Why do Vinyl Windows Warp? Signs and Reasons for Vinyl Warping

Last Updated on September 21, 2023

Vinyl windows are a popular choice for homeowners because they are affordable and durable. But what happens if they start to warp? What causes vinyl windows to warp, and how can you tell if it’s happening to your windows?

Vinyl windows can warp due to factors like temperature changes, sunlight exposure, and improper installation. Warping affects the window’s structure, causing drafts and energy loss. To prevent warping, ensure proper installation, maintain consistent indoor temperatures, and opt for light-colored vinyl.

If you see any gaps or cracks around the edges of your window, or if the window doesn’t seem to be sitting level in the frame, your window may already have started warping. In extreme cases, the window may actually be bowed or cupped.

Warped windows can affect the structure of your home and let in drafts, so it’s important to have them fixed as soon as possible. However, it is important to be aware of the potential risks of warped vinyl windows, as this can cause a number of problems, including water leakage and decreased insulation.

Warping can cause serious problems if not addressed, so it’s best to nip it in the bud as soon as possible. In this article, we will discuss the signs that your vinyl windows may be warping, as well as what you can do if you notice any of these signs.

How Do Vinyl Windows Warp?

Warping is a phenomenon caused by the expansion and contraction of materials due to temperature changes. When vinyl windows are exposed to extreme heat or cold, they can expand or contract, causing them to warp.

This can cause problems with the window’s seal, as well as its ability to open and close properly. Warping can also impact the structure of your home, as well as the window’s ability to insulate your home.

Warping is a serious problem that should be addressed as soon as possible, as it can lead to a number of other problems if left unchecked.

The Causes of Vinyl Warping

Warping is a distortion that can occur in any window material, including vinyl, affecting their appearance and performance. And there are a number of different factors that can cause vinyl windows to warp.

Material and Structure

Vinyl windows are particularly susceptible to warping because of the way they’re made. They are made of polyvinyl chloride or PVC, which is a synthetic plastic material and is heat-sensitive. 

Vinyl is a plastic that is formed into shapes by heating it and then cooling it. Over time, the heat-cool cycles that vinyl goes through during manufacturing can cause it to warp.

Exposure to sunlight also can cause warping, as it is an extreme change in temperature. The material of the window, as well as its structure, can affect its ability to withstand changes in temperature and humidity.

For example, a window with a lot of glass is more likely to warp than a window with less glass. As a result, the glass is less likely to be affected by uneven expansion and contraction.

A window with a stronger frame is less prone to warping than one with a weaker frame. So, the frame can better support the glass and keep it from bowing or warping.

Improper Installation

One of the most common causes of warping is improper installation. If a window is not installed correctly, it can cause the window to warp over time.

This is particularly true if the window is not properly sealed or if it’s installed in an area that is prone to extreme temperature changes.

Perfect weather stripping around the window is critical to prevent any drafts or moisture from seeping in and potentially causing the window to warp.

Many people don’t realize that window expansion and contraction can cause big problems. Among the most common issues with windows is expansion and contraction due to temperature changes.

This can cause the window to become misaligned, making it difficult to open and close. In some cases, it can even lead to breakage. 

If the windows do not have room in their rough opening to expand or contract, the problems will worsen. Shims and setting screws should be placed at least 8 inches back from the window corners to allow for expansion and contraction without putting undue stress on the window.

Settling

Another common cause of warping is settling. As your house settles, the window can become crooked and start to warp.

This is most common in older homes, but it can happen in new construction as well. If you notice that your vinyl windows are warping, you should contact a qualified contractor who can assess the situation and make any necessary repairs. 

Changes in Humidity

Changes in humidity can also cause windows to warp.

When there is a sudden change in humidity, the window can absorb or release moisture, causing it to expand or contract. As a result, the window may start to warp.

In areas with a lot of sunlight or extreme temperature changes, your vinyl windows are more likely to warp. The vinyl will expand in the summertime when it gets hot outside.

In the winter time, with low temperatures, vinyl warps, creating gaps between slats that let cold air seep through.

The Vinyl Solar Collector Effect and Color

A common cause of solar collector warping is the color of the vinyl. Vinyl windows come in a variety of colors. But, some colors are more susceptible to warping than others.

For example, dark-colored windows tend to warp more than light-colored windows. This is because dark colors absorb more heat than light colors. As a result, the vinyl expands more in the heat, causing it to warp.

And, because white or beige vinyl absorbs less solar energy, it expands less than dark-colored PVC, making it more energy efficient. Some manufacturers use white vinyl for window cores and cover it with pigmented vinyl that can move around in response to thermal changes without causing any damage.

How to Detect Warping?

One of the first things you may notice is that your window isn’t opening or closing correctly. If the window is warped, it may be difficult to open or close, and the seal may not be as tight as it should be.

Another obvious sign is a change in the shape of the window. including bowing, crooking, kinking, cupping, and twisting.

• If the window starts to bow or bulge along the window’s face, it’s an indicator that the window is warped.
• Crooking occurs when the window frame is no longer level, and you may notice that the window sill is tilted.
• Kinking happens when there’s a sharp bend in the window, and cupping occurs when the edges of the window start to turn up.
• Twisting happens when the window no longer sits level, resulting in a tilted window sill.

If you see these signs, it would be a good idea to have a contractor come and take a look. In addition to visual cues, there are other ways to spot warped windows.

