FAQ

FREQUENTLY ASKED QUESTIONS ABOUT VINYL REPLACEMENT WINDOWS

• • WILL I LOSE GLASS AREA WITH A VINYL REPLACEMENT WINDOW?

Compared to wood and metal windows, you will lose glass area. That’s one of the trade offs for getting more energy efficient windows. With many of our competitors, you could lose a lot. Our windows are designed to give up to 27% more glass viewing area than our competitors. Learn more about glass area.

• • • DO I REALLY NEED INSULATED FRAMES?

To insulate your frames or not to insulate. Do you need insulation in the exterior walls of your home? For a more in depth answer check out this discussion about replacement window frame insulation.

• • • • HOW SECURE ARE VINYL REPLACEMENT WINDOWS?

Our Vanguard Windows have fiberglass inserts in the top of the outside sash. In addition, our locks have to been tested to withstand the largest amount of force in the AAMA forced entry test.

• • • • MY OLD WINDOWS ARE DRAFTY. HOW DO VINYL WINDOWS MEASURE UP?

The biggest dirty little secret when it comes to replacement windows. Learn more about how most new vinyl replacement windows are almost as drafty as the ones they replace.

• • • • WILL I HAVE CHOICES OF COLORS AND OTHER OPTIONS?

Our preferred window partner, Sunrise Windows and Doors offers the most window options. From unlimited color choices to blinds between the panes of glass and most everything in between, “You CAN always get what you want!”

• • • • ARE TRIPLE PANE WINDOWS NECESSARY WHERE I LIVE?

It really depends on how much energy efficiency you actually need. Prior to this year, most triple pane windows weren’t really designed for the climate in our Charleston, Savannah, Hilton Head and other Lowcountry areas. We get more specific about the double pane versus triple pane argument in this post.

• • • • HOW MUCH SHOULD HIGH QUALITY, EFFICIENT VINYL WINDOWS COST?

What windows should cost truly depends on a number of factors. For a complete treatment of this important issue, check out this discussion on the cost of replacement windows.

• • • • WHAT DO I NEED TO LOOK FOR IN A REPLACEMENT WINDOW WARRANTY?

Simply put…look for specific words and the amount of fine print. Words like “limited” warranty, pro-rated, or non-transferable should scare you. Look at our post on understanding a replacement window warranty for specifics.