Vinyl windows are an awesome option for homeowners looking to improve the energy rating of their home and spend less on heating costs due to the high level of insulation they provide. Vinyl windows can also be designed to closely mimic wood, allowing them to add to the aesthetic appeal of your home. However, not all vinyl windows are created equal. Follow these tips for choosing a high-quality vinyl window that will be able to hold up over time and won't need a lot of repairs.

1. Check the Sash and Frame Extrusions

Sash and frame extrusions are the parts of the window that are sticking out from the main part of the window. Because they are sticking out, there's a chance that they might not be as sturdy as the rest of the window. This can be problematic because weak extrusions are easily broken. In order to make sure that you won't find yourself repairing or replacing these extrusions every year or so, make sure that the extrusions are connected to the rest of the window through the use of welds.

To locate and identify welds, you need to look for the joints of the window. If they are flush against each other, then that means that they were glued together rather than welded together. This means that they will not be nearly as strong. If you find the joints and there's a thin strip of putty, this means that they were welded and will be strong.

2. Make Sure That Your Glass has Double Panes

If you're serious about making sure that your house is energy efficient, then you need to purchase a window that has double panes because this means that there will be a spacer between the panes that will hold the inert gas that will give the window its insulation properties. Without having double panes, your window will function like a normal window, rather than provide insulating properties.

3. Make Sure That Your Window Is Certified By Energy Star

Energy star ratings mean that the window has undergone rigorous testing and is definitely going to provide a high level of energy efficiency. Without this rating, the claims of the window manufacturer don't have anything to back them up and might be inaccurate. Purchasing an Energy Star certified window gives you the peace of mind that your window will do what the manufacturer claims.

For more information, talk to retailer that sells vinyl windows like Beissel Window & Siding.

Share