• One way is to check the sealant around the window. If the sealant is cracked or peeling, it’s a sign that the window is no longer level and it’s not sealing properly.
• You also may notice that your window is leaking air or water. This can signify that the window is not sealed properly and that the warping has caused gaps in the seal.
• There is also a possibility that the sash may sag downward, making it impossible for the windows to be locked.

Inspection

To confirm that there is warping in your window, you must inspect it closely. Inspect it from all angles, paying close attention to any areas that seem to be bulging or out of alignment.

First, you should look at the frame of the window. If the frame is warped, you will see that it is not level.

The window may also be bowed or leaning to one side. You also should check the seal around the window. When a window is warped, there will likely be gaps in the seal.

You also may see cracks in the glass or in the vinyl itself. If you can see the light coming through cracks that weren’t there before, this is another indicator that the window isn’t in good shape. Then, it’s likely damaged and needs to be replaced.

Once you’ve confirmed that the window is warped, you can take steps to fix the problem and restore your view.

What To Do If Your Vinyl Windows Warp?

If your window is warped, you have a few options. The first is to try and fix the problem yourself. There are a few ways to do this, but it’s important to note that not all of them will work for every window.

Fixing Warped Windows

One way to fix a warped window is to remove the sash and reset it.

1. First, remove the screws that hold the sash in place and then lift it out of the frame.
2. Once the sash is removed, you can try to reset it by gently bending it back into shape.
3. If the window is still warped, you can try to heat the frame with a hair dryer or a heat gun.
4. This can help to loosen the vinyl and allow you to reset the window.

Another option is to use window shrink film. This film is applied to the outside of the window and then heated using an electric hair dryer or heat gun. As the film shrinks, it pulls the window back into shape.

It’s possible to replace the whole sash trim piece, but that’s a bit of trouble. A more practical solution is to remove the buckled plastic and insert a high-quality sealant under the vinyl cutout. This will protect against water intrusion and rot. Then, sealant-glue a rectangular patch over the damage. 

Tightening the hinges of warped windows can sometimes help to fix the problem. This will only work if the warp is not too severe, and it may only be a temporary fix.

You can also try shimming the window. This involves placing pieces of wood or plastic between the window and the frame to level it out.

Installing extra weather stripping can also help to seal the window and prevent drafts.

Replacement of Warped Windows

In some cases, the only fix is to replace it. This is usually the best option if the warp is severe or if the window leaks.

You may need to replace the glass in the window. If your windows are severely warped, you may have to replace the entire window with new, energy-efficient ones.

If you’re not comfortable doing this yourself, you can always hire a professional to do it for you. There are also many types of specialty windows that can help improve your home’s energy efficiency.

If you live in an area with extreme temperature changes, you should look for windows that have a high thermal resistance (R-value). This is a measure of how well the window resists heat flow. The higher the R-value, the better the window will resist heat flow.

Whichever type of window you select, have it professionally installed to ensure that it will provide the maximum benefit. It is true that not all vinyl replacement windows are created equal. Material made by a reliable manufacturer will last longer, provide more insulation, and hold up better.

The most important thing is to take action as soon as you realize your window is warped.

If you wait too long, the problem will only get worse, and the window will become increasingly difficult to fix.

When in doubt, it’s always best to hire a professional to take care of the problem for you. No matter what solution you choose, make sure to take care of your windows, so they don’t warp again in the future. 

How to Prevent Vinyl Windows from Warping?

There are a few things you can do to prevent your vinyl windows from warping.

• Keep consistent temperatures: Try to keep the temperature inside your home consistent to prevent the vinyl from expanding and contracting too much.
• Install your windows properly: It’s also important to make sure that your windows are properly installed. This means that they should be level and plumb, and the frame should be securely fastened to the wall.
• Don’t overload your windows: You should also avoid placing furniture or other heavy objects above your windows, as this can stress the frame and cause warping.
• Regular maintenance: Be sure to regularly clean your windows to remove any dirt or debris that could be trapping heat and causing the vinyl to warp. 
• Replacements: If your windows are still under warranty, you may be able to get them replaced if they warp. Check with the manufacturer or your local window dealer to see if this is an option.
• Shrink film: You can also try using window shrink film or weather stripping to prevent drafts and moisture from getting in.
• Color matters: Dark colors will retain more heat than light colors, warping the vinyl. The best way to prevent this is to choose light-colored vinyl for your windows.
• Reflective film: Reflective films are also recommended if you live in a sunny area. This will help keep the heat from getting absorbed by the vinyl and causing it to warp.

You can also try to find windows with low solar heat gain coefficients (SHGC). This measures how much heat is allowed to pass through the window. The lower the SHGC, the less heat will be able to enter and cause the vinyl to warp.

If you must have your windows in direct sunlight, install blinds or shades on your windows to help keep the heat out. If you have windows that have a tendency to warp, you can try installing awnings over them. Awnings will provide shade and block out some of the heat from the sun, preventing it from warping.

Don’t Settle for Cheap; Invest in Quality

Warping is a common problem in substandard windows. When your windows become deformed, they no longer properly fit within the frame.

As a result, they may become difficult to operate on a daily basis. Not only does it make your home look less attractive, but it can also let in drafty air and reduce your energy efficiency. 

If your windows are starting to warp, don’t hesitate to reach out to a professional for help. Follow the tips in this article, so you can avoid your window’s warping.

By doing your research and selecting a window that is built to last, you can avoid the hassle and expense of having to replace your windows prematurely.