Whether you are building a new home or updating an existing one, the type of windows you choose is a serious consideration. Due to the cost, permanence, and impact of installing windows in a home, every practical homeowner or contractor owes it to themselves to thoroughly research their options.

When vetting candidates for high-quality windows with both longevity and style, the two stand-out options are vinyl and composite. Both materials have their own features, advantages, and drawbacks.

What is a Vinyl Window?

Vinyl windows are a well-established replacement window choice. Vinyl is a manufactured, synthetic material. Ethylene (found in crude oil) and chlorine (found in salt) comprise vinyl windows. When processed, both substances form vinyl, a plastic-like material that guarantees resistance to moisture and rot. Since the 1970s, it has been a popular choice for homeowners and builders alike. New technologies make it more customizable and attractive than ever.

What is a Composite Window?

Composite windows are a relatively new window trend. Composite is a combination of substances such as resin and fiberglass that creates a tough, solid core. The blend of materials that make composite windows is similar to your car’s bumped. But most manufacturers finish them to have the appearance of natural wood. They are long-lasting and easy to maintain.

Vinyl vs. Composite Windows

Strength and Durability

Vinyl windows can withstand extreme temperatures and are more durable than wood and aluminum windows. Vinyl windows last on average about 30 years. Superior-quality vinyl windows, such as those from SoftLite Windows & Doors, are known to last up to 40 years.

Composite windows can also withstand cold climate conditions or excessive heat and tend not to expand or contract due to temperature fluctuations. Generally, quality composite windows have a lifespan of around 40 years.

Cost

Vinyl windows are generally more affordable than composite windows. Total window cost depends on several factors.

Both vinyl and composite windows help you control your energy costs throughout the year. You won’t need to contend with the moisture, peeling, cracking, chipping, flaking, or warping that comes with wood or aluminum windows. This makes either choice in windows more affordable to maintain.

Energy Efficiency

Energy-efficient windows use double and triple panes of glass with gas between the layers to block UV rays and prevent heat loss. The window frame, whether vinyl or composite, creates a tight seal to keep air inside or outside the window.

Vinyl windows are some of the most energy-efficient on the market. However, composite windows always excel in air infiltration performance. They consistently outperform their wood and metal window equivalents.

SoftLite’s vinyl windows feature fusion-welded frames and sashes, while composite windows fasten mechanically. This allows SoftLite vinyl windows to have a better air infiltration rating than composite windows while also offering maximum weatherproofing and superior structural integrity.

Due to vinyl’s forgiving nature, engineers designed interlocks and air barriers that fit right into the vinyl extrusions. Multi-chambered extrusions even allow you to include foam insulation, further increasing the home’s energy efficiency.

Most vinyl windows from SoftLite are ENERGY STAR® qualified, which can save you money on energy costs. ENERGY STAR has awarded SoftLite as “Partner of the Year” every year since 2014.

Appearance

Vinyl windows come in a wide range of colors, styles, and finishes. SoftLite offers 14 standard colors, unlimited custom colors, and white, beige, brown, or wood grain. Vinyl windows can have the look of wood with the maintenance-free attributes of vinyl, and the wide array of color choices is a designer’s dream.

Composite windows are typically only available in styles that mimic the appearance of wood finishes.

Find the Best Windows for Your Home

Choosing between vinyl and composite windows ultimately comes down to your specific needs. Vinyl windows, particularly those from SoftLite, offer exceptional durability, energy efficiency, and a wide variety of styles to enhance your home’s appearance. If you’re ready to upgrade your windows, explore SoftLite’s impressive vinyl window lines and discover how they can transform your living space. Don’t hesitate to find a dealer near you to start making your home more beautiful and energy-efficient today!