Do Vinyl Windows Last Longer Than Wood Windows?

If you’re considering what type of windows to have installed on your home, an important consideration is how long you can expect the windows to last. The expected lifespan of the window can be factored in with other variables like the upfront cost and potential energy savings to determine which option will be the best investment for you. Other considerations, such as the aesthetics and maintenance requirements, may also come into play in addition to the financial aspects.

Average Lifespan of Vinyl and Wood Windows

Both vinyl windows and wood windows can vary quite a bit in terms of quality and therefore lifespan. On average, vinyl windows last around 20 to 40 years. Meanwhile, the average lifespan of wood windows is much different. While some companies claim that wood windows can last up to 60 years, others state a much more moderate 10 to 20 years. Because wood is a natural material, its longevity relies heavily on other, external factors, while vinyl windows have more consistent performance across the board.

Factors That Affect the Lifespan of Your Windows

So, what impacts the lifespan of vinyl or wood windows? The first factor to consider is the climate. In areas where homeowners experience a lot of moisture and humidity, wood windows will have a much shorter lifespan. This porous material easily absorbs water and will deteriorate much faster in these conditions. Another factor that affects how long wood windows will last is maintenance. Wood requires a lot of maintenance over the years to keep it looking and performing at its best. When regular maintenance is delayed or skipped altogether, a wood window will deteriorate much faster. On the other hand, vinyl windows are water-resistant and require little to no maintenance over the years.

The quality of the materials used in your windows and the craftsmanship of the build can also impact the longevity of your windows. For example, vinyl windows can be made from either virgin vinyl or recycled vinyl, and virgin vinyl is far stronger and more durable. Additionally, the quality of the installation can also impact the performance and longevity of the windows. An improperly installed window may need to be fixed or replaced again in a matter of a few years rather than a few decades.

Understanding What to Expect From Your Window Options

If you’re wondering how long you can expect a specific window product to last, a useful way to get an idea is to look at the warranty information. Your window company will provide a warranty based on the expected lifespan and performance of the window. Therefore, the longer the window warranty is valid, the higher the quality of the replacement window and the longer you can expect it to last on your home.

As an example, here at ABC Seamless of Cheyenne, we offer and install a virgin vinyl window for homeowners in Wyoming and Colorado. Our replacement windows come with a lifetime warranty that covers the entire window and breaking of the glass. If you compare that to another company offering wood windows with a 20-year warranty, you immediately know which set of replacement windows has the longer-lasting potential.

If you’d like to learn more about how long you can expect vinyl windows to last compared with wood and other window materials, contact ABC Seamless of Cheyenne. We would be happy to answer your questions and provide you with the window replacement services you need.

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