Pam Barrett

Vinyl Windows and Doors Rise to the Occasion Premium vinyl-framed windows are the perfect fit for high-rise buildings and condominiums

PAM BARRETT

When we started manufacturing vinyl windows in Hawaii in 1990, we were not all that surprised that there was a need to educate people about the benefits of these “new” vinyl-framed windows and doors that we were bringing to the industry. Even though they had already been a proven building material throughout Europe and the Mainland for decades, we knew that vinyl-framed windows were still an underutilized building material in Hawaii.

What does surprise us today, however, is that after 30 years of education, manufacturing and installing windows, we still run into building industry professionals who believe the outdated myth that vinyl windows and doors cannot be installed in high-rise buildings. While that may be true of lower-end, mass-produced products, there are many grades of vinyl windows available. Premium vinyl windows and doors that are custom manufactured to your exact specifications are not only acceptable, they are a significantly better building material.

Why Vinyl?

Windows and doors are one of the most complex—and most expensive— components of the building envelope. They are also one of the largest contributing factors when it comes to energy loss and, all too often, costly spall repair. Therefore, the quality of the products you choose, along with the materials that they are made of, determines how effectively the building is insulated against air, water, heat, light and noise transfer. The significant benefit of using vinyl windows in high-rise and commercial building applications

Before

After

is their unique blend of energy efficiency, insulating properties, durability, design flexibility, ease of maintenance and superior value. Changes in the International Building Codes (IBC) have resulted in an increasing demand for higher performance standards.

Mass Produced vs. Custom Manufactured

As with most building materials, when choosing vinyl windows that will last, quality matters. Mass-production stock windows are created in large quantities of common window sizes, in

a short amount of time. It is important to keep in mind that stock windows will not necessarily fit into stock-sized openings due to fluctuations in the way walls are built and shifting that can occur as a building ages. In addition, many mass-produced vinyl windows are often made with lower-grade materials, adversely affecting their performance and longevity. This lower-grade vinyl can warp, bend or otherwise fail to perform in just a few years. As a result, they are usually only rated for low-rise residential use.

Customized design and manufac

turing allows for slow and steady production of products tailored to the specific space and needs of the building in which they will be installed. Custom vinyl windows are made-to-order to fit your window openings perfectly, providing greater energy efficiency and superior air and water seal. Because they are made one at a time, custom manufacturers have much greater control over quality. These premium vinyl windows and doors are capable of achieving a much higher, commercial rating.

It also is important to be aware that installation costs may be higher with mass-produced windows than with custom, since modifications are likely needed in order for the window to accommodate the opening properly.

Vinyl vs. Aluminum Windows

As stated previously, it is a myth that aluminum windows are required for high-rise buildings and condos in Hawaii. A premium vinyl window can provide the proven energy efficiency of vinyl with the structural integrity previously only associated with aluminum.

Energy Efficiency

Premium vinyl windows on the market today are more energy-efficient and provide the cost savings you expect when investing in new windows. Vinyl is a natural thermal insulator, and does not transfer heat easily, like metal. Vinyl windows help regulate the internal temperature of the home, which allows the HVAC system to work less.

Aluminum windows are not as energy-efficient. Aluminum is actually a heat conductor. It allows more heat to penetrate through the windows, which will heat a room and cause the HVAC system to work harder. In addition, if the interior of the home is substantially cooler than the outside, condensation can form on the windows and lead to other issues such as mold and rust.

In closing, the benefits of vinyl windows are no longer limited to low-rise residential projects. ❖

Pam Barrett is the marketing director for Coastal Windows, a locally owned, second-generation family business manufacturing premium windows and doors in Hawaii since 1990. Coastal Windows is an insured and BC-licensed specialty contractor and installer. For more information: coastalwindows.com or 676-0529.

CoastalGard TM BYCOASTALWINDOWS Precision-engineered specifically for Hawaii to protect against the high winds and flying debris of a hurricane, CoastalGard TM windows and doors provide year-round protection for your property.

• Impact-rated storm protection • Increased security • Solar heat control • Maximum UV protection • Significant noise reduction Highrise buildings, townhomes, condos, new construction and retro-fit, Coastal Windows has you cove red.

676.0529

94.533 Puahi Street Waipio Business Park

Free On-Site Consultations

Licensed Installation BC-18663 www.coastalwindows.com