Vinyl Vs Aluminum Windows: Which Is The Better Choice?
The windows in your home are essential for many reasons as they serve as both functional and aesthetic fixtures. When it comes time to consider taking on a window replacement project for part of or your entire home, one of the more important factors that needs to be considered is what frame material will your new windows be constructed of. While it’s important to work around your budget, you also want to ensure you are getting top quality materials and construction. Understanding the strengths and weaknesses between your different options can help you make the right decision for your home well before your window replacement sales representative comes to give you a quote.
Below we compare vinyl and aluminum windows to help you along with your decision making.
Maintenance
Aluminum windows are that challenging to maintain, but do require more attention than the virtually maintenance free vinyl windows. Aluminum windows will require some upkeep to keep them in excellent condition. Since there can be condensation build up, there is a chance for mold growth and rust. There are specialised cleaners to help prevent these issues. Lubricating moving parts will help keep them from suffering from excessive wear.
Energy-Efficiency
Both vinyl and aluminum windows offer some level of energy efficiency. However, vinyl windows are more energy efficient because they are designed to reduce heat transfer and limits light from coming in from outside. This ultimately helps maintain the internal temperature of your home and reduce the need to rely on your HVAC system keep your home comfortable. Aluminum is a natural conductor of heat, this means more heat can penetrate through in the summer and more heat can escape in the winter which will lead to an increase reliance on your heating and cooling systems to regulate the temperature.
Appearance
Many homeowners find the thinner frames of aluminum windows to be more attractive and more modern than the thicker vinyl frames. Aluminum windows are available in a variety of colours and shades and can also be painted down the road if you are wishing to update the look, Vinyl windows are also available in a variety of colours, although less than aluminum.
Durability and Lifespan
One of the factors to consider when looking into a windows replacement is your local weather conditions. Here in Ontario we do face some extreme conditions, but the temperatures tend to change gradually and we do not have very many extreme temperature shifts. In a place with these extreme temperature changes, aluminum windows may be the better option because of their ability to withstand extreme climates. Vinyl windows are not as durable as aluminum windows in the climates, but they do fare well in a place with moderate weather condition changes, as well with vinyl windows you do not need to worry about corrosion.
Ease of Installation
When installing either a vinyl or aluminum window, it is best to always hire a professional to get the job done. It is usually easier to install vinyl windows because of the flexibility of the material. Since aluminum is not a flexible material, installation can be more challenging and may require more effort.
Affordability
It is essential to have your budget in mind with any home improvement project and a window replacement is no different. Generally, vinyl windows are less costly to both purchase and have installed than aluminum windows. The cost associated with your replacement may also vary depending on the manufacturer, size, colour options, and location of installation.
Both Vinyl and Aluminum windows are great options for window replacement, with each having its strengths and weaknesses. If you still need clarification on which option is best for you, you can contact a window replacement expert within your area to further discuss your options.
What are the Main Types of Windows?
When it comes time for a window replacement, you have the option of several window styles that offer differing features and designs. Some window styles are more popular than other due to their ease of use or versatility when it comes to fitting in certain opening sizes. Here we will cover the most common window styles and provide a brief description for each.
It should be noted that this list is in no particular order.
1. Double Hung Windows
Double hung windows are arguably one of the most common window styles used for residential homes today. Double hung windows evolved from the once extremely popular sing hung window, and even though both window styles look alike, their operations are quite different. Both the upper and lower sashes of double-hung windows are operational allowing for the opening to be higher or lower. In single hung windows, only the lower sash is operable.
Double hung windows offer more ventilation than their predecessor and are also more convenient to clean, as it can be completed from the inside of your home.
2. Casement Windows
If there was a window style that would challenge the double hung window for the most popular, it would be casement windows. They come with side hinges that allow them to open outward with the use of a crank. Most of them feature large glass panes that ensure that they can offer lots of natural light to enter a room. Casement windows are a great option for rooms that need ample ventilation as their sash can open a full 90 degrees. Not only do they allow for plenty of light and ventilation, casement windows have excellent energy performance and are very secure due to their tight seal when the locking mechanism is engaged.
3. Awning Windows
Awning windows are similar to casement windows as they also open outward utilizing a crank system. The main difference is that their hinges are located at the top of the frame, meaning they open upwards instead of to the left or right. They can play a key role in bringing lots of ventilation into a room. As a result of this, awning windows are often combined with large picture windows that will allow for plenty of light to enter a room. Additionally, they can be installed above a door offering additional ventilation and natural light.
