Aluminum vs Vinyl Home Windows | Which Is Better?

What's the difference between vinyl and aluminum windows? Jeff goes through their unique characteristics and shares the scenarios in which they would perform the best.

LINKS:

Chapters:
00:00 - Intro
00:41 - Introduction to vinyl windows
01:53 - What makes quality vinyl windows
02:19 - Difference between vinyl and aluminum windows

[dianedacccord]

I'm from Canada. I have a person coming tomorrow for the 2nd time to discuss changing my windows. My house is over 4000 square feet. I've felt so overwhelmed by this project. I watched 2 of your videos and I feel so much better prepared - thank you. Don't worry, I will watch more!

[JonPaul-go]

Jeff, what an informative presentation. Thank you for making this information readily available. I saw your video with Panda Windows + doors at the Vegas show, very enjoyable. Thank you

[joshuawebster]

Great info, Jeff....always like seeing your vids!

[Daniel_Ho_Status_]

If you ever run out of content, I wouldn't mind seeing a video of the hidden details in how windows deal with thermal expansion and contraction. You'd think they'd all shatter or jam if they got too hot or cold.

[jackietaylor]

Forced entry is a great point...plus pre wired security system needs metal contacts

[summerhunt]

After I watched your video, I made up my mind to install Vinyl windows. Thank you.

[matthewhurley]

Do you find that foam insulation in the frame makes a large difference in the energy transfer? Performance ratings I’ve seen for various manufacturers shows it as minimal change and I assumed it was more of a marketing ploy. Love your content as a window/door specialist myself.

[joellebowitz]

What about foam injection into the aluminum frame? Also if aluminum is installed brick to brick in upstate NY where it can be rapid weather exchanges how much of a gap should I leave for expansion

[Jeffzzz]

What would a good recommendation be for a thin profile, as much glass as possible but lives in Chicago where we see up to 100 in the summer and up to -30 with wind chill in the winter?

[brentdaglish]

What about uPVC like Aluplast (I'm in NZ). Why do you still use a product with plastic in it in the USA?

[pollyhughes]

Thank you for your excellent, informative videos.

[BethKaleida]

What material and patio door configuration (slider, French door, or one fixed panel with single hinged door are the options) would you recommend for a south facing coastal location? We get a good bit of wind and brackish/salt spray in storms and the door is in the sun most of the day.

[francescadire]

What about durability? Won't aluminum last double the time of a PVC window? So even if aluminum is less energy efficient if you're not replacing it as quickly isn't it more worth it? (ps: Im from Canada so deal with more cold weather)

[stalkingwhitetiger]

How much side play should double hungs have? So when wundow is open, can you move the window lateral. Is it normal?

[Hammyankee]

What are your thoughts on PGT low e windows ?

[marilynsauceda]

Exactly what I needed! Also explanation of Windstorm requirements for the 13 counties. Do you need impact windows? I have 1980 aluminum single hung windows. Some companies only sell vinyl or double hung. I need three panes of glass? What’s tempered? Need that too bc they’re less than 18” off the floor. So confusing My Windstorm ins company says they have no requirement.

[hcouk]

Can you export to Antigua? And Hurricane proof

[Evolutionhurricaneshutters]

Aluminum is easily recyclable while PVC is not. That's why it ends up in landfills and continues to pollute groundwater.

[jovandesmond]

where can i learn to build upvc windows ?

[TripleZme]

Is there a real difference between vynil windows that are 3 1/4" or 4 1/2" or even 5"? Im being told its really a marketing gimmick?