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Insulated Vinyl

Insulated Double Insulated vinyl frames are identical in most of their characteristics to standard vinyl frames. Vinyl window frames do not require painting and have good moisture resistance. Because the color goes all the way through, there is no finish coat that can be damaged or deteriorate over time -- the surface is therefore maintenance-free. Recent advances have improved dimensional stability and resistance to degradation from sunlight and temperature extremes.

The major difference between insulated vinyl and standard vinyl frames is improved thermal performance. In insulated vinyl frames, the hollow cavities of the frame are filled with insulation making them thermally superior to standard vinyl and wood frames. Usually these high performance frames are used with high performance glazings.

Whole Window Properties - Insulated Vinyl


Glazing	Single-glazed Clear	Single-glazed with Bronze/Gray Tint	Double-glazed Clear	Double-glazed with Bronze/Gray Tint	Double-glazed with High Performance Tint
U-Factor			.44	.44	.44
SHGC			.60	.49	.41
VT			.63	.48	.54

Glazing	Double-glazed with High-Solar-Gain Low-E, Argon/Krypton Gas	Double-glazed with Moderate-Solar-Gain Low-E, Argon/Krypton Gas	Double-glazed with Low-Solar-Gain Low-E, Argon/Krypton Gas	Triple-glazed with High-Solar-Gain Low-E, Argon/Krypton Gas	Triple-glazed with Low-Solar-Gain Low-E, Argon/Krypton Gas
U-Factor	.29	.27	.26	.18	.18
SHGC	.56	.46	.31	.40	.26
VT	.58	.60	.55	.50	.43
Note: The data presented here is an average of similar (but not identical) products from several manufacturers. Specific products will have performance properties slightly higher or lower. Users are encouraged to check with specific manufacturers for exact performance properties.