Notably, you should not install awning windows around a walkway, pathway, or other areas with traffic. This is because they are capable of obstructing the path.
4. Picture Windows
These window styles are perfect for anyone looking to have an unobstructed view of the exterior of their home. Picture windows do not open, meaning that they are made of full glass, no screens or center frames to impede your view. They are great for rooms where you are comfortable sacrificing air flow for that perfect view. Picture windows do compensate for the lack of ventilation with ample natural sunlight.
It should be noted that picture windows can be combined with other window types such as awning windows if you want the view and the air flow.
5. Slider windows
As the name indicates, slider windows are windows that slide side to side to open. These awesome windows provide lots of ventilation and views of the outside. However, they may be difficult to seal when closing. Hence, you tend to gain and lose heat easily.
Apart from their locks, sliding windows don’t have any mechanical parts. Consequently, they are easy to clean and maintain.
6. Bay Windows
If you want to create beautiful views and angles in your home, bay windows are a great option to consider. They enable light to come into a room from various angles and are good for family rooms, studies and kitchens. To ensure you get the look and the ventilation, you can combine bay windows with casement or double hung windows to help increase the airflow.
These are just a few of the main window replacement styles available, to fully grasp the options for your window replacement project, speak with your window contractor regarding your options.
What are the Benefits of Vinyl Windows?
Are you looking for a window replacement for your home? If so, vinyl windows are an amazing option! This is because of the numerous benefits that vinyl windows are capable of offering to your property.
Here are some of the benefits of vinyl windows.
1. They are durable
Vinyl windows are known to be good at withstanding various weather conditions. Therefore, regardless of where you live, you can be certain that your vinyl windows will last for several years. Typically, vinyl windows can last for about twenty years or even longer with proper maintenance.
2. They are affordable
If you have a small budget and need quality windows, vinyl windows are the best option for you. These windows are made with materials that are easy to create and manufacture. As a result, they often come at relatively affordable prices. However, when it comes to window replacement, the style, size, and additional features of the vinyl windows can affect their prices. Make sure to factor in labour costs and installation fees when purchasing vinyl windows.
3. They are easy to maintain
Vinyl windows don’t require any special products to clean them. All you need is water and mild detergent. The windows hardly fade, chip, or scratch. In addition, there is no need to repaint or sand the windows. Therefore, maintaining your vinyl windows is quite easy and simple.
4. They are faster to install
Since vinyl is versatile and lightweight, the window can be installed easily and quickly. A window installation company can install the windows within a few hours. Since installation of vinyl windows is less labour intensive, it helps make them more affordable.
5. They are available in different color options
Vinyl windows have one of the widest ranges of color choices. Vinyl windows can be anything from neutral colours like white, black or beige to bold colours such as royal blue.
6. They are soundproof
Due to the insulating ability of vinyl windows, they are also good at blocking outside noise. These windows reduce the noise coming into your home, making your house more peaceful and relaxing.
7. They can increase your home value
Having windows in good condition significantly increases the value of your home.
If your windows are not in good condition, you should consider window replacement now. Due to the numerous benefits mentioned above, most homebuyers prefer homes with vinyl windows. Therefore, using vinyl windows for your home can boost its value.
Takeaway
If you are considering a window replacement, choose vinyl windows for your home! As mentioned above, they come with many added benefits from being affordable to looking aesthetic. Contact a window replacement specialist today to find out more about vinyl windows!
5 Signs It’s Time To Replace Your Windows and Doors
Replacing your windows and doors can be a big and very expensive project. However, there are some cases where biting the bullet on replacement costs is a must! Find out below when it's time to contact an expert to replace your windows and doors in London.
What Should I Look for in Replacement Windows?
Windows play a crucial role in any home, they keep us safe, offer ventilation, improve your home’s aesthetic appeal and provide us with an unobstructed view of your home’s external environment. When planning your home’s window replacement, it can be somewhat challenging to select from the different types and style available. The last thing any homeowner wants is to invest their money in windows that don't suit their needs.
We polled our team of window consultants and asked them to share what clients should look for in replacement windows, below is what they shared;
Energy Efficient
Some of the top questions clients have about their replacement windows revolve around energy efficiency. After all, the more efficient their new windows are, the more money they will save on their energy bills. Questions include what is the difference between triple pane and double pane windows? What is a Low-E coating? And What benefit does Argon gas offer?
Style
Replacement windows are available in a wide range of styles, and each one comes with its own advantages and potential downsides. So, you will want to choose replacement windows that are style-appropriate. Some of the more popular options include side-hung, double-hung, sliders, bay, bow, casement, and awning windows. It’s best to choose a style that complements your home’s architectural style.
