How Long Will New Vinyl Windows Last For
Strathcona County Homeowners Before
They Need Replacement Windows?

There Are More Variables Than You
Might Think For Window Lifespans

If you’re looking at your old windows, or you’ve just gotten replacement windows in Strathcona County, you might be wondering: How long do vinyl windows last? Whether you’re looking at your neighbors’ shiny new windows or a freshly installed replacement window of your own, it’s a good question.

The answer depends on what the windows are made of and how well they’re cared for.

Types Of Vinyl Windows

You may think all vinyl windows are created equal – but they’re not. While the material a window is made from affects how long it’ll last, the quality of that material carries just as much weight in the equation.

Recycled Vinyl

Recycled vinyl windows are common in the Alberta area. If you’re not sure what your windows are made from, there’s a high chance it’s recycled vinyl.

These windows are made by melting down pellets of many other vinyl products and forming them into a window frame. This is a cost-effective way to make windows, but it has its drawbacks.

With a mix of vinyl from different sources and of varying quality, the composition of recycled vinyl windows isn’t uniform. This makes them susceptible to certain issues.

Warping, uneven discoloration, and even becoming brittle over time are all common with recycled vinyl. That’s because the varying types of vinyl in the frame react to things like heat and sun differently, causing the windows to wear out or expand unevenly.

Because of these factors, most basic recycled vinyl windows only have a 10-20 year lifespan. After this point, you’re likely to find that your windows are less attractive and no longer energy-efficient. The warping recycled vinyl is prone to make seal failure common.

Virgin Vinyl

Virgin vinyl doesn’t suffer from the same problems as recycled vinyl. Its composition is totally uniform because it’s all made from the same fresh batch of vinyl. This means it isn’t nearly as susceptible to the warping and aging of recycled vinyl.

Virgin vinyl is the material that established vinyl’s reputation for superior energy efficiency and durability. When cared for properly, virgin vinyl windows can last 30-40 years – or more!

Caring For Vinyl Windows

If you want to take advantage of your window’s potential longevity, it’s a good idea to educate yourself on vinyl windows’ maintenance. This may help you get a few more years out of recycled vinyl windows if you already have these installed.

More importantly, after your windows are replaced, you can use these techniques to keep them looking great for many years to come.

Luckily, vinyl windows are much easier to maintain than materials like wood, which require frequent sanding and refinishing.

Cleaning

For vinyl windows, you’ll want to give them a good clean at least twice a year. It’s up to you when you do it, but spring and fall are popular times because of the comfortable temperature. Plus, you don’t want your cleaning products (and hands) freezing during the winter.

This is one of those tasks that’s easy to forget, so pencil in some time in your calendar or set a reminder on your phone if you need to. Some homeowners tend to just clean the glass and neglect the window frames.

Don’t make this mistake! Cleaning vinyl window frames can make a serious difference in your windows’ longevity. Vinyl windows don’t even require harsh chemicals. Instead, use simple soap and water to make your windows look great again.

Lubrication

Like anything with moving parts, your windows will need lubrication now and then. Whenever your windows seem a little harder to open, use a lubricant to grease hinges, latches, tracks, and any other moving parts.

Weep Holes

Weep holes are an often overlooked part of window construction. These little openings at the bottom of your window frame drain away excess moisture, protecting your windows from water damage. Locating your weep holes and making sure they aren’t clogged or blocked can help your windows last longer.

If you buy good vinyl windows and take good care of them, you can expect 30 years or more of great performance and beautiful views. If you have low-quality windows that have been around for 10-20 years, though, you might want to start researching window companies now.

Knowing who to call when your windows fail can make a big difference. If you need replacement windows in Strathcona County, want to know how to take care of your new windows, or just want to get to know us better, contact GreenFox Windows and Doors at (587) 809-5694 (NORTHERN AB) (825) 862-0070 (SOUTHERN AB) to chat or price your project.