Vinyl window frames are an excellent replacement for traditional wooden windows. Unlike wood, vinyl does not rot when exposed to moisture. Vinyl windows are affordable, easy to maintain, energy-efficient, and aesthetically appealing. However, vinyl comes in various designs and quality options. Therefore, consider these factors to improve the performance of your new vinyl windows.

Invest in High-Grade Vinyl

There are different grades of vinyl framing material used to manufacture residential windows. Low-grade vinyl is cheap, but it may become problematic in the future. Below are some problems that may arise if you opt for poor-quality vinyl windows.

• Warping under extreme solar heat
• Yellowing and fading
• Expanding and contracting in the heat
• Becoming brittle under low temperatures

Avoid these concerns by investing in high-grade vinyl. The material may be costly, but it will perform excellently in severe weather and give you value for money. High-grade vinyl will also last longer, eliminating the need for frequent window repairs.

Consider Your Climate

Climatic conditions can affect the durability and performance of vinyl windows. Extreme heat and cold can cause the material to expand and contract, leading to air leaks and reduced energy efficiency. Therefore, if your area experiences extremely hot summers or severely cold winters, consider the options below when investing in vinyl windows.

• High-grade vinyl: Opt for a higher vinyl grade that won't warp, expand, or become brittle when exposed to extreme temperatures. 
• Reinforced vinyl frame: Vinyl reinforced with aluminum or steel will perform better in extreme weather. However, metal can cause heat exchange and lower the window's efficiency. 
• Insulated vinyl: Vinyl windows have a hollow frame that you can fill with insulation to improve the window's thermal resistance properties.

Consider these three options to protect your new windows from extreme heat and cold.

Choose Your Color Carefully

Vinyl window frames come in various colors, ranging from solid hues to textured, wood-like designs. Unfortunately, changing the color of your vinyl windows can be difficult. Paint doesn't adhere well to plastic; thus, there is a high risk of flaking. What's more, it's hard to powder-coat vinyl because the material cannot withstand high temperatures. Therefore, choose your most preferred color because you might not be able to change it in the future. You can opt for white or other neutral shades that blend seamlessly with your building's exterior colors.

Invest in Double-Glazed Vinyl Windows 

Single window glazing allows heat transfer and lowers the energy efficiency of your vinyl windows. Therefore, for excellent performance, pair the vinyl frame with double-glazed glass. This type of glazing features two sheets of glass separated by a gas-filled space. The gas-filled gap creates a thermal barrier that prevents heat exchange and boosts the window's insulation properties.

Consider these tips when installing vinyl windows in your windows. For professional installation services, consult a vinyl window installation contractor.