Vinyl Windows

Started by PatW2 • 6 replies • 1374 views

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PatW2 (Washington)
Posts: 9

Posted:

I live in a complex that's about 25 years old and has dark alluminum windows throughout. A problem has developed where a few homeowners are requesting permission to install white vinyl windows. Vinyl windows are more efficient, however the change will stand out.

Is it more important to allow homeowners to improve their unit by installing Vinyl Windows or preserve a uniformed exterior appearance throughout the complex.
It would seem odd if only three out of a hundred units have different windows.

Any advice as to what approach the board should take?

Thanks,
Board Member

AnnaD2 (Florida)
Posts: 960

Posted:

Hi Pat,

We went through this a few years ago. In the State of Florida, Associations could not refuse to let people install hurricane windows. Our documents stated that all window replacements had to be of the same type and color as the original ones. But hurricane windows ARE vinyl and look nothing like the original aluminium ones.

Slooooooooowly, people are having hurricane windows installed...and yes, they look like hell. They really stand out compared to the other windows in the buildings. But we have no choice and can't force everyone to replace theirs.

BrianB (California)
Posts: 2,820

Posted:

you may also look into any state laws on energy efficiency, green "use", etc.. some states are also mandating/protecting the rights of those who are installing energy saving devices, including (perhaps) windows that may not meet local ordinance requirements for aesthetics. check carefully before you pronounce sentence. The future is more legislation..

DonnaS (Tennessee)
Posts: 5,671

Posted:

Pat,
If it makes you fell any better, most of the windows will need replacing in the next couple of years anyhow so after a few more getting changed, you will hardly notice the new verses the old. Actually soon, everyone will be wanting the new fresh look. Maintenance is more important than how the windows look and you can get credit for installing energy efficient windows. That's a

KirkW1 (Texas)
Posts: 1,665

Posted:

My question is why do the windows have to be white? While I don't know what the market has, I do know there is no technical reason the vinyl has to be white. But I also know that the current fad is that windows are again white.

Personally, I would look to get some community feedback into the issue. Also, you might look to see if some other color is available for a similar price.

RobertR1 (South Carolina)
Posts: 5,164

Posted:

To all, Looks like this is a common problem and I agree with slooooowing changing out. Our 65 unit condo is doing that but due to different configuaration on windows unit to unit, it is damn near impossible to dictate what windows should be used and also the construction of the windows (material). Our controls are minimal but I think work. Each case is treated individually. This results in minimal differences but there are differences. So....I suspect (mostly because of varying ages of units) you are not going to get perfection and exact duplication, especially if you are dictating this expense in a condo is an owners expense). But, there should be unbiased oversight to insure the primary responsibility to the appearance of the whole is primary.

PatW2 (Washington)
Posts: 9

Posted:

Kirk,

From my research; dark colored or painted vinyl windows tend to heat up and cause problems with the windows. This is why most manufactures of vinyl windows tend go with just white or light colors as these tend to reflect heat.

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