You can opt to have your replacement windows custom-made to combine various styles to suit your unique needs.
Cost
The cost of replacement windows is a major consideration for most homeowners, as they are looking to stay within budget and still be able to find the best replacement windows for their home. Some of the factors that may affect the cost of your replacement windows include brand, energy efficiency options, material, size and any customizations such as colour.
Framing Material
When choosing replacement windows for your home, it's advisable to determine the frame material that would best suit your needs. The common framing materials to choose from include wood, fiberglass, vinyl, and aluminum. Each of these various framing materials for replacement windows differ in durability, appearance, insulation qualities, and other aspects.
Wood frames are known for their natural beauty, but do require some effort to maintain. Fiberglass frames are extremely durable and weather resistant but come at a slightly hire cost. Vinyl frames offer excellent insulation and are fairly maintenance free.
Keeping the above considerations in mind when choosing windows for your next replacement project will help you make an informed decision.
If you are in need of high-quality window replacement services in London or the surrounding areas, contact Riverbend Windows & Doors at 226-688-8652.
Should I Replace All Windows At Once?
Your home windows are your gateway to the outside. They provide you with a view, allow you to keep watch of the kids playing in the yard and provide warm, natural light to penetrate your home. However, there is a lot to consider when your windows begin to breakdown and are coming close to the end of their lifespan. Do I replace only the windows that are showing signs of failure or replace them all? What styles and functions should I consider? And who can we trust to properly install our windows? Are just a few of the questions you will need to resolve before replacing any of your windows.
We asked our design experts the first of these questions “Should a home owner replace all of their windows at once?”, here is what they had to share on the topic.
Home Aesthetics
One of the aspects to think about when choosing a window replacement is aesthetics. Replacing every window in your home can significantly increase your home’s aesthetic appeal. It will also keep your home looking uniform as there will be no mismatching windows. If you are not able to replace all of your windows at the same time, consider replacing them based on areas of your home. For example, if you need to replace a few windows in the front of your home, try to replace all of the windows on that side at the same time. This allows for a uniform exterior for the front of your home.
Functionality
Once your windows reach a certain age, they may not function as well as they once did. Hinges give out, cranks break, frames warp and the overall functionality significantly decreases. When looking to replace your windows, put a priority on the ones that are giving you the most issues to operate. Just keep in mind, if all of your windows are the same age and several have already begun to not function optimally anymore, the others will be following suit soon.
Interior Design
Aesthetics apply to the interior of your home, too. Many rooms have only one or two windows, so replacing those can help boost the appearance of the room. However, if you have several windows in the same room and one is damaged, you might want to replace them all as replacing a single window in a room with multiple windows may seem a bit awkward.
Budget
Replacing all of the windows in your home at once, comes with significant expense. You can decide whether this option is best for you after receiving several quotes. Replacing your windows all at the same time have many benefits, but if it is not in the budget to do so, focus on those windows that are causing the most issues or look into financing options.
Energy Efficiency
If you’re unsure whether you should replace all your windows, you should consider the energy efficiency benefits. New energy efficient windows will reduce the amount of heat loss and gain during the winter and summer months, reducing your reliance on your HVAC system and reducing your energy bills.
Ultimately, making the decision whether you should replace all of your windows at once needs to be done based on your current situation. Yes, there are many benefits of doing so, but it is not necessary to replace all of your windows at the same time.
What is the Difference between Double and Single Hung Windows?
Although single hung windows and double hung windows have some well-known similarities, and look very similar, they are not exactly identical as there are various factors that differentiate the two.
Both single hung and double hung window styles have two sashes. However, a single hung window’s top sash is fixed, meaning you cannot open and close it. The bottom sash is however operational, allowing for movement. On the other hand, double hung windows have two operational sashes, both top and bottom.
While this is the major difference between these two window styles, there are other differences that set them apart. We review these differences below:
Double hung windows are costlier
When it comes to the initial cost of installation, double hung windows are more expensive than the single hung alternatives. This is because of the more intricate manufacturing process and installation process. If you are on a tight budget for your window replacement, single hung windows will be the more economical option.
Single hung windows are more commonly used
Single hung windows have been around for several decades before the introductions of the double hung version. Therefore, it should not come as a surprise that single hung windows are more common. You are very likely going to find single hung windows in many older homes, but many modern homes still incorporate this style.
Double hung windows are easier to clean and maintain
Since it is possible to open both sashes of a double hung window, you have a much easier time cleaning the entire window (inside and out) from inside your home. However, with single hung windows you do not have the same convenience. This is because you cannot open the top sash. So, you will need to clean it from the outside and will probably require the use of a ladder.
