In this article, we’re sharing the top 5 features to look for in a quality vinyl window. These are the features that will save you money, time, and headache when you buy your windows and for years to come.
We are also really excited to share that we’re now offering ProVia vinyl windows in the Raleigh, NC area! ProVia is a brand that has impressed us by offering each of these critical vinyl window features.
In fact, we’re so delighted by ProVia that we recently talked with Kevin and Ron on the Your Valuable Home podcast about all the things we’re loving as a new dealer of this vinyl window brand. You can listen to our discussion here.
Or, read on to learn the top 5 features that we encourage homeowners to look for when selecting a vinyl window.
1. Top-of-the-Line Materials
From the vinyl to the glass, top tier vinyl window manufacturers use only the best materials. In the past, vinyl windows were prone to warp, discolor, and become brittle with age. Now, with advances in materials and manufacturing, homeowners can find nearly indestructible vinyl windows that are energy efficient, too.
We especially love the SunShield vinyl that ProVia uses. This vinyl meets or exceeds (depending on the window) the standards for strength and color retention established by the Fenestration and Glazing Industry Alliance.
2. A Warranty that Won’t Let you Down
Window warranties can be tricky.
Some companies will offer a ‘Lifetime warranty’, leading homeowners to believe that their investment in their home is protected for the rest of their lives. But if you read the fine print, sometimes these warranties only cover “the expected lifetime of the window”. We’ve seen these sorts of “Lifetime” warranties cover windows for as little as three years!
Additionally, many window warranties are not transferable if the homeowner moves. So, even if you buy a home with brand new windows, the warranty protecting them may be void because you didn’t purchase the windows.
We have found that ProVia offers some of the most robust warranties we’ve seen for vinyl windows.
For most of their products, this includes a Lifetime warranty that covers the windows for the lifetime of the owner. This warranty also allows for one transfer, and extends for the lifetime of that person. This duration of warranty is truly rare in the vinyl window world!
Of course, you should always confirm the details of your specific window warranty with the company you’re purchasing from. For various products, the warranty duration may be different for the glass versus the vinyl for example. It’s always important to know the specific warranty limitations for the exact window you’re purchasing.
3. Exceptional Packaging
As a window dealer, there’s nothing worse than receiving a shipment of windows and hearing the telltale sound of broken glass. When windows arrive damaged, it means more headaches for homeowners in the form of construction delays.
While it’s not a guarantee, we typically don’t see breakage during transport on windows that are packaged in cardboard boxes. Alternatively, we do sometimes see damage in transit to windows that are packaged with only shipping wrap.
That’s why we recommend that customers purchase vinyl windows from companies like ProVia, who package their windows in boxes.
A ProVia employee reviews quality of new vinyl windows before preparing them for shipping.
A ProVia delivery driver prepares boxed vinyl windows for freight shipping on a ProVia truck. ProVia uses their own drivers and trucks to ensure that materials are handled properly at every step.
4. The Benefits of Vinyl, Without the Unsightly Seams
We talk to countless homeowners who love the durability and affordability of a vinyl window.
But, they just don’t love the look of them.
The top complaint is the unsightly welded sash corner that many vinyl windows feature, as shown here.
We love that ProVia uses their proprietary FineLine welding process to create clean weld lines. This feature comes standard on ProVia’s Endure line of vinyl windows.
Close-up of a ProVia Endure vinyl window highlighting the FineLine sash seam welding.
5. Design Options
Of course, when it’s time to replace your home’s windows, you want to find a great looking window. That might mean looking for windows that come in unique sizes, or ones that offer a wide array of color options. Many vinyl window companies stick to white windows in stock sizes.
This can make some homeowners believe that their design choices are limited if they want a vinyl window.
We love to share with customers that companies like ProVia offer vinyl windows in a variety of colors and finishes. This lets homeowners create exactly the look they want with their new vinyl windows.
ProVia Endure double hung window in the color ‘Nightfall’.
Summary
Knowing the vinyl window features to look for can help you get a great deal on a quality product.
We’ve helped thousands of homeowners in the Triangle find the windows they’ve loved, and we’d love to help you, too!
Use the form below to tell us about your project. We can’t wait to help you find the windows you’ll love.
