If your old windows are letting in drafts and looking outdated, consider upgrading them to boost your home’s comfort, save on energy costs, and elevate its value. Choosing the right window material is crucial to its longevity and performance, especially in Louisiana’s moisture-rich climate.
Vinyl windows are a popular choice for homeowners because they offer durability and energy efficiency in varying weather conditions. They can be made in a variety of styles and are available as standard, composite, and engineered vinyl.
Energy efficiency
Vinyl windows help reduce energy costs by limiting the amount of air that escapes and infiltrates your home, stabilizing indoor temperatures. They also feature ENERGY STAR optimized glass, which significantly reduces the amount of heat that transfers through your windows. This translates to lower energy bills and faster recoupment of initial investment costs.
Premium vinyl is non-porous, meaning it resists moisture-related damage, unlike wood. Its composition prevents rot and mold growth, making it ideal for humid environments. The material also resists fading and corrosion, extending the lifespan of your windows.
PVC (polyvinyl chloride) is a common construction material, used for everything from pipes to plastic wrap. It’s a durable and cost-effective material, which makes it a popular choice for new window installation projects. It’s also environmentally friendly, as unused PVC scraps can be recycled into other products. This makes it an appealing option for eco-conscious homeowners. Vinyl replacement windows are also available in a variety of styles, including casement and awning, which open outward like doors to allow for superior ventilation.
Longevity
The longevity of vinyl windows is an important consideration for homeowners in coastal regions, where high humidity and severe storms can damage traditional wood windows. The durability and energy efficiency of vinyl windows make them a wise investment. They are also cheaper than other window types and require less maintenance.
Unlike wood, vinyl is not prone to moisture-related problems such as warping and rot. Moreover, they don’t corrode or rust and are pest free. They are also easy to clean, and their colors resist fading due to prolonged sunlight exposure.
Many manufacturers offer a range of vinyl windows, including Andersen and Pella. Andersen offers a wide variety of styles and designs to fit different aesthetic preferences, while Pella’s 250 Series features an eco-friendly composite made from reclaimed wood fiber and vinyl for maximum strength and durability. Their vinyl windows also offer superior soundproofing and energy efficiency. They are available in a number of finishes and stains, and can be customized to meet your needs.
Variety of styles
Vinyl windows are available in a variety of styles to match any architectural design. They are durable and resist moisture and fading, making them an attractive and affordable option for Louisiana homeowners. They also help save energy costs by keeping homes cooler in summer and warmer in winter.
When choosing a style for your home, consider double-hung windows, which offer two operable sashes that tilt in for cleaning and slide up and down for superior ventilation. They are equipped with stainless steel coil spring balance systems for easy operation. Other options include casement windows, which open outward like doors and reduce glare and solar heat gain while offering unobstructed views.
If you are looking for a more dramatic upgrade, consider bay or bow windows. These windows add value to your home and enhance its curb appeal. They are made with a sturdy PVC frame and feature fusion-welded mainframes and sashes. They also offer a wide range of grid and hardware options.
Low maintenance
Premium vinyl windows from brands like Harvey offer the ideal blend of affordability, durability and good looks. They are water and mold resistant and come in a variety of colors and options to suit any home design. They also offer energy efficiency. Some styles, such as double-hung windows, have two operable sashes that slide up and down for ventilation. They feature a stainless steel coil spring balance system for easy opening and closing and energy-efficient Low-E glass.
Another advantage of vinyl windows is that they require very little maintenance, unlike other window replacement options. Unlike aluminum and fiberglass, they do not rust or corrode. They are also a great choice for coastal homes because they resist moisture-related damage, such as mold and mildew. They are a smarter investment than other types of windows and add value to your home. They are also long-lasting, with many lasting more than 40 years. They can even save you money on utility bills by minimizing cooling costs in the summer and eliminating drafts in winter.