When it comes to windows, no two products are exactly alike. This is especially true for vinyl windows. There are so many factors to consider. Here is what you must look for in the best vinyl windows on the market:

Top Notch Material

One thing to consider when choosing vinyl windows it the quality of the material. Each manufacturer has their own unique recipe for polyvinyl chloride (PVC). This construction grade material will have plasticizers, pigments, chemicals, and other additives to make it strong, durable, and fade-resistant. For example, organic tin is a stabilizer. It helps prevent decomposition and makes the material more resistant to daylight. With this ingredient the vinyl windows will not heat, weather, or age as quickly. Another key element might be titanium dioxide, which brightens the white shade of the vinyl and reduces fading and yellowing.

Multiple Open Chambers

When deciding on vinyl windows, ask to see a cross section of the frame. This should reveal a number of interlocking chambers of differing sizes. The more chambers you see, the better the vinyl window. These chambers add support and strength. But also during the installation process, the crew will fill the empty spaces with a special insulation that will dramatically improve the energy efficiency of your window.

Frame Thickness

While looking at the cross-section, another things to consider is the width of the vinyl. For the most part, thicker vinyl is stronger and holds up better over the years. If you choose the thicker material, the frame cannot only hold more weight, but will also be more stable.

Seamless Corners

Next up, you want to examine the frame construction. Vinyl windows are typically built in two ways. One involves fastening the seams with screws, brackets, and caulking. As you might imagine, this doesn’t always hold up over time. In fact, the windows can break as early as in transit from the manufacturer to your home. Instead you want to look for fusion-welded seams. For this the manufacturer cuts the vinyl, heats it, and then attaches it. The chemical bond goes all the way down to the molecules, forming an unbreakable joint.

Outstanding Energy Ratings

Last, but not least, look at the labels. The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) tests every window product on the market and attaches values for specific performance. The numbers you want to pay close attention to include the U-Factor, Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC), and the Air Leakage number. For all of these values, the lower the rating, the better the performance.

BONUS: The Warranty

Nothing says quality like a company that will stand by their product. If you get a lifetime warranty for your vinyl windows, you know where the product stands as far as quality and durability.

Best Vinyl Windows in Chicago, IL

Getting quality vinyl windows in Chicago, IL starts by choosing products from a company you can trust. At Scientific Home Services we have more product knowledge than most of our competitors. Why? Because we take the time to thoroughly research each brand, each collection, each product so our customers get only the best. Still not sure about what to look for in top notch vinyl windows? Call us today at (847) 752-0370 or stop by 7240 Saint Louis Ave., Skokie, IL 60076.