Fiberglass maintains its integrity even in hot temperatures. The glass fibers added to a fiberglass window frame mean that the material does not expand and contract and does not conduct heat or cold.
The same fiberglass that is used in attics as insulation is already in the frame, which means that the frame is more energy efficient. The same glass fibers that make fiberglass window frames better energy insulators also make them better noise insulators.
Fiberglass is one of the best noise insulators available. Vinyl does not have the same insulating properties, which means that noises from the outdoors may travel through the frame more easily. Both types of windows are considered low maintenance. However, both require some care over time. Fiberglass windows may fade or peel and need to be repainted. Vinyl windows may warp or contract, which can cause a poor air seal that needs to be filled with caulk periodically to prevent air from coming in.
However, both are durable materials. Vinyl has welded corners that prevent air or water leaks when properly fitted into the frame, while fiberglass does not warp or contract, so it sits tighter in the frame and does not leak. In the event of damage, vinyl windows may be marginally easier to repair because the flexibility of the frame means that they are easier to remove and install.
Fiberglass windows are better insulators than vinyl. For this reason, fiberglass windows are considered the greener choice. Fiberglass windows are still relatively new, so no exact figures have been reported. FIXR provides cost guides, comparisons, and term cheat sheets for hundreds of remodeling, installation and repair projects.
Log In. Loading, please wait Password Recovery. Get Local Cost. CONS Can warp in heat Expands and contracts with temperature fluctuations May cause poor air seal Little insulating value in the frame.
Find Pros. Fiberglass Windows PROS Thinner frames with more glass Better insulating frame for energy and noise control Does not expand, contract, or warp Better appearance Increases home value Lasts up to 50 years. Appearance The majority of any window is glass, but there are a few differences in the frames between vinyl and fiberglass. Energy efficiency The glass fibers added to a fiberglass window frame mean that the material does not expand and contract and does not conduct heat or cold.
Maintenance Both types of windows are considered low maintenance. Was this guide helpful to you? Yes No. Feedback Send. Thanks for your feedback! Remodeling Terms Cheat Sheet Definitions in laymen's terms, cost considerations, pictures and things you need to know.
See full cheat sheet. Vinyl has many applications in the construction industry and it is widely used in sidings, window frames, roofing and gutters, among others. The fibers may be mixed randomly throughout the plastic, or come in the form of a flat sheet, or be woven into a fabric.
How much does it cost to install vinyl or fiberglass windows in my city? Related comparison guides. Bay vs Bow Window. Casement vs Sash Window. Single-Hung vs Double-Hung Windows. Vinyl vs Aluminum Windows. Wood vs Vinyl Windows. Related cost guides. Window Replacement. Bay Window Installation. Composite or fiberglass materials are the newest option in the replacement window market. However these windows typically carry a high price tag, similar to wood windows.
They come with the same options that most vinyl windows come with like interior wood grain and custom exterior colors and boast similar energy efficiency ratings as most vinyl windows. Composite and fiberglass windows can be painted to suit your tastes unlike vinyl and are just as maintenance free. Here at The Men With Tools Home Remodeling, we carry a Paragon composite window, which is one of the best composite windows on the market, and just like our vinyl windows, it carries an easy-to-understand lifetime warranty.
Are you a victim of old aluminum windows? We feel for you. Their cheap quality is prone to drafts, rust and corroding and makes you think all aluminum windows are like this.
The drawback is they come with a steeper price tag compared to vinyl, but they are less expensive than wood. Like vinyl, aluminum windows are also low-maintenance, which gives them a good selling point. However, if energy-efficiency is high on your priority-list, look elsewhere as aluminum naturally conducts a lot of heat and is bone chilling during the winter making it a poor choice for our customers that live in the northeast.
To lessen the risk, you can buy corrosion-resistant paint. When it comes to deciding which replacement window is best for you make a checklist of what matters and write a pro and con list.
Also, do your homework on the window contractor. Chances are they are ripping you off and also giving you a mediocre installation experience. Aluminum vs. Wood vs. Vinyl vs. Aluminum Windows Aluminum windows are lightweight options that have become more popular with modern advances. Pros Homeowners in certain climates consider aluminum windows because of their style and benefits.
That makes it suitable for modern homes, and it creates a more durable window design. It helps create a better seal and contributes to both its strength and low-maintenance design. High price: With the pros of aluminum windows comes the con of a high cost. Corrosion-resistant paint will help, but other materials may be the better choice if you live anywhere coastal or in a wet climate.
Some manufacturers create efficient aluminum windows with insulation foam inside. Fiberglass Windows Fiberglass is a relatively new material in the window world. Pros Modern materials have advantages over traditional ones in durability. A better seal: Fiberglass windows are more resistant to warping than other materials.
Durability: Fiberglass has a reputation as a durable material, making it an excellent choice for windows. With the durability of fiberglass windows also comes a long lifespan under specific conditions and with proper care. Appearance: Some manufacturers make fiberglass windows that mimic the look of wood.
That combines qualities of both materials, though many homeowners prefer the genuine product. Cons While fiberglass may sound like an ideal choice, remember there are disadvantages to the material. Higher price: You can get similar pros to fiberglass windows with other materials, like vinyl. Less customization: Other materials allow for a variety of shapes, styles and colors. Sensitivity to sunlight: Ultraviolet rays from the sun pose a threat to fiberglass resin.
While manufacturers may apply a coating to protect your windows from the sun, it will need to be thick to prevent damage. Wood Windows Wood has been a window building material for centuries, and for good reasons. Pros Wood windows provide benefits across appearance and quality, making the material a popular choice. Style: When homeowners select wood windows, they do so primarily for the look. A beautiful and natural style is one of the most attractive benefits of wood windows.
Wood windows are also flexible in terms of appearance. You can paint or stain them to match your home, and manufacturers craft different styles and shapes. Longevity: With proper care, some wood windows can last for decades longer than other materials. Energy efficiency: Wood is an excellent insulator. That makes your home more energy-efficient in any season. Cons Of course, you do need to carefully consider any potential drawbacks that come with this product.
Rotting over time: On its own, wood is not a water-resistant material, which means it could rot over time.
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