Cellular PVC Replacement Windows
Cellular PVC windows are the no-rot alternative to wood windows. Cellular PVC replacement windows have all the natural characteristics of wood, including great appearance and they won’t rot, peel, splinter, decay, nor absorb moisture.
EXOVATIONS® is proud to offer ENVIROGUARD™ rot proof cellular PVC windows.
ENVIROGUARD pioneered the use of cellular PVC for double-hung windows, stationary windows, casement windows, radius windows, and custom millwork windows for foyers and entry systems.
Cellular PVC vs Vinyl Windows
Vinyl replacement windows are very common and made using components made of polyvinyl chloride or PVC. Polyvinyl chloride is a combination of different chemicals, plasticizers and pigments. Polyvinyl chloride is also used to make plumbing pipes, electrical pipes, and many other plastic items. Window components for vinyl replacement windows are extruded and contain hollow chambers. The hollow chambers make for a lighter product and easier for welding the components together.
Cellular PVC windows are also made from polyvinyl chloride. However, thru a different type of manufacturing process the components are solid. Cellular PVC is unlike extruded hollow vinyl as it features a foam or cell-structure inside. It can be nailed, sawn and fabricated like wood. The window components (brickmould, sill, jamb, and sash rails) used to manufacture these windows look exactly like wood windows. Cellular PVC windows are solid and stronger than extruded vinyl windows which are thinner and can lead to warping.
Other Differences Between Vinyl Windows and Cellular PVC Windows:
Architectural Style – vinyl replacement windows do not look like wood where Cellular PVC windows have the same architectural moldings as traditional wood windows.
Finishing Options– vinyl replacement windows come in 2 interior colors, white and almond or tan. They are not manufactured to be painted. Cellular PVC windows can be painted to match your interior trim.
Maintenance – vinyl windows will never have to be painted. However, your color choices are limited and the color you choose will be your only future option. Once painted, cellular PVC windows require minimal maintenance and can be re-painted if you change your color scheme.
Glass Space – One major factor to consider is loss of glass space. When replacing wood windows with a vinyl replacement window, there will be a significant loss of glass space. A vinyl window has its own frame and inserts into the existing wood frame of the wood window after the window sashes are removed. So imagine removing the glass from your window, and installing a new enclosed window in a frame where this glass area was. This will result in a significant loss of glass space which will result in a loss of natural light.