Vinyl Clad Windows: The Advantages and Disadvantages
Advantages
One of the first advantages of vinyl clad windows is their energy efficiency. Vinyl designs provide much more insulation than other materials such as aluminum. Vinyl clad windows will keep heat from entering your home during the summer, but help retain heat during the winter.
Another advantage of vinyl clad windows deals with maintenance. Unlike wooden designs, you never have to paint or sand the window frames. Vinyl clad windows require no maintenance except for periodically washing the glass like all other window designs.
One of the next advantages of vinyl clad windows is their design capabilities. Materials like aluminum and wood can be difficult to mold in certain shapes. Vinyl clad windows can be molded to any style, so they are available in many different designs. You will easily be able to find the perfect match for your home.
The final advantage of vinyl clad windows deals with their installation. These windows will be able to fit into the spaces that house your existing windows. You don’t have to worry about any additional construction work. Vinyl clad windows are also very easy to install.
Disadvantages
One of the primary disadvantages of vinyl clad windows deals with color. Although they come in a wide variety of colors, you won’t be able to paint these windows. Therefore, you may have a little difficulty trying to match the exterior color of your home with your vinyl clad windows.
Another disadvantage of vinyl clad windows deals with their look. Vinyl isn’t a strong material, so it can’t be manufactured into thin pieces like wooden or metal windows. Therefore, vinyl clad windows usually look bulkier than other designs. Also, the texture of these windows doesn’t feel nice to some as it feels just like plastic.
These are some of the advantages and disadvantages of vinyl clad windows. They provide excellent insulation, so they keep heat out during the summer and keep it in during the winter. Vinyl clad windows also don’t require any maintenance except for occasionally washing the glass. The main problem with these windows is that you can’t paint them, so you may have a hard time matching them with the exterior of your home.