What to Expect from Vinyl Replacement Windows Prices

November 29, 2010

Those vinyl replacement windows prices can seem confusing, especially when you get into more advanced features. Understanding what makes up the basis of the price of your new vinyl windows can help you choose which options are really must-haves for your home.

An Explanation of Vinyl Replacement Windows Prices

The prices for vinyl windows are made up of many different factors. A quick and easy way to determine why vinyl replacement windows prices vary so widely is to look at the NFRC label. The National Fenestration Rating Council examines and compares every brand of window to determine several different things, including energy-efficiency. This label can tell you how one brand of vinyl windows stacks up against another.

What will you find on the NFRC label?

• U-Factor. This measures how well the window prevents heat from escaping. The lower the U-factor, the better the performance. A lower U-factor can drive up the cost of your new vinyl windows.
• Visible Transmittance. This measures how much light comes through the window. The higher the number, the more light that is transmitted, and the higher the cost of the window.
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient. This measures how much solar heat comes into the house through the window. The lower the number, the more energy-efficient your window.

The next two factors are optional, and manufacturers can choose not to include them on the label:

• Condensation Resistance. This tells you how well a window resists condensation forming on the glass. The higher the rating, the better the product is at resisting condensation.
• Air Leakage. How much air can get through tiny cracks in the window assembly determines the air leakage rating.

Still not sure how it all works? Ask a window contractor to sit down and explain the things you don't understand about vinyl replacement windows prices.

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