Thanks to their affordability, vinyl windows are one of the most popular options in the market. However, they’re not necessarily the most cost-effective. Vinyl windows have their advantages, but in most cases, their cons outweigh their pros. 

Renewal by Andersen®, your go-to company for windows and doors, elaborates on their pros and cons below: 

The Pros of Vinyl Windows 

• Low-maintenance needs – Thanks to their resistance to common window issues such as rust, vinyl windows have fewer maintenance needs than other windows. Keep in mind that low-maintenance doesn’t mean no-maintenance. To remove dirt and debris that have accumulated on its surface, vinyl windows need to be washed using a mild cleaning solution. 
• Wide variety of design options – Vinyl windows come in a wide variety of designs and colors. 

The Disadvantages of Installing Vinyl Windows 

• Poor insulative capabilities – According to the Department of Energy, heat gain and heat loss through windows are responsible for 25% to 30% of your heating and cooling costs. Installing energy-efficient windows and French doors can help lower electricity costs. On their own, vinyl window frames have poor insulative capabilities. That’s why manufacturers need to add insulation to vinyl window frames. 
• Sensitivity to temperature extremes – Vinyl windows aren’t the best choice for homes in temperate climates. That’s because when exposed to extreme temperatures, vinyl window frames contract or expand. Any movement in the window frames is a cause for concern because it can damage the window sealing and interfere with the windows’ opening mechanism. 

Consider Alternative Windows 

Given that the disadvantages of installing vinyl windows far outweigh the benefits, we recommend choosing other types of window materials. If you’re looking for an energy-efficient window replacement, you might want to consider choosing windows made from Fibrex®. It’s an exclusive wood-and-vinyl composite with excellent insulative capabilities and resistance to extreme temperatures. 

Renewal by Andersen® of Long Island offers a wide variety of quality doors and windows, including patio doors and Fibrex windows. To schedule a free consultation with one of our design experts, call us at (866) 609-5033 or fill out this form. We serve homeowners in Long Island and the surrounding communities.