Window replacements can be an intimidating home improvement project to take on. Not only can new windows be expensive, but the products you choose need to be capable of lasting at top performance for as long as possible—while providing top energy-efficiency, functionality, and beauty for decades to come. Vinyl windows are the most popular selling material for replacement windows of all time. Affordable and reliable, high-quality vinyl windows are an all-around amazing choice and can be a hand-down solution for many homeowners that want a cost-effective and valuable option. 

At DreamHome, Inc., our DC window company helps our customers make the best decisions on their window replacements—and aim to take the stress and hassle out of the process with cost-effective pricing, products from trusted manufacturers, and professional installations. In this blog, we’ll discuss why vinyl windows are one of our top selling products at DreamHome, Inc., and how long these products last compared to other materials.

The Lifespan of Other Popular Window Materials

There are a few important factors to take into consideration when comparing windows. Here are two popular options to consider and compare next to vinyl when shopping around for DC window replacement: 

Wood: For example, wood windows—which are still a popular option despite their more expensive cost and very high maintenance needs, can last a hundred years or longer. Then again, they will only last that long if they’re extremely well taken care of, which means repainting and re-staining them every few years among other actions. Because most people are unwilling or incapable of giving wood the attention it needs to last a lifetime, wood windows can have a very short lifespan—especially in the DC area, where the weather can be very wet. Water and humidity are wood window’s worst enemies, and it can be incredibly difficult to keep from warping and rotting and needing replacement. 

Aluminum: Another popular option is aluminum, which isn’t affected by the issues that wood windows are. Aluminum windows won’t rot or warp and won’t develop mold or mildew around the frames like wood will when it gets wet. They can rust easily, however, and will need to be wiped down after storms or even condensation builds up on them. If you take great care of your aluminum windows to keep them dent-free and dry throughout the year, your windows can last up to 25 years or longer. 

What About Vinyl Windows?

Vinyl windows can last thirty to forty years or much longer and with very minimal maintenance, depending on the quality of the products and installation you choose. This is especially good news for homeowners in the DC area, who experience humid summers, freezing, wet winters, and storm seasons all year long. Because vinyl resists moisture, mildew, and mold, homeowners that choose this option will need to spend far less time worrying about or caring for their windows. Unlike wood, vinyl windows won’t fade quickly or need repainting or restaining. And unlike aluminum, vinyl windows stand strong against impacts and won’t dent or scratch in a hailstorm. 

Other Benefits of Vinyl Windows

There’s no question that vinyl windows cost less, require less maintenance, and can last a very long time. Beyond these great benefits, there are other features to love about vinyl windows—especially if you’re living in the DMV. The first and best benefit that homeowners should be aware of is their energy-efficiency performance. Vinyl windows, especially foam-insulated vinyl window frames keep energy loss at a minimum. Greater energy-efficiency means lower energy bills, improved indoor comfort, and less pressure on your HVAC system. 

Another great benefit is that vinyl windows can be painted in a number of beautiful colors, patterns, and even textures. They can be customized to suit the style of your home, or to resemble wood grain with a finish that looks very similar to real wood—without the high maintenance or expensive costs of the real thing. 

Gorgeous, Affordable Vinyl Windows in D.C.

If you’ve been thinking about replacing your home’s single pane, deteriorating wood or aluminum windows with brand-new vinyl replacements, we can help. DreamHome, Inc. is one of the DMV area’s most trusted DC window replacement companies, with twenty years of experience making homes better, more functional, and more beautiful every day. 

For information about premium vinyl replacement windows and our installation services, give our team a call today to learn more. If you prefer, you can also sign up right away for a free, in-home consultation and pricing estimate now by filling out our DC window company’s online form.