Choosing quality windows and doors for your home is an important and sometimes challenging decision. You want materials that are attractive, functional, and affordable. The good news is that vinyl windows and doors fit the bill! 

Here is everything you need to know about vinyl windows and doors to make the most informed decision possible. 

What Are Vinyl Windows?

Vinyl windows are made from polyvinyl chloride, otherwise known as PVC. These window frames were created as a more cost-effective alternative to wooden frames. 

So, why is vinyl a good material for windows?

 

Vinyl is flexible, reducing potential air leaks, and is durable enough to last between 20 and 40 years. 

Types of Vinyl Windows

There are many different types of vinyl windows so they are perfect for just about any installation. From new builds to replacement windows, vinyl windows give you options. 

Casement

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Casement windows are hinged windows that open out to the left or the right, like a door. They are also commonly called crank windows. 

This is a type of vinyl window that most people are familiar with. They can be installed anywhere but are especially perfect for areas that are tough to access, like over a kitchen sink. 

Awning

 

 

 

 

 

Like casement windows, awning windows are hinged and operate with a crank. The primary difference is that awning windows open out from the bottom with the hinge found at the top. 

These are ideal for bathrooms, kitchens, and places where the windows are wider than they are tall. 

Sliding

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Sliding windows, sometimes called gliding windows, are a window style that opens horizontally by sliding on a track. 

This type of vinyl window is ideal for a room or area that is seeking fresh air and an unobstructed view. 

Picture

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

Picture windows are often large statement windows that can often serve to highlight architectural features. These windows are stationary, which means they do not open. They are designed to provide an unobstructed view. 

Bay

 

 

 

 

 

 

Bay windows are three-sided windows that bow out from the house. The center section is a picture window, and the sections on the right and left are another type of window. These side sections tend to be smaller than the center. 

These windows can protrude far into the exterior, creating more interior floor space. 

Bow

 

 

 

 

 

 

A bow window is similar to a bay window but has four or five sections with a curved structure, creating a rounded appearance. 

Bow windows are wider than bay windows, and because there is more glass, they often allow for more light. 

Advantages and Benefits of Vinyl Windows

There are several advantages and benefits that come with installing vinyl windows in your home. They are an attractive, durable, cost-effective solution that can keep your home looking great and functioning as it should. 

Here are some of the biggest benefits: 

Energy Efficient 

With the rising costs of heating and cooling our homes and concerns around environmental impacts, energy efficient windows are an important advantage. 

Vinyl windows have increased insulation, making them a practical choice for reducing air leakage and drafts. As a homeowner, you will likely see lower electricity and hydro bills with vinyl windows. 

The vinyl itself is a recyclable material, so it can further reduce your environmental impact. 

Durability 

Putting in windows as part of an upgrade, update, or renovation is a fairly significant and potentially disruptive undertaking. This is why you need a durable solution to last, so you don’t have to repeat the experience. 

Vinyl windows can last 20-40 years before you will notice any issues or damage. 

Low Maintenance

Wooden window frames require a lot of maintenance. They often need to be resealed and repainted. On the other hand, vinyl requires very little maintenance to stay looking brand new. 

If you notice a build-up of dust, mud, or grime on the frames, grab some warm water and a sponge to wipe it away. It’s that simple. 

Once in a while, temperature extremes, like those we experience in South Eastern Ontario, can cause the seal around the windows to break, but all you need is a caulking gun to restore the seal. 

Moisture Resistance

Unlike window frames made of wood, vinyl windows are moisture resistant. This means that they can stand up to rain, snow, and ice without the need for maintenance or repairs. Where wood can warp and crack, vinyl will look remain good as new. 

What Are Vinyl Doors?

Vinyl doors are a versatile option for your home. Essentially, vinyl doors are raw medium-density fiberboard (MDF) wrapped in vinyl cladding. 

Vinyl doors have a solid interior and a resilient exterior that can stand up to the elements and is easy to clean. 

And for certain types of doors, vinyl door frames are a popular choice. When it comes to patio doors, for example, vinyl frames do not take on moisture or warp, keeping the sliding door functional for years to come. 

Advantages and Benefits of Vinyl Doors

Like vinyl windows, vinyl doors have many advantages and benefits. Strength, performance, affordability, durability, and low maintenance requirements are some of the greatest benefits of this door type. 

Here is a closer look at some of these benefits: 

Energy Efficient 

When choosing an exterior door, you need to consider energy efficiency. 

Over time, a vinyl door will save you money on your energy bills. When compared to other types of doors and frames, vinyl doors fit the best and prevent air leaks. This will help your home heating and cooling systems work more efficiently.

Affordable

Vinyl doors are more affordable than other door types like wood and steel. And this affordability comes without having to sacrifice quality. 

Not only do vinyl doors cost less to purchase, their durability means you pay less on repairs and replacements down the road, too. 

Durability 

Vinyl doors, like vinyl windows, resist moisture which means they will not rot, crack, or decay. They can withstand extreme heat and extreme cold, as well as rain, snow, and ice. This is good news as you want a door that can take whatever Mother Nature throws at it without having to shell out for maintenance, repairs, or replacement every few years.

Lightweight

Lightweight vinyl doors offer a much easier installation process than other materials. And if you need a replacement, that can be managed with reduced labour as the door can be handled more easily. 

Vinyl is also a good option for homes with seniors, children, or individuals with disabilities. The lightweight nature of vinyl doors means they are much easier to open and close. 

Low Maintenance

Steel and wooden doors require monitoring and regular maintenance as they are impacted by things like weather and wear and tear. Vinyl doors, on the other hand, can withstand whatever is thrown at them, requiring few repairs, if any.

And they make for easy cleaning. They require little more than a wipe-down with a wet cloth. 

Choose Energy Kingston Exteriors for Your Vinyl Windows and Doors

Vinyl windows and doors are a smart choice for your home. Available in a range of styles, you can find the perfect combination for your house. 

Whether you have a sleek, modern house or a classic colonial or Victorian, vinyl windows and doors will keep your home safe, secure, attractive, and energy efficient. 

But, to reap the benefits of vinyl replacement windows and doors, you need a team of professional installers you can trust. With years of experience, Energy Kingston Exteriors uses top-quality materials to get the job done properly. 

If you are thinking of installing new windows or new doors, contact us today to learn more about what we can do for you!