Can Vinyl Replacement Windows Outgas Into the Environment in Hot Climates?

Outgassing

• Vinyl window frames are made of polyvinyl chloride, called PVC, which consists of petroleum and various synthetic chemicals. The odor that you sometimes smell coming from PVC is the result of outgassing. PVC emits Volatile Organic Compounds, which are chemicals that begin evaporating at room temperature. Vinyl isn't the only material that outgasses. Paints, glues, particleboard, plywood, carpeting and other materials also outgas.

Temperature Effects

• Outgassing odors are strongest when vinyl replacement windows are new. Hot temperatures speed the release of VOCs into the environment. Outgassing decreases as a vinyl window ages, according to the Healthy House Institute. PVC odors usually disappear altogether in time. Unlike vinyl window frames, wood frames need periodic painting, which releases VOCs into the environment, as newly painted frames outgas. However, some manufacturers make low-VOC paints that minimize the release of chemicals and odors during outgassing.

Climate vs. Fire

• Vinyl presents more potential safety hazards when it burns rather than when it’s exposed to hot climates. Homes with vinyl replacement windows and siding can release toxic chemicals if they catch fire. For example, phosgene is a common ingredient in vinyl and other plastics. The Healthy House Institute indicates that phosgene becomes a poisonous gas when it burns, and it interferes with the nervous systems function of people who inhale the gas.

Preventing Outgassing

• Avoid outgassing replacement windows by installing aluminum frames instead of vinyl ones. The Healthy House Institute notes that aluminum is benign in terms of outgassing, but the popularity of vinyl frames may make it harder to find aluminum replacement windows. Aluminum frames sweat in winter due to the transfer of heat through windows. That can spur mold growth. Prevent such moisture accumulation by choosing aluminum frames with thermal breaks, because they have an inner and outer frame attached to another material preventing heat transfer.