Vinyl Windows

1. Vinyl Windows Windows are one of the most important items in your Orange County home, beyond the aesthetics. Put in the best windows you can afford. A vinyl window can be inexpensive, durable and remarkably energy efficient when designed properly to minimize thermal transfer. While early vinyl windows had problems with thermal expansion and stability in very hot environments, modern vinyl windows are much more durable and dimensionally stable. Vinyl window frames are made from polyvinyl chloride, commonly known as PVC, the same plastic used in plumbing and electrical pipes. Several chemicals, fillers, plasticizers and pigments comprise PVC, all of which are available in different grades of quality. Better vinyl costs more. When shopping for vinyl frame windows, look at a cross section of the frame. The frame has multiple chambers of different sizes. More chambers means higher quality. Good-quality frames and sashes have more chambers to avoid deformation due to vinyl melting from the sun’s heat. Screws, brackets and caulk, or welding are the two methods used to assemble frames. Caulked seams can break during shipment. Welding, on the other hand, chemically reacts with the PVC to form a smooth vinyl seal. Look for additional features such as reinforced meeting rails and balanced systems that indicate higher-quality windows. For more info 21stdoors.com .