Why does the government let vinyl windows to be sold?

Hey there, homeowners! Today, we're diving into a hot topic: vinyl windows and doors. Vinyl windows have always been viewed as an inexpensive solution to replacing deteriorating, drafty-old wood windows – sometimes even existing vinyl windows.  

Homeowners need to be aware that if you ask a vinyl window salesman if he thinks your windows are in bad shape and should be replaced, he of course, will tell you that they do. He sells vinyl windows for a living. He probably doesn't know how to repair wood windows, therefore, in his mind, they must be replaced.  

Windows are the "eyes" of any structure. And when they are wood windows, they convey a sense of hand-craftsmanship and detail that cannot be achieved with substitute materials – especially in aged and historic properties. Now windows are typically replaced if they begin having operational problems: they stick or rattle, latches break, glass is broken, sash cords break and the windows have to be held open with a stick, they let in too much outside air, or my personal favorite, they need to be painted.  

So lets discuss why you should think twice before buying vinyl windows and doors. The inherent problems with vinyl windows are many and varied; but by far the most insidious is this: once this "rip out and replace" cycle begins, it continues for the remainder of the homes life.  

Here are just a few of the problems associated with vinyl windows, and why they're not "maintenance-free."  

• While it's true that they don't require painting (I don't think you could/should paint them if you wanted to), they are not a rigid material like wood, thus they shrink in cold weather, and expand in hot weather. What does this mean to you? It means that at 165 degree Fahrenheit, your windows will begin to soften and distort. And believe it or not, 165 degrees is easily reached in the space between a window and drapes on a sunny day (winter or summer). And though all windows expand and contract with temperature changes, vinyl expands more than twice that of wood. It expands seven times farther than glass with each degree of temperature. This will cause the seal between the vinyl framework and the glass to fail. The problem increases with the size of the window; the bigger the sash, the sooner it fails. So it's safe to say that over time, vinyl windows will start cracking, and fading, especially in extreme weather conditions. This means more frequent replacements and repairs, costing you more in the long run. 

• Next, there's the issue of insulation. Vinyl windows often have hollow frames, which can result in poor insulation compared to wood or fiberglass alternatives. This can lead to higher energy bills as your heating and cooling 

• Can a vinyl window be repaired? So vinyl windows have only been around since about the late 1950’s. Will they survive for a hundred years? Nope! Studies prove that vinyl windows fail at an alarming rate. Here is a fun fact - Roughly half of the replacement windows sold in the United States are vinyl and some of these windows come with a 10, 20, 30 year, or even a lifetime warranty. And, with so many manufacturers, when warranty time comes, will they still be around? NOPE! The constant in the industry is that the company goes out of business or is purchased and the new purchasing company buys the assets, NOT the “liabilities”! 

• A significant point is environmental: wood is a renewable resource, unlike vinyl, which is a petroleum product. When you speak environmentally, you’re also speaking of energy efficiency and vinyl windows are not be as green as you think. The production of vinyl involves harmful chemicals and releases toxins into the environment. And when these windows end up in landfills, they don't decompose, contributing to long-term environmental pollution. Vinyl, also known as PVC (polyvinyl chloride), can release harmful chemicals like dioxins, phthalates, and volatile organic compounds (VOCs) during its production, use, and disposal. These chemicals are linked to serious health issues, including respiratory problems, endocrine disruption, and even cancer. Exposure to these toxins can be particularly concerning indoors, where we spend most of our time. Poor indoor air quality can lead to long-term health problems for you and your family, making vinyl windows a less attractive option when you consider the potential health risks. 

• There is a lot of limited customization with vinyl windows and doors. These windows and doors come in fewer styles and colors compared to wood, fiberglass or aluminum options. If you're looking for a unique aesthetic to match your home's design, vinyl might not give you the flexibility you need." 

• Lastly, resale value. Homes with high-quality, durable windows like wood or fiberglass tend to have a higher resale value. Potential buyers often view vinyl windows as a lower-end option, which could affect your home's marketability and overall value. 

So, while vinyl windows and doors might seem like a cost-effective choice upfront, the long-term drawbacks can far outweigh the initial savings. If you want durability, energy efficiency, customization, and better resale value, consider alternatives like wood, fiberglass, or aluminum. 

Thanks for watching! If you found this information helpful, make sure to like, share, and follow for more home improvement tips. Remember, investing in quality windows and doors can make a big difference in your home's comfort, value, and even your health. See you next time!