Q–My house desperately needs new, replacement windows. They must be maintenance free and colorful. I like vinyl but am disappointed in the limited selection of exterior colors for vinyl windows. Is there an alternative? How do you compare different window brands for overall performance? Will the new windows solve my current condensation problem?
A–Vinyl windows are an excellent choice. If you purchase high-quality vinyl windows, your window maintenance headaches will vanish. You are not the first person to be displeased with the limited exterior color variety of vinyl windows. However, now you can purchase a replacement window that will offer you the warm feel of vinyl on the inside of your home and unlimited exterior color possibilities.
When vinyl window materials get hot, they can expand and deform. Dark vinyl colors absorb and store the most heat. This quality is fine during the winter but high vinyl temperatures in the summer can cause problems. The stored heat can cause the vinyl frames and sashes to sag under the weight of heavy glass. Because of these potential problems, manufacturers tend to shy away from using dark vinyl colors.
Certain window companies have decided to combine two maintenance-free materials, aluminum and vinyl, into one window. Now you can purchase a window that has an aluminum exterior and a vinyl interior. The aluminum exterior is available in a variety of light and dark colors. Custom colors are also available. Painted aluminum finishes can last 15 years or more with minimal color fade. The aluminum frames are an excellent choice if you live in a high-wind area or desire a window that resists forced entry.
The interior of vinyl windows has changed as well. You are not limited to merely a white or cream color. Many manufacturers offer a realistic stained-wood appearance. Some actually have the texture of wood while others allow you to custom stain the interior vinyl, wood-grained surface.
While window shopping, ask about custom beveled glass. It can add a handsome touch to your home.
Judging the windows’ quality and performance will require some effort on your part. Years ago, two independent associations, the American National Standards Institute Inc. (ANSI) and the American Architectural Manufacturers Association (AAMA) joined together to produce voluntary specifications for vinyl window manufacturers. They developed a standard called the ANSI/AAMA 101-93. If you purchase a window that is certified to have passed this standard, you are getting a good quality window. Windows that meet the ANSI/AAMA 101-93 standard often have a certification label on the frame.
Another organization is working hard to establish a fair, accurate and credible energy performance rating system for vinyl windows and other window and door products. It is the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). It has developed a label that is similar to the ones we have seen for years on household appliances. These new labels will have a single number that will tell you how well the window performs in both cold and hot weather. You will see a number from 0 to 10 in each category. Poor-performing windows will have a rating at or near zero. The NFRC is working out the details to make sure that all types and sizes of windows are tested fairly and accurately. If all goes well, you will begin to see these helpful labels in 1998.
Your condensation problems may not totally disappear with your new windows. Your existing, drafty windows allow dry, cold air to enter your house. This dry air mixes with the humid indoor air and lowers the overall humidity in your house. When your new windows are installed, the air infiltration will be significantly reduced and your indoor humidity will soar. On the coldest winter days, this extra humidity just might cause a fog on your new windows. To stop the condensation, reduce the humidity inside your home.
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Have questions about the remodeling process? Write to Tim Carter, c/o The Chicago Tribune, P.O. Box 36352, Cincinnati, Ohio 45236-0352. Questions will be answered only in the column.
For a list of manufacturers of combination aluminum/vinyl windows, 10 purchasing guidelines for buying quality vinyl windows, and other tips on preventing window condensation, send $2 and your name and address to Tim Carter at the above address. Ask for Builder Bulletin No. 191.
For a list of past Builder Bulletins and a wide variety of individual job bid sheets, send a business-size, stamped, self-addressed envelope to the same address.
