Thinking of renovating your house? Dissatisfied about the broken, unattractive or worn out windows screaming for your attention? When choosing replacement windows, the two most popular types of windows are wood and vinyl windows. Vinyl replacement windows are considered to be one of the most popular home improvements around, primarily because of their cost effectiveness, easy installation and low maintenance as compared to its alternatives. Vinyl replacement windows come in a variety of styles such as casements, sliders, bays, bows, shapes and greenhouse windows.
While choosing the vinyl replacement window best suited for your home, it is advisable to pay attention to the following essential features of a vinyl window:
Vinyl formulation: Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) without plasticizers, called UPVC, help to minimize movement and develop additives that help resist the ultraviolet rays in sunlight thereby protecting your house, furniture and most importantly, you. Thus, no more fading, peeling and cracking of vinyl windows on their exposure to direct sunlight.
Structural Load: Structural load means the amount of weight or design pressure the window can take, usually tested in pounds per square foot. There are different classes, starting at 15 psf for 'Residential,' 25 psf for 'Light Commercial,' and so on. The actual structural test pressure required by test standard is 1.5 times the design pressure (or performance grade).
Water Resistance: Water resistance is a very crucial feature of vinyl replacement windows. While most vinyl replacement windows are water resistant, it is necessary to verify the rating. The water tightness rating indicates the pressure reached before there is any interior water leakage.
Energy Efficiency: Vinyl replacement windows are a great option when it comes to being energy efficient. Having energy efficient windows has often proven to save homeowners between 7-10% on their energy bills.
Glazing: Modern vinyl replacement windows have more advanced glass features than wood. Our thermopane units come with multiple Low E (low emissivity) coatings, Argon Gas, SuperSpacer thermal bars and SimplyClean glass.
Frame design: The frames of vinyl replacement windows are hollow, built with multiple chambers to add strength. Those chambers also trap air and thereby slow heat transfer. Vinyl window frames may be screwed together like aluminum windows, or welded at the corners. Windows with welded frames tend to be sturdier, as well as more energy efficient, since air is sealed inside.
Security: All vinyl windows have a solid locking device and effective burglar-proof features. The double paned glass of vinyl windows also provides a reliable security measure.
Finally, while selecting vinyl replacement windows, choose the one that enhances the decor of the home as well as provides comfort and protection. For more information, you may visit http://www.fasada.ca/.
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