Vinyl windows have become increasingly popular in recent years, and it’s not hard to see why. They offer excellent energy efficiency, easy maintenance, and durability, all at an affordable price. In the world of vinyl windows, JELD-WEN is a well-known and respected brand, offering a wide range of options for homeowners.
Today, we’ll take a closer look at two of their top product lines – the JELD-WEN V2500 and V4500 – comparing their features, pros and cons, and answering some frequently asked questions about vinyl windows.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | JELD-WEN V2500 | JELD-WEN V4500 |
| Price | Budget-friendly | Premium |
| Styles Available | Single-hung, double-hung, sliding, fixed | Single-hung, double-hung, sliding, casement, awning, fixed |
| Performance Ratings | Lower | Higher |
| Customization Options | Limited (colors, hardware styles) | Greater (colors, hardware styles, grid patterns) |
| Energy Efficiency | Good (Low-E glass, weatherstripping) | Superior (dual-pane insulated glass, argon gas fills, warm-edge spacer technology) |
| Durability | Standard vinyl construction | Enhanced (thicker vinyl profiles, fusion-welded corners) |
| Maintenance | Low-maintenance | Low-maintenance |
| Lead Times | Shorter | Potentially longer (due to customization options) |
This table provides a quick comparison of the key features and differences between the JELD-WEN V2500 and V4500 series. Keep in mind that individual preferences, budgets, and project requirements will influence which series is the best fit for your needs.
The JELD-WEN V2500: A Budget-Friendly Option with Solid Performance
The V2500 series is JELD-WEN’s entry-level offering, aimed at providing a budget-friendly option for homeowners without sacrificing quality. This series is available in various styles, including single-hung, double-hung, sliding, and fixed windows, making it a versatile option for any home.
Pros of the JELD-WEN V2500
- Affordability
The V2500 series is a cost-effective option for homeowners looking to replace their windows without breaking the bank. This makes it a popular choice for new constructions or large-scale renovations.
- Variety of Styles
With multiple styles to choose from, the V2500 series can accommodate different architectural designs and personal preferences.
- Energy Efficiency
The V2500 windows come with Low-E glass, which helps reduce heat transfer and lower energy costs. They also feature weatherstripping and airtight construction for added insulation.
- Easy Maintenance
Like all vinyl windows, the V2500 series is low-maintenance, requiring only occasional cleaning and no painting or staining.
Cons of the JELD-WEN V2500
- Limited Customization
Compared to the V4500 series, the V2500 windows offer fewer options for customization, such as color choices and hardware styles.
- Lower Performance Ratings
While the V2500 windows are energy-efficient, they generally have lower performance ratings than the V4500 series, meaning they may not be as effective at keeping your home comfortable.
The JELD-WEN V4500: A Premium Choice for Enhanced Performance and Customization
The V4500 series is JELD-WEN’s premium line of vinyl windows, offering enhanced performance, greater customization options, and a wider range of styles. This series is available in single-hung, double-hung, sliding, casement, awning, and fixed windows, making it suitable for any design.
Pros of the JELD-WEN V4500
- Superior Performance
The V4500 windows boast higher performance ratings than the V2500 series, thanks to features such as dual-pane insulated glass, argon gas fills, and warm-edge spacer technology. This translates to better energy efficiency and comfort for your home.
- Greater Customization
With a wider range of colors, hardware styles, and grid patterns, the V4500 series allows for more customization to suit your home’s aesthetics.
- Wider Range of Styles
The V4500 series offers additional styles, such as casement and awning windows, which are not available in the V2500 series.
- Enhanced Durability
The V4500 windows feature thicker vinyl profiles and fusion-welded corners, which contribute to improved strength and longevity.
Cons of the JELD-WEN V4500
- Higher Cost
The premium features of the V4500 series come with a higher price tag, which may not be suitable for all budgets or projects.
- Potentially Longer Lead Times
Due to the increased customization options, V4500 windows may have longer lead times compared to the V2500 series, which could impact project timelines.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Yes, there are different grades of vinyl windows, which can affect their performance, durability, and price. Entry-level vinyl windows typically offer basic features and fewer customization options, while premium-grade windows provide enhanced performance, durability, and a wider range of design choices.
The main differences between vinyl windows are related to their performance, construction, and customization options. Higher-quality windows will generally have better energy efficiency, enhanced durability, and a wider range of styles and finishes to choose from.
JELD-WEN windows are made in several manufacturing facilities across North America, including the United States and Canada. This allows the company to offer regionally specific products and provide local support to their customers.
Yes, black vinyl windows are available from many manufacturers, including JELD-WEN. The V4500 series, in particular, offers a selection of color options, including black, to suit your design preferences.
The best vinyl for windows is typically a high-quality, unplasticized polyvinyl chloride (uPVC). This material offers excellent durability, weather resistance, and thermal performance, making it ideal for window frames.
The best type of vinyl for windows is uPVC, as it offers superior performance and durability compared to other types of vinyl. uPVC is also low-maintenance, energy-efficient, and recyclable, making it an environmentally friendly choice for windows.
Making the Choice: JELD-WEN V2500 vs V4500
Ultimately, the decision between the JELD-WEN V2500 and V4500 series will depend on your specific needs, budget, and preferences. If you’re looking for a more affordable option with decent performance and a variety of styles, the V2500 series could be a great choice.
On the other hand, if you’re willing to invest in higher-performing windows with greater customization possibilities, the V4500 series is worth considering.
