Vinyl Windows Vs Aluminum Windows

For past decade and half, residential users have started preferring vinyl windows over any other types of windows. But is it better than aluminum windows? The following extract is going to compare the two to find out which is actually better.

Home decoration can sometimes a very intimidating task. Many times, home decorating involves replacing windows. This will invariably trigger the debate vinyl windows vs aluminum windows or vinyl windows vs wood windows or even vinyl window frames vs. aluminum window frames. It will encompass issues such as cost, performance, climatic reaction and aesthetics.

Whenever you are choosing any window for your home, obviously you have to choose it according to the ambiance of your home. If the theme of your home demands aluminum windows, there is no point in choosing anything else. But if you have a vinyl flooring, then whats the point of choosing aluminum windows?. Vinyl windows and aluminum windows have certain pros and cons over each other. But in the end, its just a matter of choice.

Vinyl Windows

Advantages of Vinyl Windows
This is the most popular window type. Hence they are widely available. The vinyl windows are the most inexpensive windows that are available in the market. There are no maintenance issues as well. Vinyl windows never require painting and are not affected by moisture as well. Certain vinyl windows come with insulated core. This allows them to be sound-proof and be thermally insulated as well.

Disadvantages of Vinyl Windows
Vinyl windows have to be cleaned very routinely. Maintenance of these windows is very less but you have to deal with a lot of window cleaning. Lubrication of the hinges is also a task that you cannot fret away from. There is no variety in colors. You will probably have to choose from white, tan and bronze. The most important disadvantage of all is that vinyl windows are environmentally hazardous. This is so because vinyl windows are made up of polyvinyl chloride (PVC). This chemical cannot degrade and is hence very dangerous for the environment. Vinyl replacement windows cost is more than aluminum cost.

Aluminum Windows

Advantages of Aluminum Windows
Most of the window manufacturing companies do not know anything about noise resistance. They are under the pretext that vinyl windows offer better insulation to noise than that of aluminum windows. But, this is not a fact. Aluminum does score substantially over the vinyl windows in this regard. Vinyl windows need to be considerably thicker than aluminum windows for the same dimensions. The main advantage of the Aluminum windows is that it is easily replaceable. Read more on replacement windows.

Disadvantages of Aluminum Windows
Aluminum windows cannot escape the bland look that metallic windows have. And look plays a very important part in home decor. The energy efficiency of these windows is also very low. Meaning they gain or loose heat very rapidly. Aluminum windows have a condensation problem. The morning dew will settle in the windows causing it to rust. There are also very few commercial suppliers available in the market. So availability can be a problem at times. Aluminum windows can be very difficult to order as well.

After knowing the various aspects of these windows, if you are still debating on vinyl windows vs aluminum windows, then let me tell you that this debate is never ending. Replacing aluminum windows with vinyl windows is purely a matter of taste. Professional help in solving the issues may help. But ultimately, its your own decision. Changing windows is the first thing that you can think in home improvement.