Vinyl Replacement Windows:
Benefits At A Glance

  • Affordability (not cheap)
  • Non-Conductive
  • Long Lasting
  • Wide Selection of Style and Color Options

All Vinyl For Vinyl Replacement Windows Is The Same, Right?

No, that is not true. Some vinyl used in vinyl windows is made with recycled materials and some are made with virgin vinyl materials. A simple analogy is comparing vinyl replacement windows with bread. All bread uses a flour and water recipe but bread making differs in the type of flour and the time baked.

The difference with vinyl replacement windows is in the formula as well.

  • uPVC is un-plasticized Polyvinyl Chloride. Since PVC is too brittle, modifiers must be added to stabilize and strengthen the mix.
  • Titanium Dioxide (TiO2) is a critical additive as it adds protection from the sun. Some manufacturers use just enough titanium dioxide to help against yellowing and drying out. Premium Vinyl – used by Anlin Windows and Provia Vinyl Windows contain more TiO2 to create a more resistant vinyl for greater sun protection. No fading or becoming brittle over time.
  • Fillers? Yes, some manufacturers use fillers – such as chalk(!) to make their vinyl less expensive. You won’t find chalk in premium vinyl.
  • Modifiers/Additives are added to help make the vinyl more impact resistant but, there are good modifiers and less effective modifiers. Acrylic Impact Modifiers are used in premium vinyl products to add long term weather protection. Acrylic also helps protect against intense UV rays…like we get in Texas. Some vinyl products get CPE (Chlorinated Polyethylene) to assist with pliability. Other modifiers that are less popular for window framers are: Ethylene Vinyl Acetate and MBS (Methyl Methacrylate Butadiene Styrene).
vinyl replacement windows

Why Formula Matters

The formula, or recipe of the vinyl itself matters a lot. You want long-lasting, energy efficient vinyl replacement windows that are affordable, and come with a great warranty.

Anlin’s formula has been trademarked with the name XTRU. Here’s how XTRU compares:

Comparison: Anlin XTRU vs. Standard Vinyl

Because Anlin is a premium regional manufacturer, their “recipe” is significantly more robust than “builder-grade” options you might find at big-box stores.

FeatureAnlin XTRU VinylStandard “Builder Grade” Vinyl
Primary StabilizerHigh-Concentration Titanium DioxideLower-grade or recycled stabilizers
DurabilityHigh rigidity; resists “bowing”Prone to sagging or warping in heat
Color RetentionLifetime resistance to yellowingMay fade or “chalk” within 5-10 years
CertificationsAAMA Gold Label (Highest)Often Silver or basic NFRC only

Provia trademarks their vinyl with the name SunShield. Here’s a comparison of these two great brands. You can’t go wrong with either brand!

ProVia vs. Anlin: Formula Comparison

FeatureProVia (SunShield®)Anlin (XTRU)
Formula OriginDeceuninck SunShield® (Global Premium)Proprietary Anlin Formula (In-house)
UV ProtectionHigh TiO2​ concentrationHigh TiO2​ concentration
Primary RegionMidwest/East Coast (Extreme Temp Swings)West Coast (Extreme Heat/UV)
Structural FocusMulti-chambered with Innergy® ReinforcementsTitanium-infused with high rigidity

Does Installation Matter?

If you live in either the Dallas Metro or Houston Metro, The Window Experts can help. Our processes for installation are so tight that we offer a Lifetime Leak-Free installation. Our crews have decades of experience installing all types of windows in all types of homes. Call us for the best window products installed by the best installation processes.

If you don’t live within our area, head on over to Jeff’s List where we have vetted hundreds of installers across the country and can make a referral to a company we trust.

vinyl replacement windows
vinyl replacement windows