When it comes to making a decision on the type of replacement window to select for the home, there are a multitude of options to consider. From glass packages to window styles, the choices can seem daunting. However, according to contractor Mark Clement, host of the MyFixitUpLife home improvement radio show, the decision on which frame to select is the easiest choice.

“Vinyl window frames are the slam-dunk choice for replacement windows,” said Clement. “Their low maintenance aspects, insulating value and appearance make them the ideal selection for all styles of homes across America.”

Clement, who has installed Simonton vinyl windows in his own historic home in Pennsylvania, believes the days of scraping, staining and painting wood windows are gone. “Old-school wood windows have such high maintenance requirements that their popularity has dwindled significantly in recent years,” Clement said. “With vinyl windows all that’s needed is a quick washing to keep them looking new year-after-year.

“Some homeowners insist they like the look of real wood in a window. I tell them terrific … check out the realistic woodgrain laminate options on vinyl framed windows and save yourself all the maintenance hassles associated with real wood!”

Clement cites the Decorum by Simonton product options as a way to achieve the look of wood on vinyl windows. Interior woodgrain laminates are available on these vinyl home windows in Oak, Cherry, Maple and other wood species. And, on the exterior, homeowners can choose a multitude of color options such as Pine, Bronze, Brick, Chocolate and Driftwood to complement the home’s style.

“Vinyl window manufacturers have made such significant advances in the look of vinyl windows and the options available to homeowners over the past decade that they meet design, energy and budget needs like never before,” said Clement. “Best of all, the woodgrain laminate interiors and exterior colors on these windows will never peel, chip or need to be stained like solid wood windows. And, vinyl resists abrasion, salt air, corrosion, termites, rot and air pollutants—all of which negatively affect wood windows and mean constant upkeep.”

Value of Vinyl Windows

For most homeowners, costs play a major role when considering the purchase of replacement windows—both in the price of the units themselves and in their long-term return-on-investment with energy savings.

“Vinyl windows are a solid investment for the home,” said Clement. “They’re at least 10 percent less expensive to purchase than wood windows and they offer great insulating value which can help reduce energy bills.

“The fusion-welded corners on the Simonton vinyl windows I installed in my home are tremendous. Combined with a strong glass package, these windows are extremely energy efficient. We actually saw our energy bills drop starting the month after I installed these windows in our house.

“Buying energy efficient vinyl homes windows that are ENERGY STAR qualified is always a smart choice for a homeowner. There are so many architectural styles, configurations and choices available to homeowners with vinyl windows that they’re a top choice from the outset for me. Combine design options, great looks and even hardware choices with cost and maintenance savings, and you’ve got a mix that is hard to beat!”

For more information, visit www.simonton.com.