Vinyl window replacement is becoming popular for both new and old homes. Vinyl windows will allow you to update and upgrade your residential property while staying within a reasonable budget. Furthermore, vinyl windows in Ottawa make worthwhile investments because of their durability and potential energy-efficiency.
But amidst all of the above benefits of vinyl windows, you may find yourself asking, “how long do vinyl windows last?” It’s definitely a key question to ask before choosing any kind of window. In this article, we will talk about the frequently asked questions about the lifespan of vinyl windows, such as the following:
- How long do vinyl windows last? (Lifespan of vinyl windows)
- Is vinyl a good material for windows?
- How to extend the life of your vinyl windows?
- How does proper window installation affect how long do vinyl windows last?
- And more.
Let’s begin!
What is the Lifespan of a Vinyl Window?
Vinyl windows have a window frame made mainly of the rigid, chemically resistant, and durable plastic compound known as uPVC or unplasticized polyvinyl chloride. Being made of a type of plastic, however, it’s common for homeowners to wonder, “how long do vinyl windows last?” To answer this, the lifespan of a vinyl window averages anywhere from 20 to 40 years.
In fact, vinyl windows can easily outlast wooden windows (lifespan of 10-20 years) and aluminum windows (lifespan of 20-25 years.) This is why sturdiness and longevity are two of the well-known winning qualities of vinyl windows.
In addition, vinyl windows go head-to-head with expensive fibreglass windows in the market, in terms of durability and premium quality. The bonus is that vinyl windows are much more cost-effective to install and easier to source.
Is Vinyl A Good Material for Windows?
Alongside the impressive lifespan of vinyl windows, these windows are also some of the most low-maintenance and fade-resistant window types in the market. Made of 100 percent pure virgin Unplasticized Polyvinyl Chloride (UPVC), vinyl windows have these main benefits, therefore making them excellent window materials:
- Vinyl windows do not warp, rot, rust, or corrode when exposed to different harsh weather conditions
- Vinyl windows are not susceptible to termite or mould infestations, which are all common problems encountered in wooden and metal windows.
- Vinyl windows that are manufactured from 100% virgin uPVC offer even more protection and resistance to fading.
As a homeowner, you are already making a wise investment by simply choosing vinyl windows for your house. The longevity of these windows alone will help you save. Furthermore, vinyl has great insulating properties, making them an ideal material for energy-efficient windows. Durable, stylish, and has great insulation - what’s not to love about vinyl windows?
Best Ways to Extend the Life of Your Vinyl Windows
Perhaps we can all agree that 40 years is a long lifespan for the low-maintenance, fade-resistant, and potentially energy-saving vinyl windows. However, there are a number of proactive and preventive measures that you can do if you want to help your vinyl windows last this long (or longer).
1. Proper Cleaning of Vinyl Windows
Cleaning vinyl windows is straightforward and easy. As far as regular maintenance goes, this is all these windows really need. Follow these tips:
- Use warm soapy water from mild detergent for window frames.
- Avoid the use of high-powered washers and abrasive detergents and chemical formulas, which may only cause surface scratches and cracks.
- Brighten up your vinyl window frames with a quick wipe of Soft Scrub vinyl surface cleaner.
- Never clean your vinyl windows, either the frame or glass panel, while they are directly exposed to sunlight. The soap-based cleaners may have a chemical reaction and leave an unsightly stain that may be difficult to remove.
For more information, please read how to properly maintain your vinyl window.
2. Protective Sealant and Glazing for Vinyl Windows
In most cases, it is extreme weather conditions that can truly take a toll on your windows. So when purchasing vinyl windows, ask your provider about the available options for protective sealant and glazing. Here are some excellent examples of features to look for:
- Easy-clean glass: This is a special coating designed to make rain slide off the glass panels. This means no annoying watermarks and less window cleaning for you.
- Clera’s signature glazing technique and Hydraglass 50™ technology: The pride of Clera Windows, these technologies allow us to confidently offer a lifetime warranty to all of our vinyl windows with sealed glass units.
How Does Proper Window Installation Extend the Lifespan of Vinyl Windows?
Aside from getting vinyl windows from a trusted manufacturer, it’s crucial for the vinyl windows to be properly installed as well. A professional vinyl window installer, such as those in our team here at Clera Windows + Doors, will be able to point out structural damages or issues that need to be addressed before window installation could take place. These issues can negatively impact the vinyl window (or any kind of window) if left unaddressed prior to installation. This further emphasizes why getting trained window installers is a must if you want long lasting vinyl windows for your home.
Why Do I Need to Look At the Warranty of Vinyl Windows?
Though vinyl is a great material for windows, not all vinyl windows are made equal. The following factors depend on the manufacturer of the vinyl windows:
- The purity of the uPVC used for the window frame
- The material used for the window’s hardware (i.e. galvanized steel would be the best)
- The technologies incorporated in the window glass itself to make it durable and leak-free
So how do you know you’re buying high-quality vinyl windows for your home? Aside from looking at the manufacturer’s track record and years of experience in the industry, look at the vinyl window warranty as well. The warranty shows you the manufacturer’s own confidence in their vinyl windows. For instance, here at Clera Windows + Doors, we offer a lifetime warranty that is also the most comprehensive in the industry. It is pro-rated and fully transferable for all vinyl window components, including hardware and glass. This is because we’re confident in the quality of each vinyl window we manufacture.
How Do You Know When It’s Time to Replace Your Old Windows?
Check out these tell-tale signs that say you should get new vinyl windows for your home soon.
- Lack-lustre windows - Do you feel your home is losing its aesthetic appeal? Vinyl windows are an excellent choice because they come in elegant timeless designs perfect for any home style and an added boon since they last up to 40 years.
- High energy cost - Old windows that have warped and faded over time could be allowing drafts and offering you poor insulation, making your heater work overtime during the winter and your air conditioner during the summer. If you notice a spike in your bills, it’s definitely time for new vinyl windows!
- Condensation - Tired of condensation or moisture on old leaky windows? Modern vinyl windows have argon gas and warm-edge spacers that help to lower condensation whilst also controlling humidity at home.
- Outdated and malfunctioning windows - Do you still have those old-fashioned single-pane windows that are terrible at insulation? Or worse, do you have rickety windows that are troublesome to close or open? These are clear indications that it is time to replace these windows as soon as possible.
- More noise coming from the outside - Old windows tend to let in more noise from the outside. By getting high-quality vinyl windows with insulated glass, you will be able to shut out more outside noise.
Long-Lasting, Stylish Vinyl Windows For Your Home
In this guide, we answered “how long do vinyl windows last?” along with other related frequently asked questions about the lifespan of vinyl windows. And if you’re looking for vinyl windows that will serve your home for years to come, we got what you need!
Clera Windows+Doors offers a wide selection of stylish and high-quality vinyl windows. In addition, we’re with you every step of the way - from initial cost estimate, customization according to your specifications, manufacturing, installation, down to after-sales service. We’ll take care of everything for you. Schedule a free consultation today by contacting us!
