Vinyl impact windows are becoming more prevalent in the impact resistant market but still cost 20 to 30 percent more than impact resistant aluminum.
Vinyl windows vs aluminum windows in florida.
The thickness of the material generally causes the window to experience fewer chips and cracks but are still not as strong as aluminum.
Vinyl windows feature the same qualities but are significantly better insulators against heat and cold.
Vinyl is an all around aesthetically pleasing window that can be designed to fit just about any decor or design style in a home.
Aluminum windows are extremely light weight making them a common choice for use in high rise apartments condos and other large buildings.
For aluminum window frames to insulate well they need what is called a thermal break in which the two halves inner and outer are held together by a non metal insulating material.
The new impact resistant windows are very secure.
The wood grain appearance on vinyl windows is a popular alternative to actual wood which is more problematic than either vinyl or aluminum.
It s also superior to the painted surface of aluminum windows.
The case for aluminum windows aluminum framed windows while a popular choice in florida lack energy star ratings but most experts maintain that the u factor is not that important here and current florida codes ignore it.
Here in south florida most consumers are going with aluminum impact windows schaffer says.
Some manufacturers even make vinyl frames that closely resemble wood.
The costs will involve these factors.
Disposing of recycling old parts.
Vinyl windows have a return on investment of around 74 which is one of the best investments that can be made in a home.
If you re thinking that vinyl may be a better fit for your home that currently has aluminum windows you can replace your windows with a retrofit frame.
Vinyl windows insulate better than aluminum windows.
Vinyl is superior to aluminum windows in resisting corrosion in coastal environments.
Vinyl windows excel when it comes to insulation and improving energy efficiency because the vinyl material minimizes heat transfer.
Aluminum windows along with almost all other windows have a return on investment of around 60 to 80.
The color is a part of the vinyl material which makes it scratch resistant.
Vinyl replacement windows never need scraping painting or staining so they retain their timeless beauty throughout the years.
While you will recoup some of your money with aluminum windows you will recover more money with vinyl windows.
The labor to remove the old units.
Vinyl windows come in a variety of colors and styles.