When trying to decide which type of window replacement you want, researching different kinds can be overwhelming. Here is an informative article by ENVIROGUARD explaining the similarities and differences between cellular PVC and vinyl windows. Window Replacements of Georgia likes to keep our clientele up to date on products available to them to help make the decisions crystal clear.
Vinyl replacement windows are very common and made using components made of polyvinyl chloride or PVC. Polyvinyl chloride is a combination of different chemicals, plasticizers and pigments. Polyvinyl chloride is also used to make plumbing pipes, electrical pipes, and many other plastic items. Window components for vinyl replacement windows are extruded and contain hollow chambers. The hollow chambers make for a lighter product and easier for welding the components together.
Cellular PVC windows are also made from polyvinyl chloride. However, thru a different type of manufacturing process the components are solid. Cellular PVC is unlike extruded hollow vinyl as it features a foam or cell-structure inside. It can be nailed, sawn and fabricated like wood. The window components (brickmould, sill, jamb, and sash rails) used to manufacture these windows look exactly like wood windows. Cellular PVC windows are solid and stronger than extruded vinyl windows which are thinner and can lead to warping.
Other Differences:
Architectural Style – vinyl replacement windows do not look like wood where Cellular PVC windows have the same architectural moldings as traditional wood windows.
Finishing Options– vinyl replacement windows come in 2 interior colors, white and almond or tan. They are not manufactured to be painted. Cellular PVC windows can be painted to match your interior trim.
Maintenance – vinyl windows will never have to be painted. However, your color choices are limited and the color you choose will be your only future option. Once painted, cellular PVC windows require minimal maintenance and can be re-painted if you change your color scheme.
Glass Space – One major factor to consider is loss of glass space. When replacing wood windows with a vinyl replacement window, there will be a significant loss of glass space. A vinyl window has its own frame and inserts into the existing wood frame of the wood window after the window sashes are removed. So imagine removing the glass from your window, and installing a new enclosed window in a frame where this glass area was. This will result in a significant loss of glass space which will result in a loss of natural light.
When replacing your wood windows, ENVIROGUARD cellular PVC windows are your best option and will give you the highest return on your investment.
Enviroguard cellular PVC windows warrant against:
- • Glass seal failure (20 years)
- • Primer coat peeling, flaking, blistering (10 years)
- • PVC components rotting, warping, corroding (25 years)
We use Super Spacer Warm Edge Technology on our double-hung windows and on all of our radius work. Enviroguard’s high quality craftsmanship, outstanding energy efficiency and low maintenance mean years of comfort, with no worries, for your customers.
Only ENVIROGUARD offers a window series that is resistant to rot and insects, earns Energy Star ratings, is AAMA- and NFRC- certified, and backed by some of the industry’s strongest warranties.
Would you like to schedule a free estimate for a cellular PVC window replacement? Contact Window Replacements of Georgia today!
