But advances in design plus improvements in the formulation of polyvinyl chloride (PVC) have made vinyl windows a high-quality product that competes favorably with wood.
However, vinyl windows have always had some advantages over aluminum and steel. PVC is a nonconductor of heat. Vinyl window design adds greatly to the beauty of house. The PVC window frame is hollow, built with multiple chambers to add strength. Those chambers also trap air and thereby slow heat transfer (a great insulating value). Good quality vinyl windows are nearly equal to wood windows in their overall insulating value.
Vinyl windows come in a wide variety of styles, including single- and double-hung, horizontal sliding, casement, awning and hopper. Sliding patio doors are also available. The color is part of the PVC formula, so vinyl windows never have to be painted.
If your house has older wood double-hung windows, vinyl is a good replacement choice and a reasonably easy do-it-yourself project. Unlike full-frame windows, which are designed for new construction replacement windows are made to fit into existing window openings. You don’t have to remove your old windows entirely, because vinyl replacement windows are made to fit in the sash opening.
