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Tuesday, December 6, 2011

Contractor Tips - The Ups and Downs of Vinyl Replacement Windows


Home improvement and working with contactors is the buzz right now among homeowners, especially those that want to get a project done right the first time with little hassle. Among the many items on to-do lists are replacement windows - primarily because of a pressing need to lower utility costs while also increasing the curb appeal of the home. After all your replacement windows are as visible outside as they are inside.

Believe it or not, more vinyl windows are sold to U.S. home owners than any of the type of window when it comes to home construction and remodeling projects be they DIY or contractor based. About 67% of the residential replacement window market to be exact. There are a number of reasons why vinyl is so popular, including the low price tag, the reliability, the energy performance and savings along with the overall durability of vinyl replacement windows.

There's a reason contractors love it so much. Vinyl replacement windows are virtually indestructible, hold-out moisture better than any other window material and are completely insect proof. When properly maintained, the windows can last a great deal longer than any other material - regardless of the sticker price or manufacturer claims.

Because vinyl is an inert material it's considered to be a poor thermal conductor, and that means it's an excellent insulator. The material is extremely strong and because of its stout durability it can be manufactured with a hollow frame. That hollow frame makes for air-filled chambers that act as additional insulators, much the same way a double-pane window insulated with gas or air pockets between the glass in newer replacement windows.

With every good there must be a bad, a Yin to every Yang; vinyl windows are durable and excellent insulators but there's a lot to be desired when it comes to appearance. Using a contractor to install vinyl windows may save you money in the end but you'll be sacrificing a bit in terms of the look. The fusion-welded seams aren't attractive and the material is obviously synthetic when you look at it. While the color permeates the material - hiding nicks and scratches - the off-the-shelf colors leave a lot to be desired and a different color palette requires a special order.

Painting vinyl window replacements isn't recommended by most contractors, since most paints - the ones that are safe for your home and the environment - won't adhere well to vinyl. Vinyl expands and contractors more than most housing materials and constant strain and fluctuation on surface paints causes cracks and peeling.

There's a lot to be said for vinyl replacement windows but if you have it in your budget you can always work with a general contractor to find something more appropriate for your home. It ultimately comes down to preference in the look and design. If you're in the market for performance, then you can't go wrong with vinyl replacement windows from a certified general contractor.




Looking to hire a Contractor northern Virginia to update your home? Consider a professional that's well versed in Replacement Windows Virginia. There's no better way to increase the curb appeal of your property while improving the comfort of your home interior. Contact us today for a free estimate - Paragon Remodeling - 8000 Towers Crescent Drive - Vienna VA 22182




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