Vinyl Windows – A great choice for your home

Modern windows are a remarkable achievement of engineering and manufacturing. They keep the weather and insects out of the home while keeping the heat and air conditioning in. They require no painting or adjustment, just cleaning and they function flawlessly for years. It’s easy to take them for granted, but anyone who has struggled with old wood windows will appreciate the differences.

Modern windows modular, made up of different components that are assembled together. This has several advantages; they can be made in almost any size or shape, and repairs can easily be made when needed. The next few blogs will explore the different components that are in a vinyl window, and how they are manufactured.

Manufacturing of the Vinyl Frame

Raw Material Preparation

The primary material for vinyl windows is polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a type of plastic known for its strength, flexibility, and resistance to weathering. The base vinyl for the windows is white throughout, with UV inhibitors and other stabilizers to ensure the windows can withstand sun and precipitation.

Extrusion

The vinyl is then extruded into the profiles that make up the frames and sashes of the window. The vinyl compound is heated in an extruder until it becomes a pliable molten material and then pushed through a die, which shapes it into specific profiles for window frames, sashes, and other components. The profiles are immediately cooled using water or air to solidify their shape and then are cut into standardized lengths for further processing.

The window profiles are engineered with multiple internal chambers. These chambers improve the insulation value by creating air pockets that reduce heat transfer. For added strength and rigidity, some profiles include metal reinforcements within the chambers, especially in larger windows or those subject to high wind loads.

Assembly of Frames

After the profiles are extruded, they are assembled into window frames. The profiles are cut to length and the frame corners are welded together. Welded corners are melted and fused, creating a seamless, durable joint. Drain holes are drilled and slots are routed for hardware installation.

Thermal Unit Installation

The glass used in a vinyl window is an assembly called an insulated glass unit, made up of two or more panes of glass spaced apart and sealed together around the perimeter. The space between the glass panes is filled with an inert gas. This provides a much greater R value than a single pane of glass. The IGUs are installed into the assembled vinyl frames. Gaskets, adhesives, or glazing beads secure the glass within the frame, ensuring an airtight and watertight fit.

Hardware Installation & Finishing

Window locks, handles, hinges, and other hardware are installed onto the frames or sashes. These components are critical for the window's functionality, including opening, closing, and locking. For operable windows like double-hung or sliding types, balancing mechanisms (such as springs or rollers) are added to allow smooth and easy operation. Flexible weatherstripping is applied to the frame and sash to create a tight seal, preventing air and water infiltration.

Brickmould and jamb extensions are installed if needed. If a custom colour has been ordered, the windows are also painted at this time. The quality control process ensures that no window is shipped with any flaws, and they go off the dealer for installation.

Advantages of Vinyl Windows

• Energy Efficiency: The use of multi-chambered profiles, insulated glass units, and weatherstripping ensures excellent thermal performance.
• Customization: Manufacturers can create windows in various shapes, sizes, and finishes to suit different architectural styles.
• Durability: Additives like UV inhibitors and stabilizers enhance the weather resistance of vinyl windows, ensuring they last for decades.
• Cost-Effectiveness: The streamlined manufacturing process allows for efficient production, making vinyl windows an affordable option for homeowners.

Quality Homes & Renovations is a dealer for Gentek vinyl windows. We’ve installed thousands of these over the years and can attest to their durability and function. Our employees purchase these windows for their own homes, which should be enough to convince you of their value.

Gentek vinyl windows are suitable for new builds or replacement windows. Be sure to call Quality Homes & Renovations when you are thinking about replacing windows.