Vinyl windows are a durable and affordable option for new and replacement windows. However, at the end of the day, are they worth a homeowner’s investment? How long do vinyl windows last?
How Long Do Vinyl Windows Last?
If you’ve ever installed or replaced a window, you know it can be a pricey proposition. According to some contractor estimates, installing windows in a home can cost between $300 and $1,000 dollars per window. That’s a huge investment in your home! So naturally, you want to make sure the windows you’re installing are going to go the distance.
Vinyl windows are a popular window option for many reasons, including their durability. Vinyl windows are available in a variety of finishes, and typically can be made to match the aesthetic of any home. They’re also one of the most low-maintenance window options, requiring virtually no additional work to clean or maintain. Best of all, other homeowners are aware of the value of vinyl windows, and they can give your home’s value a huge boost when it goes to market. In fact, a full vinyl window replacement job on a house that’s for sale can provide a 75-percent return on your window investment. If you’re looking to replace windows before you sell, vinyl could be a great solution.
But what if you aren’t selling your house? What if you plan to stay there, and maybe even hand it down to a loved one someday? If that’s the case, the value vinyl adds to the home is almost insignificant next to a larger question: How long do vinyl windows last?
Vinyl Windows Can Last for Generations
Good news! Vinyl windows are a great investment for those staying in their homes for the immediate future. Vinyl windows have a lifespan of 20 to 40 years, depending on a number of factors. They outlast many other window types when it comes to performance and durability. However, it is important to note that while a vinyl window should last for up to 40 years, there are factors that can significantly limit that lifespan. How do you buy vinyl windows that will last for the lifetime of your home?
Buy for Quality, Not Quantity
It can be tempting to purchase the cheapest option available, especially if you’re already in the middle of a pricey remodel. Unfortunately, when it comes to windows, what you pay is what you get. Don’t accidentally shortchange yourself by trying to save money upfront. Instead, set a budget for the job and then ask window professionals what they would recommend in your price range.
Check the Warranty
Any time you purchase any kind of hardware for your home, you should give the warranty more than just a casual glance. High-quality vinyl windows will have warranties that cover them for the lifespan you would expect. If a manufacturer skimps on the warranty, they aren’t standing behind the quality of their windows. If the warranty lasts less than ten years, does not include all aspects of the window, or does not cover labor, it’s a sign that you may be purchasing an inferior product.
Pay for Expert Installation
Window failure most often happens because something goes wrong with the hardware, resulting in cracks or moisture seeping inside. More often than not, these issues are caused by a faulty installation process. When you purchase your windows, you should pay to have them professionally installed by experienced contractors. Any other approach is rolling the dice on your investment.
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How long do vinyl windows last? If you buy the right ones, they can last for a lifetime. Not sure where to start? Give us a call today!
Are you in need of high-quality window installation? Check out American Window Company. Since 1999, we have offered an extensive collection of high-quality windows, doors, shutters, blinds, and more. We are a small, family-owned business that is committed to providing excellent workmanship and on-time installation. In addition, we are properly licensed and insured to protect our employees and provide our customers with peace of mind. For a free estimate or more information about our products and services, please contact us today.
