FAQ
Here are some quick answers to some common questions. Of course your Vinylmax window professional is a great resource for more in depth discussions.
Why are Vinylmax windows a great choice? I’d never heard of them before.
What are the most important things to look for in a quality replacement window?
What is the difference between a Vinylmax window and the windows I see at the home improvement mega store?
When is the best time of year to replace my windows?
Do I have to replace my old casements with more casements or can I change styles?
Our friends’ news windows feel drafty. I thought new windows would be better sealed?
Does the Balance system really matter in choosing a window?
I saw a Billboard for $179 windows installed from another company, but their estimate significantly more. Is this what I can expect from all window companies?
Does Vinylmax sell to homeowners and contractors?
Who is qualified to install Vinylmax windows?
Where can I get literature and pricing on Vinylmax windows?
How quickly can I get new Vinylmax windows?
Can I get custom sized windows?
My Contractor gave me the option of triple pane glass. Is triple pane overkill for my area?
Doesn’t the argon or krypton gas leak out in the first year?
What Home Preparations do I need to make before my contractor installs my new windows?
How do I become a dealer?
Where is the serial number on my window?
What if I need a warranty repair or parts?
Q: Why are Vinylmax windows a great choice? I’d never heard of them before.
A: There are more than 1200 window manufacturers in North America and most of them are not household names. Vinylmax was founded in 1982, is privately held by one family, and is run by the second generation of that family. Window and Door magazine has recognized Vinylmax as one of the Top 100 manufacturers for many years. The Doerger family maintains a strong commitment to innovative quality and customer satisfaction. That commitment is more important than any brand name. Vinylmax puts this commitment in writing through its strong Lifetime Limited Warranty
Q: What are the most important things to look for in a quality replacement window?
A: We know that there is a lot of information to pour through when choosing a window for your home. Here are some of the most important things to look for:
- Visible Light Transmittance (often referred to as VLT). This is the amount of daylight that will be allowed into your home with your new product.
- U-value(the inverse of R-value) is used to measure the efficiency of your new windows. Make sure to get an accurate figure based on the entire window unit and not on the center of glass or the frame alone.
- Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (also called SHGC) is the fraction of incident solar radiation admitted through a window, both directly transmitted and absorbed and subsequently released inward. SHGC is expressed as a number between 0 and 1. The lower a window’s solar heat gain coefficient, the less solar heat it transmits into your home. A lower SHGC relates to lower cooling costs for your home in summer.
- Aesthetic appeal. Since you will have to look at your new windows for a long time to come, it is important that they compliment your décor and you find them visually appealing inside and out.
Q: What is the difference between a Vinylmax window and the windows I see at the home improvement mega store?
A: Every window Vinylmax makes is custom made to fit each opening. A reputable contractor can help advise you on what product best fits your specific home and need. Many of the mass produced mega-store windows are inexpensively built with lower grade raw materials, parts and hardware and are designed for multiple uses. Our windows are specifically designed and engineered for longevity and efficiency in single family homes
Q: When is the best time of year to replace my windows?
A: Windows can be effectively replaced any time of year. Most installations only require the opening to be empty for a very short time before your new window is put in place. Since your old windows are probably leaking and inefficient anyway, the sooner you replace the sooner you can reap the benefits.
Q: Do I have to replace my old casements with more casements or can I change styles?
A: Replacing your windows can maintain the traditional feel of your home or give your home and extreme makeover. The choice is yours. Vinylmax offers a broad selection of window styles, colors, and grid options that complement every architectural style
Q: Our friends’ news windows feel drafty. I thought new windows would be better sealed?
A: Even the most air tight window will feel drafty if it isn’t installed properly. There are specific installation methods recommended to ensure proper insulation. A qualified remodeling contractor will be familiar with these practices. On the other hand, no operating window will be completely air tight. Vinylmax windows utilize modern technology and materials like synthetic wool pile / mylar fin weatherstripping and foam filled compression seals to effectively protect against air infiltration
Q: Does the Balance system really matter in choosing a window?
