Aluminum Vs Vinyl Windows

Replacement windows usually refer to new windows that mount within the frame of the existing wood window. They are typically made without a structural frame; instead, they rely on the strength of the original window for support.

Purpose

Replacement windows take the place of existing windows when they have become deteriorated, drafty or non-functional. New replacement windows may greatly decrease energy loss and outside noise.

Replacement vs. New-Construction Windows

Replacement windows should be distinguished from new-construction windows. New-construction windows have a "nailing fin" along the outer frame. This fin provides a surface so that the window can be nailed in from the outside of the home before the application of siding or brick and stone veneers. New construction windows can, in some instances, be used as "replacement windows" ...depending on the exterior trim, the window size, and/or the creative skill of the installer.

Replacement windows have no "nailing fin" and can be purchased in stock or custom sizes.. This allows them to be installed with minimal disruption to the existing trim, siding, sheetrock or exterior veneer.

Materials

Replacement windows are available in several materials including wood, fiberglass, aluminum-clad wood, vinyl-clad wood, vinyl, glass blocks and other composite materials.

Benefits of replacement windows

Replacement windows can increase resale value and energy efficiency. Several types of typical windows are listed and discussed here.

Wood Windows were used from the early 1900s to the present but became less of a mainstay of the industry in the 1960s. They are prevalent in the Northern United States. Steel and Aluminum Casements and Steel Vertical Operators were used from the 1950s through the 1960s. Aluminum windows were used in the 1960s through the present. Vinyl windows were established in the 1970s through the present. The last decade has also seen the admission of composite materials such as fiberglass and vinyl-wood-polymer type products.

Wood Windows (historical styling)

Wood "Drop In" Replacement windows and Vinyl Windows are designed to sit in place of the existing sashes and are constructed @ 3 1/4" thickness in most cases. These type windows sit in the opening where the top and bottom sash originally moved in their respective wooden "tracks" The stop between the two sashes must also be removed in this type of refurbishment or retro fit installation. It requires minimal movement of existing trims both inside and out.

The alternative is to replace the entire wood window including jambs. This requires the reworking of interior and exterior wood trim to accomidate the size of the modern wood window. Modern wood windows are available in with 4 9/16" jambs as a standard feature but can be equipped with "jamb extensions" to extend to 5 1/4" or 6 9/16". This is to accomidate the wall thickness as needed.

Modern windows have two panes of glass. This has been the standard since the late 1970s

Modern windows of 2009 can have two or more layers of glass. And the Energy Code sets certain standards for performance of products installed in homes. These codes now require Low - E Glass in all residential homes.

Low-E is a film that is several layers of metal poured microscopically thin over the surface of newly poured glass. This heat reflective film is transparent but can be darker or lighter depending on the type and manufacturer. This data is rated in Visible Light Transmission. Darker glass with heavier Low - E will have less VT. The NFRC Rates most energy star rated window manufacturers.

Low E Glass is up to 4 times more efficient than clear glass

Other options include triple-glazing (a third pane of glass), higher quality spacers between the panes, which reduce the failure rate and conduction that allows seal failure. This creates "fogging" or condensation to form between the panes. Modern windows also have optional gases between the panes that have higher insulative qualities than air, such as argon or krypton gases.

"Double-hung" windows are the most common traditional window. They have an upper sash and a lower sash, both of which slide up and down in the window opening. "Single-hung" windows operatie the same as "double-hung" windows, but their upper sash is fixed in place. By virtue of being stationary and permanantly secured Single Hungs are often more energy effecient that Double Hung Windows depending on the type and style.

Most Vertical Operators (Single and Double Hungs) now feature "tilt-in" sashes for cleaning of the exterior surfaces. The industry moved towards this approach for service and replacement reasons as well as accessability to the exterior from the inside of the home.

Casement windows are hinged on one side and are typically operated using an interior hand crank. Awning and Basement windows hinge on top and bottom respectively.

Sliding windows, or "sliders", are sometimes used in openings that are wider than they are tall.

Non-operable or "fixed" windows also called "Picture Windows" are common in larger openings.

Retro-Fit Replacement windows are custom manufactured to fit finished openings in sizes down to 1/8" or 1/4" in most cases. Builders Grade windows are constructed in specific sizes depending on the manufacturer. Wood windows also have "Standard Sizes" that determine the installation and application. Custom sized wood windows are a rarety but are the most expensive of modern window products.

In 2009, the United States Federal Government passed a stimulus package allowing a 30% refund on purchases up to $5000 for qualifying energy saving products purchased in 2009 and 2010. This includes insulation, radiant barrier, air conditioning upgrades and most energy efficient replacement windows and doors.

Actual requirements can be found at www.energystar.gov.

Deficits of replacement windows

Due to the heavier weight and increased thickness of insulated glass, window frames in replacement windows can be thicker in visual profile, thereby reducing glass area. This is not universally the case.

References

1. ^ www.NFRC.org

Vinyl Window Frames vs. Aluminum Window Frames -

Compare the sound stopping quality of aluminum window frames to vinyl window frames. Find out which is better.

...

Aluminum vs Vinyl Windows

When you’re updating your home you’ll have to consider the advantages of aluminum vs vinyl windows.

...

Vinyl Windows vs Aluminum Windows

Thermal Industries Vinyl Windows VS Aluminum Windows; Thermal Industries Vinyl Windows: Aluminum Windows: Maintenance-free--never requires painting, sanding or refinishing.

...

Aluminum vs Vinyl for Phoenix -- U-factor question - All about ...

Aluminum vs Vinyl for Phoenix -- U-factor question - All about replacement windows and doors. Window Discussion Board.

...

Aluminum vs. Vinyl Windows & Doors | Triton Window Distributors

Triton Window Distributors sells and installs Miami Dade County approved PGT windows and doors Silverline and Delta Door products. Hurricane impact resistant windows protect you ...

...

Ultrex vs. Vinyl - Integrity Windows

Ultrex vs. Vinyl ... Roll-form aluminum windows or windows with aluminum substrates transfer heat and cold into a ...

...

All about replacement windows and doors. Window Discussion Board ...

Aluminum windows by Vinyl Windows ... Aluminum vs Vinyl for Phoenix -- U-factor question by Azbearoh

...

Soundproof Windows - Eliminate Your Noise Problem

SOUNDPROOF WINDOWS are what you need for sound ... Sliding Glass Doors | Real Estate Advantages | Storm Windows | Aluminum Vs. Vinyl Windows | Dual ...

...

Brand New Windows - Replacement Windows - Aluminum Vs Vinyl Windows

Brand New Windows - Replacement Windows - Aluminum Vs Vinyl Windows related information and resources.

...

WOOD VERSUS VINYL WINDOW | Replacement windows, Bay Area Windows, Home ...

Compare aluminum vs. vinyl windows by Windsor windows, Crestline windows, and other leading www.ebuild.com. Plastics News - FYI charts. Vinyl window market growth in resin usage ...

...