FAQ’s

ARE VINYL WINDOW FRAMES ENERGY EFFICIENT?

Yes, vinyl window frames are exceptionally energy efficient. Our vinyl window frames and sash corners are fusion-welded for maximum strength and protection against air and water infiltration. Tests using the common measure of insulating ability, the U-factor, have shown that vinyl windows regularly outperform competitive products thanks to the excellent thermal performance of the frame. Warm air stays inside during the winter and cool air stays inside during the summer. Home owners and building owners alike conserve energy and save money because the furnace and air conditioner don’t have to work as hard to maintain the interior temperature.

ARE VINYL WINDOWS EASY TO MAINTAIN?

Vinyl windows are impervious to rot, rust, corrosion, blistering, flaking and infestation by termites or other insects. Vinyl resists attacks by fungus and mildew, and scratching a vinyl window will not require any touch-up. Even better, a heavy rain fall or simply washing with water and a mild soap is all it takes to keep vinyl windows clean.

WHAT IS THE ENVIRONMENTAL IMPACT OF VINYL WINDOWS?

Vinyl windows have a minimal environmental impact. Vinyl can be reprocessed and recycled repeatedly. Scrap is routinely recycled directly back into vinyl products, making it a resource-efficient operation. In fact, 99% of the vinyl used by processors goes into a finished product. A comprehensive study of vinyl recycling completed in 1999 found that more than 1 billion pounds of material were recovered in 1997 and recycled into useful products. Twenty million pounds of that were recycled at the post-consumer level. Successful vinyl scrap buy-back programs initiated by window manufacturers have led to the diversion of more than 8 million pounds of window profile waste from landfills annually. Manufacturers also have produced window frames containing up to 245% recycled content.

Another study completed by life cycle assessment experts Greg Norris and Peter Yost shows the use phase is the most important in terms of a material’s life cycle impact, and counterbalances over time the environmental impact stemming from a product’s manufacture. Through the material’s combination of energy efficiency, thermal-insulating value, low contribution of greenhouse gases, easy maintenance and superior durability of products made from it, vinyl provides excellent life cycle benefits.

ARE VINYL WINDOWS DURABLE?

Vinyl windows are so durable that the vast majority of them installed over the past 25 years are still in use and therefore not candidates for end-of-life or post-consumer recycling. When that time comes, however, vinyl windows, like all vinyl, can be recycled. As with any building product, the key to post-consumer vinyl window recycling is to find cost-effective ways to collect, separate, process and transport used materials to a manufacturer for use in new products.

HOW DO VINYL WINDOWS PERFORM UNDER FIRE TESTING?

Vinyl window products, which are based on a naturally fire-retardant polymer, have excellent fire performance qualities. Vinyl is self-extinguishing when a flame source is removed. In addition, vinyl windows are able to meet building codes for ignitability, flammability, heat release, burning rate, flame spread and smoke density, according to John A. Sharry, former Fire Chief and past chairman of the National Fire Protection Association committee in fire fighter occupational safety and health. Certain vinyl formulations are also able to meet the stringent national electrical code of The National Fire Protection Association for insulating electrical and data cables.

WHAT IS THE WARRANTY ON DOMINION DOORS & WINDOWS?

Lifetime warranty on white window and patio door frames and sashes
15-year warranty on interior and exterior coloured windows
15-year warranty on super spacer sealed units
15-year warranty on window hardware

WHAT MAKES VINYL WINDOWS THE RIGHT CHOICE?

Here are our top 5 reasons vinyl windows are the right choice:

1. Energy efficient Vinyl windows reduce heating and cooling costs.
2. Low maintenance Simply give them a quick wipe down with a damp cloth and they’re just like new.
3. No painting or sealing Unlike other window materials, vinyl windows don’t need to be painted or sealed.
4. Less expensive Vinyl windows are relatively inexpensive to manufacture, which means an easier load on your wallet.
5. Weather-resistant Whether they face rain, sleet or snow, vinyl windows won’t crack, chip, or get damaged due to inclement weather. Over time, vinyl windows remain extremely durable and structurally sound.