While much is made of modern manufacturing processes improving the quality of many products, to some extent the old adage that “they don’t make them like they used to” does apply. This is certainly the case with vinyl windows and if you don’t go through a thorough enough selection process and choose a quality product when having a window replacement done, you could be paying out for another vinyl window replacement a lot sooner than you had hoped.
What Not to Do When Buying a Vinyl Window Replacement
We’ve worked with many home and business owners in Toronto, Markham, Richmond Hill and Durham over the years and we’ve been tasked with removing and replacing vinyl windows many times. On some occasions, the windows we removed had only been installed 3 – 5 years previous and in that time serious faults had already developed, which demonstrates why it’s very important to choose wisely when shopping for a new vinyl window replacement. Here are a few tips to help you:
- Always See the Windows in Person – There’s a common misconception that all modern vinyl windows are built to last, but that simply isn’t true. There is an enormous difference between the best and the worst vinyl windows that are available and it’s imperative that you go to a show room to actually see and touch a sample before giving the contractor the green light. Images in a catalogue or on a web page simply aren’t enough to base such an important decision on.
- Check the Quality of the Windows – Do they appear flimsy and weak or strong and durable? Which of these characteristics do you think is going to stand up to the testing weather conditions (as well as regular use) that we experience in Toronto? If a vinyl window replacement feels weak and flimsy in the showroom, that’s not going to change once it is installed at your home. Cheaper vinyl windows that are produced from poor quality materials will likely bow and deform over time.
- Are They Energy Star Certified – One of the main reasons that so many property owners select vinyl windows, aside from their tolerance of extreme conditions, is the fact that they do a better job at insulating the property and therefore make it more energy efficient. The Energy Star certification is proof that the window has been manufactured to a certain standard and is able to maintain a high level of energy efficiency once installed.
When shopping around for a vinyl window replacement it’s vital to adjust your mindset to view it as a long-term investment rather than a short term cost. While cutting costs and opting for cheaper vinyl windows might be tempting, this will almost certainly end up costing you more in the long run through higher energy bills and the need to replace the windows with greater frequency. For further advice or to obtain a quote, contact Superior Home Improvements.