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Windows can last for a long time if they’re well-built and properly maintained. However, not all windows are made to last very long. The best windows are made from long-lasting materials, need little maintenance, have high-quality engineering and energy efficient.
Are you buying replacement windows for your home soon? If so, it’s important to understand what factors play a role in the quality of your windows. Being able to identify quality windows can help you choose the right products for your home.
Not all window frame materials are created equal. Some modern window frame materials, like vinyl, can warp or change shape with time. As vinyl loses its structural integrity and strength, air leaks between the insulated glass and frame can develop. This allows air and moisture into the window, which can start to degrade window seals. Once the materials that join the dual panes of glass in an insulated window begin to fail, you will see the window glazing to become foggy. Not only is this unsightly, but it means your insulated window is not insulating as well anymore. This problem can lead homeowners to seek window repair or replacement over time.
Other types of window materials, like wood, can become rotten over time. Wood only lasts if it’s properly maintained – which is discussed more in the next section. The best window materials are those that won’t deteriorate with time or exposure to the elements.
Windows that aren’t properly maintained have a shortened service life, especially if they’re heavily dependent on that maintenance in order to keep functioning. Wooden windows, for example, deteriorate with time if they’re not sealed or painted for protection against elements like moisture and the sun’s UV rays.
Some modern windows need little to no maintenance. For example, Renewal by Andersen windows with frames made from composite Fibrex material need virtually no maintenance aside from occasional cleaning. Fibrex material never needs to be painted or sealed. It’s naturally water-resistant.
Replacement window engineering has a big influence on the length of time that the window lasts. Windows are complicated home features. Vented windows, like double hungs, sliders and casements for example, can have many hidden parts that allow the window to open and close easily. The design of these individual parts the materials they’re made of and how they are engineered to work together can make a tremendous difference in the durability of the entire window unit. Cheap materials and poor design naturally result in a short lifespan for inferior windows. Windows also need to be properly installed by trained technicians to ensure they operate properly and to avoid leaks that can cause structural weakness, damage and health and safety concerns for you and your family.
The higher the quality of the window, the less likely it is to break, become damaged or cause a leak that could lead to damage in the home. Quality of materials, engineering and installation are the greatest indicators of how long a window will last.
Just because a window is insulated energy efficient doesn’t mean that it will last longer, but homeowners who prioritize energy efficiency are quick to replace highly inefficient windows.
Most replacement windows today use insulated glass, but not all insulated glass is created equal. Modern insulated windows are made from energy efficient glass and materials that provide extra insulation and protection against drafts and air leaks. The more energy efficient your windows are when you purchase them, the longer you’re likely to be happy with your windows as they age.
Make your windows last as long as possible by purchasing proven high quality windows from Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey and New York Metro. Window frames made with long-lasting, energy efficient Fibrex material and low-E insulated glass, Renewal by Andersen windows even come with a 20-year warranty. Call Renewal by Andersen of New Jersey and New York Metro today at (866) 609-5033 or fill out the short form on this page to set up an appointment for a consultation.
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