Cost lever
Vinyl (PVC)
polyvinyl chloride
The most common replacement-window frame material — rigid PVC plastic. The NC value default, and itself split into tiers (recycled-content vs first-generation).
What it means for you
“Vinyl” isn't one thing. Recycled-content stock is the entry tier; first-generation (virgin) vinyl holds colour and weld strength better and is commonly what in-home brands quote. Ask which you're being sold.
Where you'll see it
Named on most quotes; the tier usually isn't — so ask.
Related terms
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