Single hung windows tend to be more energy efficient
The energy efficiency of windows can be quite tricky to determine, as there are many factors that can influence a windows efficiency. But in most cases, single hung windows are more energy-efficient than their double hung counterparts. This is because they have less moving parts, leaving less crevasse for air and heat to escape.
Double hung windows provide more of ventilation
Because you can open both sashes of a double hung window, it allows for more air to flow into your home than a single hung window. This particular factor can make a big difference in your comfort level as well as your heating and cooling costs.
Single hung windows may require fewer repairs
Since single hung windows do not have as many moving parts, they have less that can potentially go wrong. However, if the damage is a broken window, double hung sashes are easier to repair or replace as they are not fixed into place.
When considering your different window replacement options, consider all of the features, conveniences, styles and costs before making your final decision. Riverbend Windows & Doors Inc is your local London, Ontario and surrounding area windows and doors specialist. Give us a call at (226) 688-8652 to discuss your replacement window options.
When Should You Replace Windows and Doors?
From increasing your home’s appeal to increase its energy-efficiency and providing security for your family, the importance of your windows and doors cannot be overemphasized. Most windows and doors are very durable and only require minimum maintenance allowing them to last for decades and decades. Their longevity is definitely a benefit, but it is also the reason that many homeowners do not pay the proper attention to their windows and doors. Like most other parts of your home, your window and doors should be inspected and maintained at a minimum annually (if not twice a year). This inspection will give you a better understanding of the condition of your windows and doors and will hopefully allow you to notice any minor issues before the escalate to larger issues.
Below we have outlined several key indicators to look out for when inspecting your windows and doors.
1. Age of Your Windows and Doors
It is important to know the number of years that your windows and doors have been in use for. Age alone is not an indicator of much, but most windows and doors have a lifespan of 20-25 years and if yours are getting close to this age, it is important to keep an eye out for potential signs of damage, wear, and even breakdowns.
2. Appearance and Style
Sometimes an upgrade is simply needed for aesthetic purposes. When completing your annual inspection, take a walk back to the sidewalk or street and look at your home. Are your windows and doors adding to or taking away from your home’s curb appeal? If they are not adding to your home’s aesthetic, can they be fixed or updated, perhaps with some fresh paint? If the answer is ‘not really’ you know it will be time to start planning for an upgrade.
3. Cracked and Missing Caulking
The caulking that surrounds your window and door frames plays a very important role. Its job is to seal and close the small space between the window or door frame and your home. This ensures that water, bugs , and extreme temperatures are not able to penetrate into your home. However, over time this caulking begins to breakdown, shrink, and even deteriorate. Once this happens, gaps appear around your window and doors frames allowing for air, pests, and water to make their way in. All of these have the potential to cause damage to your home as well as the windows and doors themselves. If neglected, the damage caused by this type of exposure will lead to the need for replacement windows and or doors.
4. Damage
Damage to the glass or to the frames of your windows and doors may be difficult to notice at times. That is why completing a thorough inspection is important. Small cracks and bends will all affect the operation of your windows and doors making it difficult to operate or leaving them exposed to security breaches from potential intruders.
Completing an annual inspection of your windows and doors will reveal any potential issues that need your attention, it is also one of many ways to identify when to replace windows and doors as you can compare the year over year wear and tear that your windows and doors have faced.
How Do You Know When It’s Time to Replace Windows?
As a homeowner, do you know the indicators for when you should look into replacing the windows and doors in your home? Considering that replacing your windows is one of those home improvement projects that most homeowners will only be involved in once or twice in their lifetime, chances are you probably don’t have a ton of experience with inspecting your windows to assess their condition.
To help out with this process, we asked a few of our technicians to share some tips that will help you answer the question; when should you replace windows in your home?
Here is what they shared:
When your windows are broken or damaged
The consensus was that this is the most obvious sign that you need to replace a window. Trying to repair cracked, broken, damaged or warped windows hardly ever works. The damage not only leaves your home susceptible to intruders, it reduces your home’s energy efficiency and aesthetic appeal.
When your windows are simply ugly and outdated
In some situations, your windows may still function well, but they look dingy and worn out. These worn down windows won’t accentuate the beauty of your home, they will take away from it! Your home should exude pride of ownership, and at times upgrading your windows and doors is the best way to do this and increase your property’s curb appeal.
