People are quickly catching on to the big value in home renovations. In recent years, Americans have spent more than $320 billion annually on home upgrades.
And the right windows can completely change the look and feel of a home. But not everyone knows about one of the top choices out there: vinyl windows.
Are vinyl windows good? What makes Milgard vinyl windows worth a second look? We’ve put together a guide to vinyl windows for anyone looking to add window upgrades on a home.
What Are Vinyl Windows?
Vinyl windows are made up of a plastic material called polyvinyl chloride, or PVC. The material has several flexible, yet resistant qualities.
And PVC is known for having a high R-value. The R-value is a way of measuring how good a material is at insulation. That means vinyl is resistant to heat flow and a good material for keeping a house insulated.
Why Replace Windows
Window replacement can bring in big returns for homeowners. In fact, some experts say replacing vinyl windows can bring in a return on investment of more than 70 percent. That makes it one of the easiest ways to up the value of a home.
But this value isn’t just in making a home look better. Replacing windows can keep heat in a home, make a house more efficient, and cut down hassles.
However, not all window upgrades have the same benefits. And there are many material options when it comes to windows.
Here are some common types of windows:
- Fiberglass
- Wood
- Aluminum
- Steel
- Composite
All of these materials have unique features, but for homeowners there are several things that set Milgard vinyl windows apart.
What Makes Milgard Vinyl Windows a Top Choice
When it comes to windows vinyl has become a hot commodity. In recent years, vinyl windows have claimed as much as 58 percent of the residential window market.
What’s causing this boom in demand?
Here are the top reasons savvy homeowners are turning to Milgard vinyl windows:
Functionality
Many vinyl windows can be easily swung inside when it comes time for cleaning. This can be a big advantage for homeowners who want flexible window options.
For instance, if a homeowner has windows above ground floor, upkeep with other window types can be a pain. Milgard vinyl windows can cut out the need for ladders or harnesses.
Energy Efficiency
Windows can be a gateway for air to escape a house. And that means they can drastically affect a home’s energy bills. In fact, most homes lose about 30 percent of their energy through windows.
Virgin vinyl is known for keeping a home insulated. And the material is designed to cut down heat transfer. That helps to keep a home cooler in the summer.
Other materials, like metals, can actually work as a conductor of heat.
Instead, homeowners with vinyl windows can keep heating and cooling costs down.
Easy Maintenance
Upkeep is a must for most types of windows. That might mean staining, polishing, or refinishing. But vinyl windows are easy to maintain.
Usually, a homeowner can get a fresh look by simply wiping down a vinyl window with a damp towel. For more thorough vinyl window cleaning, grab a brush and simple cleaning supplies.
No Painting, No Sealing, No Hassle
When putting in other types of windows, homeowners usually need to add sealant. Paint is often another must that needs to be refreshed often.
Vinyl windows have an advantage because once they’re installed, they’re set. Homeowners don’t have to fuss over added steps.
Lower Costs
Vinyl windows tend to cost less to make. And they’re much easier to install than most alternatives.
That means they’re less expensive and a good bang for your buck option. They also tend to last a long time, so owners save on upgrades.
And they’re a solid way to keep air in the house, which saves on the price of heating or cooling.
Weather Resistant
There aren’t many materials that beat vinyl in harsh weather. They’re built to stand up to rain, snow, sleet, and sunlight.
They are water resistant and equipped with UV protection. That means they won’t chip and peel.
It also means homeowners don’t have to worry about repainting or staining.
Style Variety
Vinyl material lends itself to a variety of style options. It comes in a range of colors. And cuts include everything from awning to picture style.
That means homeowners aren’t necessarily tied to a specific look.
Durable
Vinyl windows are known for their durability. But that goes for exposure to both hot and cold.
And materials like wood are susceptible to cracks. That’s because it’s easy for water to seep in spaces and expand.
Vinyl windows are also made of an especially fire-resistant material.
Milgard vinyl windows are long-lasting because they’re made in-house. They also feature non-corrosive materials.
Noise Reduction
Milgard vinyl windows can absorb outside noise and dampen the sound entering a house. That’s because they tend to use a relatively thick material.
And they’re well insulated, which helps keep drafts as well as street noise out.
Customizable
Vinyl is much more flexible material than wood or metal. That means it’s easier to mold into different shapes.
This makes vinyl a highly customizable option. That’s because manufacturers have more design options at their disposal.
Easy Installation
Vinyl windows are much easier to install than materials like aluminum.
It’s because they are made of a flexible material. That makes it easier to work with, since it contracts and expands.
With more rigid materials, an imprecise measurement can completely botch a job. Although it’s a good idea to have a professional put them in, it’s much easier for a homeowner to learn how to install vinyl windows than other types.
And easier installation usually means lower costs when pros put them in place.
More on Vinyl Windows and Beyond
This guide to Milgard vinyl windows shows why they’re worth considering during the next window upgrade. But we have much more info on windows and doors.
Check out our blog here for the latest window and door tips, tricks, and trends.
.jpg)