From the start, I should be clear that I am not saying you should use vinyl windows. Nor am I saying you should not. It depends on your needs, wants and the application. These top 5 reasons are only an observation of what is in our market.
And then I am also not saying that vinyl makes up all of it. We, as well as others that will go unnamed, sell a good bit of clad windows and still a small amount of wood (meaning the window is made out of wood but not clad as pictured below). Each have their own merits, some of which I’ll mention below.
All-Temp‘s Vinyl Picture Window
Andersen Doublehung Window
20 years ago, maybe even 10, most of the windows that were sold around here were wood. Why did that change? Was there something wrong with wood? Is vinyl always better? So without further ado, here are the top 5 reasons (in no particular order) why more than not of the new windows sold in this market are vinyl windows.
1. Vinyl windows are readily available in custom sizes. Often wood window units have longer lead times on customs. I cant say this in all cases but for the most part this is true. This is a huge factor, especially in replacement windows where expediency is important.
2. Vinyl windows have made big improvements in appearances. It wasn’t always this way. Vinyl windows used to look like… well, vinyl windows. Now, the appearance is more like that of a traditional wood window. A little beefier frame and the look of real brick mould surrounding it. So if you like the look of wood, why not stick with it. See reason #3.
3. They don’t rot and there’s very little maintenance. I say little because I don’t like telling people any thing is no maintenance. Sure, you never have to paint but anything gets dirt on it if it’s outside long enough. Wood rots, you have to paint it. In this case, vinyl wins.
4. Vinyl windows are easy to install. Again, I would rather shy away from generalizations but in general, this is true. Partly because a lot of the ones sold are ‘single hung’, that’s a window where the top sash is fixed and the bottom sash slides up and down. For a proper installation, the window has to be square (measure the windows in your home corner to corner and see how many give you the same measurements both directions).
This pic from ‘this old house‘ shows an installer ensuring his window is square.
5. OK fine. I suppose it doesn’t hurt but the price of vinyl windows is usually less than that of wood. That does not make it a better or worse window, it just is what it is. And often this is a driving factor.
See, there’s more to a window than first meets the eye. Some homeowners may think of it as nothing more than what you look through to see into the yard and check on the kids or pets. Or those things I cover up by hanging curtains around them to dress up my home’s interior.
The point is, take the time and choose the windows that are right for you. If these reasons resound with you, our vinyl may be the way to go. If you’re a little more quality conscious, let us show you some clad options. Either way, come see us, call us (256-852-7411) or visit our website by clicking here.
Wilson Lumber Company 
I’ve got Wilson Lumber windows that flip open but I don’t remember how? Do you have info or a video ? I have to push on the sides.
Unfortunately we do not have a video (but what a great idea, we should!) I am assuming you are referring to a wood window where you have to press in the balance (or track) to pull the window sash toward you. That is the correct way to do it. Its not terribly easy but you don’t want it to be too easy, otherwise the window would pop open. If that is not it feel free to drop in and we’ll be glad to show you on a display how to do it. Thanks for your question.