Shopping for the right replacement windows in Long Beach, CA can be overwhelming. There are so many options on the market and it all starts with choosing the right window material. Get that wrong and the entire project could be a bust. How do you know which options will be the best for your budget and your home? Here is some information on one of the most popular window materials—vinyl.

What are Vinyl Windows?

Vinyl window frames are manufactured from high quality polyvinyl chloride (PVC). It is a construction-grade material with specific additives to make it strong, durable, and UV resistant. A few compounds to look for on the ingredient list include organic tin and titanium dioxide.

Advantages of Vinyl Windows

These are some of the main benefits of vinyl windows:

• Vinyl windows are manufactured with multiple, interlocking chambers to trap air and prevent heat transfer. If you look at a cross-section of a vinyl window you will be able to see how many chambers there are. More chambers mean higher quality and better insulation.
• Vinyl windows do not require a lot of care and maintenance. The material itself only needs to be washed with water and mild detergent to keep it looking new. And the finish will not rot, rust, or fade due to exposure to the elements so there is no need to repaint.
• Vinyl windows have quality construction and the best vinyl windows will have welded corners. The sealed corners last longer and help to prevent air leaks.
• Vinyl windows are easier and faster to manufacture. This is because the material is so versatile. These windows can also be made to fit the exact size of an opening, making for easier installation.
• Vinyl windows are some of the most affordable products in the window market. Why? Because they are easy to make, easy to ship, and easy to install.

Disadvantages of Vinyl Windows

Here are some of the drawbacks of vinyl windows:

• Vinyl windows are not paintable. The color you choose for your windows is the color you get for the duration. While this is good for easy maintenance, it isn’t good if you like to change things up.
• Vinyl windows expand and contract due to temperature changes. This movement can break the seals where the frame meets the glass on vinyl windows and result in air and moisture leaks.
• Vinyl windows have wider frames and a lot of people think they look too synthetic. For this reason, some homeowners and contractors tend to shy away from these products.

Hopefully, this information answers some of the questions you may have had about vinyl replacement windows in Long Beach, CA. Is this the best option for you? Sit down with one of our window professionals at Seaport Windows and Doors. They can walk you through the pros and cons of each material and help pin down the right products for your home. For information call (714) 220-3939 or stop by 4201 Katella Ave., Los Alamitos, CA 90720.