Month: June 2021

Windows are an integral part of any home-a household’s ‘eyes’ to the outside world. You may need to factor in a few key decisions when searching for the right set for your house. Top among them is the material for the frame and the sash.

Whether shopping for new construction or replacement windows, your material choice comes down to several different options. Wood and aluminum windows are popular options. Fiberglass and vinyl windows are the two most popular artificial materials. How do these materials compare for use on window frames, and which is the best option overall?

Vinyl windows are made from polyvinyl chloride as the base material. Vinyl is America’s go-to option, with over 20 million units sold annually. Fiberglass frame windows cut out a niche for themselves, selling as the most energy-efficient material. Fiberglass is made from polyester resins impregnated in glass base material and then molded into shape.

Here is a comparison guide to help you pick out the right window material.

1. Design Aesthetic

While both materials may appear similar at a distance, fiberglass offers a wider range of decorative options than vinyl windows. Fiberglass is stronger, requiring less material than vinyl for the same stress levels. The thicker vinyl frames reduce the glass space, meaning less natural light. Fiberglass can also be textured to resemble wood and comes in a wider range of colors and styles.

2. Installation

If you are reasonably confident of your skills with a power drill, you can install vinyl windows for yourself. Vinyl is slightly flexible, making it easier to install than rigid fiberglass. Fiberglass windows may need professional window installers after ordering from the manufacturers. Vinyl frames are available in pre-made standard sizes at most home improvement stores.

3. Strength and Durability

Both fiberglass and vinyl windows tend to outlast wood, as they are resistant to chipping, cracking, rotting, and denting. However, fiberglass frames are up to eight times stronger than vinyl, making them more durable. Good quality vinyl windows have ratings for up to 30 years with proper care, while fiberglass can last up to 50 years.

4. Energy Efficiency

Both materials have a higher R-insulating value than wood. The glass base material-similar to that on window panes- means that the fiberglass frame and the window glass expand and contract at the same rate. This makes fiberglass up to 15% better at insulating than vinyl as the more energy-efficient material.

5. Cost

Vinyl replacement windows are more affordable than both fiberglass and wood materials. Fiberglass is cheaper than wood but slightly more expensive than vinyl. Vinyl windows can be roughly 10-30% cheaper to buy and install. The average cost ranges between $700-$800 for vinyl and $900-$1100 for fiberglass.

6. Maintenance

Both types of windows are typically low maintenance. You do not have to worry about cracking and warping. You can easily scrub the grime away with a hard brush and water. Painted fiberglass windows may require a fresh coat when they fade.

Both fiberglass and vinyl windows are excellent products for your replacement project. Vinyl’s strengths are in the costs, ease of installation, and low maintenance. Fiberglass windows are preferable when looking for aesthetics, strength, and energy efficiency.

Sliding patio doors give you the ability to open up your space invitingly and elegantly. No matter which style you choose for your home or business, you want to make sure they last for years to come. With the proper care and service, patio doors can last more than 30 years.

Sliding Patio Doors That Work Properly

A sliding patio door should be as easy to open as your favorite beverage. Ease of opening is just as important as your family or guests that walk through these doorways. A sliding patio door works appropriately if:

• You don’t have to force it to open.
• The door does not swing slightly off the ground from left to right.
• You don’t have to lift it, then slide it.
• You don’t have to jiggle it.

Performing DIY Sliding Patio Door Maintenance

Sliding patio door maintenance can take less than 10 minutes. Routine care should be done in the spring and fall or every time you notice debris building up in the track. Disinfecting the handles and high-touch areas can be done as often as you feel is necessary. Don’t be in a hurry with these steps to avoid accidentally pinched fingers.

1. Start by vacuuming out the track crevices both on top and on the bottom. Do this when the door is closed. Open the door and repeat on the other side. Remove as much pet hair, paperclips, trash, or other debris as possible.
2. Wipe down the top and bottom tracks with a damp cloth while the door is both in a closed and open position. Ensure the fabric or sponge is not wet but damp enough to remove residual dust and dirt the vacuum left behind.
3. Wipe down the glass with your favorite glass cleaner. Wipe the handles with your favorite disinfectant.
4. When the tracks are dry, spray the tracks with a high-quality silicone lubricant spray. Don’t over-lubricate. Lubricating the slide helps prevent rust and corrosion.
5. Test the sliding patio door by moving it back and forth to make sure it works with ease.

Tips for Advanced Cleaning

If you’re physically capable of it and it’s safe to do so, consider removing the sliding patio door from its rollers to access the entire track. If you spot any rust or corrosion on the track or rollers, consider using some steel wool to scrub it off. If you see any cracks or cannot remove the rust, consider contacting a qualified sliding patio door repair expert for assistance.