The world of replacement windows is changing.
For many years, if a homeowner wanted vinyl windows, they had two choices: white and tan (or some variation of a tan color).
Today, many vinyl window manufacturers are developing technology that allows them to apply a paint coat to vinyl.
This creates a whole new opportunity for homeowners to have a custom look to their new windows.
If your existing paint scheme allows for a white or tan window, a standard replacement window isn't such a big change.
However, many times the exterior trim of the house is dark and the new window jumps out like sore thumb on an otherwise nice looking home.
With vinyl windows that offer a custom exterior color, the house can now have a new vinyl replacement window with various exterior colors and a white interior.
The custom color keeps the color scheme consistent on the outside and give the customer a new white window frame on the interior.
If you are considering vinyl windows with a custom exterior color, it is important to understand the warranty for the finish on the windows.
There are quite a few companies offering a custom exterior vinyl window finish, but many only warranty the window or the window finish for 5 to 10 to 15 years.
There are very few that are extending a warranty on the finish much longer than that.
If you are choosing the custom exterior color, you should not settle for anything less than the lifetime warranty if it is available.
Vinyl windows with a paint finish are not able to be repainted with a standard household paint.
If you choose a replacement window with a short warranty and the paint starts to flake or chalk, you can not simply repaint the window.
However, if your window carries a lifetime warranty on the paint and you experience the same problems, the window company will take care of the issue using the proper paint and finish techniques.
You should expect to pay more for a vinyl window with a custom exterior finish.
This is because of the additional material and work required to apply the coat of paint.
The pricing for a custom color finish will fall between the price for a standard vinyl window and a fiberglass window.
However, the price is worth it if you are able to maintain the current look of your home or create a truly custom appearance that goes beyond the standard white or tan options available with most replacement windows.
It is an exciting time in the world of windows.
Before a homeowner had to sacrifice appearance for energy efficiency.
Now homeowners can create the look they want AND realize the benefits of truly energy efficient windows.