A: Yes. Window balance technology has advanced greatly in recent years. Our self-lubricating G3 constant force balance system utilizes coated stainless steel coils that will never corrode or need maintenance and adjustment . Many older balance systems require strings, pulleys, springs that tend to fail under stress or require annual maintenance to operate properly. The balances in all of our windows are engineered for smooth and quiet operation that is guaranteed to last a lifetime.
Q: I saw a Billboard for $179 windows installed from another company, but their estimate significantly more. Is this what I can expect from all window companies?
A: Some companies use low prices on low-end products to lure you in. If it sounds too good to be true, it usually is. Once in your home they add on for screens, trash removal, insulation, LowE glass and other items that are standard when purchased through a reputable remodeling contractor. Most upscale contractors will never employ these marketing tactics. We work very hard to make sure that all of our Vinlymax products are distributed through reputable channels.
Q: Does Vinylmax sell to homeowners and contractors?
A: No. Vinylmax sells windows to wholesale building material distributors around the country who specialize in providing building products to professional dealers, contractors and installers.
Q: Who is qualified to install Vinylmax windows?
A: Qualified installers come from many areas of the home improvement industry. It is just as important to select a talented installer as it is to select a quality window, like Vinylmax. If your home is older than 1978, it may be necessary to utilize a contractor certified in lead safe practices. In any case, doing a little homework and asking your friends and neighbors for a good reference may make all the difference.
Q: Where can I get literature and pricing on Vinylmax windows?
A: This website provides a wealth of product information. Your home improvement specialist can provide product literature and customized pricing to you.
Q: How quickly can I get new Vinylmax windows?
A: It depends on several factors. Most Vinylmax windows are made very quickly and shipped to our nationwide network of distributors. Some features and options require longer lead times, but chances are your new Vinylmax windows will be installed and working for you before your next energy bill arrives.
Q: Can I get custom sized windows?
A: Every Vinylmax window is custom manufactured for an specific opening in a wall. All our windows are custom sized for the most accurate, efficient fit.
Q: My Contractor gave me the option of triple pane glass. Is triple pane overkill for my area?
A: Reasonably priced triple pane is certainly not overkill no matter where you live. A good triple pane window can offer an overall R-value in excess of 5, block up to 95% of all UV rays, and reduce outside noise by as much as 50% over standard double pane windows. The D.O.E. advises that a triple pane R-5 window is 40% more efficient in the home than standard double pane windows with LowE and Argon. Modern technology has made triple pane much more cost effective giving you a quicker return on your investment.
Q: Doesn’t the argon or krypton gas leak out in the first year?
A: There are many different types of spacer systems between the glass panes and each type has different performance properties when it comes to gas retention. Vinylmax windows utilize Intercept Spacer System, which provides the ultimate in gas retention. Loss of less than .1% per year. This means that after 10 years, less than 1% of the gas will have escaped. Results from prestigious Rosenheim test. (The Window Technology Institute (RAL) of Rosenheim, Germany)
Q: What Home Preparations do I need to make before my contractor installs my new windows?
A: It is wise to take down blinds and curtains, move furniture away from your openings, and remove delicate decorative items that may get knocked over or fall. Put your pets in a safe place and ask your contractor if there are any other special considerations that you will need to take. Good preparation on your part will keep your contractors working smoothly.
Q: How do I become a dealer?
A: Vinylmax sells windows to wholesale building material distributors around the country who specialize in providing building products to professional dealers, contractors and installers. Inquiries may be made for new distribution opportunities.
Q: Where is the serial number on my window?
A: The serial number may be formatted as 99-15423-01 or K15274-01. Each window has an individual serial number that correlates to the sizing, options and components of that specific window. Pulling down the top sash of a double hung window should reveal a label that is inside the top frame. Other styles of windows may have the number on a label affixed to the sash.
Q: What if I need a warranty repair or parts?
A: Vinylmax request for service form is available here and may be submitted by email, fax or mail.
