While shopping for new windows for your Seattle home, chances are you’ve come across vinyl windows and have heard of their many benefits. Currently, vinyl windows are one of the most widely-purchased window materials in the country, but they weren’t always that way. Vinyl windows are a fairly young material option, being introduced to the market in the early 1970’s. When vinyl windows were initially launched, they were intended to be a more affordable alternative to other materials on the market. Since then they have maintained their economic benefits while gaining a reputation for additional features such as durability and energy efficiency. Here we will be discussing a few key elements that create quality vinyl windows.
Look into the Durability Ratings
While shopping for vinyl windows, it’s important to ensure you purchase a safe and durable product. Fortunately, this can be determined by simply checking a model’s ANSI rating (American National Standards Institute) or it’s AAMA rating (Architectural Manufacturers Association). Both of these rankings set high standards in regards to the quality of a window, making it easy to identify if a window is of low quality.
Check the Color of the Window
High quality vinyl windows contain titanium dioxide, a tin compound that typically brightens the color of the windows. Not only are these infinity windows more appealing to the eye, but they are also more resistant to UV rays and are less likely to become color damaged. You can typically check for these compounds on the model’s label, but if it isn’t included, a manufacturer can usually answer the question for you. However, beware of windows containing a blue tint, as these windows have likely been color preserved with a cheaper method known as tinting.
Check the U Factor of the Window
Vinyl windows are known for their remarkable energy-efficient capabilities, but not all vinyl windows are created equally. To know just how energy efficient a vinyl window model is, be sure to check its label for the U-rating. A U-rating is similar to the “miles per gallon” rating on a car, and is designed to tell you how well a window will insulate your home. The lower the U-rating, the better insulating capabilities of the window. If you can’t find the U-rating of a window, feel free to check with its manufacturer.
The best way to ensure you’re purchasing quality window replacement Seattle is by shopping with the right window company. At Signature Windows we only carry quality windows as part of our efforts to provide top-notch customer service to our clients. If you’re ready to begin shopping for your vinyl windows, our window experts will happily answer any questions you may have while introducing you to the many quality options on our showroom floor. To speak with one of our window experts today, feel free to give us a call at (253) 887-7792.
