Homeowner’s Guide to Vinyl Windows

If you’re shopping for new or replacement windows, you’ve likely stumbled upon vinyl window offerings. So what are the advantages of vinyl windows? How are they made? What features and options do they come with? We’re here to help you understand vinyl windows so you can make your big decision.

Known for their easy care and energy-efficient features, Pella vinyl windows come in a number of window types across various product lines. Pella vinyl windows give you exceptional performance and curb appeal. Today, we’re answering your top questions regarding vinyl replacement windows to help make the product selection process easy and smooth from start to finish.

The advantages of vinyl windows are plenty. One of the biggest advantages our vinyl windows offer is exceptional energy efficiency. Pella's exclusive energy-saving system is made up of triple-pane glass, insulating foam and up to 18 insulating air chambers. Triple-pane glass is 62% more efficient than single-pane windows.⁶ And our vinyl windows contain significantly more insulating air chambers than ordinary vinyl.

Another advantage of vinyl windows is that they are low-maintenance. Easy-care vinyl frames require no painting, staining or refinishing and stay looking great for years. Plus, the fully welded sashes and frames on Pella vinyl windows add strength and durability.

Pella Hurricane Shield Series products are engineered to withstand hurricanes and the most stringent coastal requirements — all while providing exceptional everyday performance. From noise control and blocking UV rays to security against intruders, they provide unwavering protection for your home and everything inside.

Pella Defender Series^TM windows are always ready to handle storm. Engineered to help protect you and your home, our impact resistant windows withstand hurricanes and increasingly stringent coastal requirements. You can count on these high-performance windows every day to deliver improved noise reduction, excellent energy efficiency and security against intruders. And with nearly 100 years in the business, you can trust Pella has you covered.

Pella® 250 Series windows are also available in a variety of colors and are up to 77% more energy efficient than single-pane windows.⁷ Their multi-chambered vinyl frames and reinforced sashes also make them 52% stronger than ordinary vinyl.⁸ Enjoy more peace and quiet with triple-pane options that reduce outside noise or choose AutoLock hardware for enhanced security. The 250 series includes awning, casement, double-hung, single-hung and sliding windows.

Encompass by Pella® offers affordable windows that are easy to care for. Features like between-the-glass blinds and grilles make everyday life a little easier. Encompass by Pella® includes double-hung, single-hung and sliding windows.

Pella vinyl windows are comprised of multi-chambered vinyl frames with optional foam insulation for added energy efficiency. Insulating double- and triple-pane glass with argon gas further enhances the energy efficiency and durability of our new and replacement vinyl windows. And we are so confident in the construction of our products that all vinyl windows installed in owner-occupied single-family homes come with a limited lifetime warranty.

If your vinyl window is in need of repair, the first step is to request a service visit. During the visit, a Pella service representative can diagnose the problem and determine how to address the issue. Should you choose to do the window repair yourself, always make sure you remove the outer sash that holds the window in place.

Regularly cleaning your windows is one way to help improve their longevity and keep windows functioning properly.

When replacing vinyl windows, there are two installation methods to choose from. The first is called a pocket installation. In this method, only the sash of the old window is removed and the new window slides neatly into the existing frame. This is a great option if you want to try and preserve existing trim or are replacing a similar-sized window into the opening.

A full-frame installation method removes the entire window, including the window frame and trim. This method allows for greater design flexibility, as you can change not only the window, but also the frame and trim colors and styles. This method takes longer and requires more work both inside and outside the home, but includes the installation of a new window, trim and insulation. This can be an especially ideal choice if energy efficiency is a concern.

Vinyl windows are a low-maintenance, energy-efficient and budget-friendly choice for new or replacement windows. With three product lines to choose from, as well as many of our most popular features and options, Pella vinyl windows offer homeowners versatility.