When your energy bills spike
When your windows and doors are functional, they should be able to prevent the outside weather conditions from disrupting the interior environment of your home. However, if your windows are not functioning optimally, you will begin to feel drafts inside your home. Resultantly, you will be forced to increase your heating and cooling system usage more than you ought to. This, in turn, will increase your energy bills. So, when you notice that your energy bills are higher than expected, your windows and doors may be to blame.
When your windows lack the latest energy saving features
Advancements in technology, have led to significantly more efficient windows. These windows will not only help you save money on your energy consumption, they will help you be more comfortable in your home, as you shouldn’t have any hot or cold spots in your home. Some of these features include Low-E glass and argon gas filled.
When you struggle to close or open your windows
Closing or opening your windows should be done effortlessly. If you have to struggle with your windows when operating them, there is an issue already. Over time, these stubborn windows will become increasingly difficult to operate, leaving them relatively useless.
When you can clearly hear outside noise
Your windows and doors should block most of the outside from entering your home, except when they are open of course. If your windows are closed and you can still hear everything going on outside of your home or business fairly clearly, you know your windows are no longer able to complete their task as expected.
There are many reasons for why you should be replacing your windows and our technicians have seen them all. From windows that are being held together by duct tape to ones that have warped so badly, that you could stick a pen through the gap between the frame and the wall. But, you don’t need to wait for your windows to get to this condition before you call in a professional. Follow the tips shared above when inspecting your windows, and you will be able to diagnose if your windows are ready to be replaced or if they still have some life left in them.
Vinyl Fact + Fiction
The Facts About Today’s Vinyl
Vinyl is composed of ingredients from nature: chlorine (based on common salt) and ethylene (from natural gas). By employing further chemistry, vinyl can be made clear or colourful, thick or thin, flexible, rigid, or semi-rigid. Part of the beauty of affordable, energy-efficient and versatile vinyl is that it can last a lifetime. With long life cycles and natural fire resistance, vinyl is highly sustainable. No wonder vinyl is a major component in residential and commercial construction, wires and cables, consumer items and healthcare products.
Cutting Condensation
Another key benefit of vinyl windows is their ability to resist condensation (minimizing the presence of mold and mildew). Condensation appears when airborne moisture settles on cold surfaces (like glass). Since vinyl has low conductivity, the interior surface of vinyl windows remains relatively close to room temperature and, therefore, less susceptible to condensation. In extreme cases, condensation from non-vinyl window materials can produce frost or ice build-up on the interior of a window.
Myths and Truths About Vinyl
Myths and Truths About Vinyl
1. Vinyl cannot be recycled – FALSE!
Because vinyl is thermoplastic, vinyl products can be repeatedly melted and remoulded. Vinyl waste, trim and off-spec material (recycled from the vinyl production process) can add up to more than 1 billion pounds per year. This means that 99% of all manufactured vinyl is fabricated into finished products and avoiding landfills (according to the 1999 Principia Partners study, Post-Industrial and Post-Consumer Vinyl Reclaim) . In fact, post-industrial vinyl recycling has proven so viable that its price is indexed in leading plastic industry publications.
2. Vinyl is a major source of dioxin – FALSE!
Dioxin is an unwanted by-product of incineration, uncontrolled burning and certain industrial processes. Through regulation and voluntary efforts, releases of dioxin into the environment have been dramatically reduced.
Vinyl is an extremely small source of dioxin. So small, in fact, that levels in the environment would be essentially unchanged even if vinyl were not being manufactured and used in important everyday products. The vinyl industry has studied and worked diligently to reduce its contribution to dioxin.
In fact, according to the latest data from the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), vinyl manufacturing creates only grams of dioxin per year (which equates to less than one-half of one percent of all dioxins generated annually)!
3. Vinyl contributes to the danger of building fires – FALSE!
Fire science shows that the greatest hazards in a building fire are heat and carbon monoxide (CO) – a lethal, odorless gas produced in abundance by virtually all burning materials. If any hydrogen chloride (HCL) – an irritant gas with a pungent odour – is released, it can serve as a fire warning.
Because the vinyl polymer is made from 57% common salt (a plentiful natural resource which, by its nature, resists combustion), it can help slow down fires and save lives! Vinyl is one of the few materials meeting the stringent National Electrical Code of the National Fire Protection Association (NFPA) for insulating electrical and data transmission cables and airplane interiors.
Vinyl: Sustaining Life…for Generations
Versatile, energy-efficient vinyl provides a vital role in sustaining the environment. Products made from vinyl can (and will) last for generations and contribute to sustainable green building standards. As technology advances, vinyl will continue to evolve as a part of life.