows never need scraping or painting, they don't swell or rot in humid climates, and they don't require special storm or screen windows. For these reasons, it is estimated that homeowners will soon purchase over 9 million vinyl windows for remodeling and replacement.

In North America, vinyl windows were introduced to a wide audience during the early 1960's. Today's vinyl windows are vastly more sophisticated in material quality, design, strength, longevity and performance.

However, the old phrase "you get what you pay for" very often applies to vinyl windows. That's because the amount of materials and engineering that go into a vinyl window can make dramatic differences in quality from one window to the next. There are some distinct features you can look for when shopping for a quality relacement vinyl window.

Welded vs. Unwelded Vinyl Window Corners

In any window, the number-one problem spot is the corner of the sashes and frame. Due to contraction and expansion, mechanical windows are more prone to seal failures around the corners, allowing air (and energy dollars) to race out of a home. High-tech, quality vinyl windows are "fusion-welded" at the corners, forming a bond that, in many cases, is as strong as the rest of the window. Fusion-welding produces a virtual airtight corner for long-lasting energy savings and strength.

Multi-Chamber Frames And Sashes

One of the surest ways to tell a poor-quality vinyl window from a high-quality window is to inspect the interior of the window profile. Quality vinyl windows use at least two chambers, and sometimes more, between the front and back face of the frames and sashes. Multi-chambers provide more welding surface area for a stronger window and more insulating chambers, which act as dead-air space, for energy savings.

Multi-chamber profiles also have specialized engineering functions. No matter what your window specialist might say, all windows leak or are exposed to condensation to some extent. Thus, good quality windows are designed to drain water away from the interior of a home. Quality vinyl windows are "pressure equalized" using advanced rainscreen engineering concepts by using multiple chambers to keep water away from window seals, internal metal reinforcements and the inside of a home.

Interlocking Sashes And Quality Weatherstripping

In vertically and horizontally sliding windows, make certain that the meeting rail, where the two sashes meet, have interlocking legs that clasp together. This feature greatly reduces air infiltration, as well as the possibility of manipulating the lock from the outside of your home. On all windows, weatherstripping should be difficult to tear off and it should look like in can pass the test of time.

Quality Vinyl Materials

This is a feature that is much more difficult to inspect. However, you can ask for proof that the vinyl window profiles are "AAMA Certified." AAMA, or the American Architectural Manufacturers Association, has an established program which monitors the quality control records of vinyl window extruders.

Insulating Glass

About 75% of a window's surface area is composed of glass. Thus, the glass type is critical. Double and triple glazed windows with Low-E glass give a substantial energy savings whether in cold or hot climates. A dealer should be able to advise on a variety of glass options to best suit a region.

A vast range of user-friendly features for vinyl windows also exists. These include special trims which improve the aesthetics of a home, different colors and woodgrain finishes, night security latches, inside glazing for added security, special ventilators, as well as options for the physically challenged.

No matter how good a window is, a poor installation will negate virtually any of its benefits. Selection of a good window dealer is critical for achieving remodeling goals. Hire a reputable dealer who uses a good installation crew.

Good installation means honest service, little mess and no hassles. Any good vinyl window dealer should be able to supply a list of references, and "before and after" photos of installation to ensure that it is a reputable firm. Most companies offer a 10-year warranty or more on their materials and services. The Better Business Bureau may also be able to assist.

Courtesy: Home Improvement News and Information Center