Vinyl vs. Fiberglass Windows: Which One Is Best?
When shopping for windows, you will be presented with a multitude of options that range in color and styles. But whether you’re comparing window types for replacement windows or new construction, two materials will probably be brought up a lot: fiberglass and vinyl.
Fiberglass and vinyl come with their own pros and cons. The final decision will ultimately be based on your budget and which of the advantages suits your needs the most. Let’s have a look at how these two window materials compare to one another.
Cost
Because of fiberglass’s long and elaborate manufacturing process, it is much more expensive than vinyl windows. The manufacturing process for vinyl windows is much less complicated, making them more affordable.
Maintenance
The durability of vinyl and fiber is the same. Neither will warp or rot like wood windows. However, fiberglass windows will demand more maintenance than vinyl because the will eventually chip and crack. You will need to repaint fiberglass windows every so often to retain their beauty. Vinyl windows, on the other hand, are baked during the manufacturing process; this is why they don’t fade over time. Fiberglass colors will fade due to direct exposure to the sun. With vinyl, you will find that you will only need to clean them occasionally.
Appearance
Homeowners love the look of wood but not the fact that wood rots and warps. Both fiberglass and vinyl now come in a variety of finishes that so closely resembles wood grain finishes that you wouldn’t know the difference unless you looked very closely. Both vinyl windows and fiberglass windows come in a wide range of colors and finishes, giving the homeowner a variety of choices to add curb appeal to their house.
Availability
As mentioned, the manufacturing process of fiberglass is a complicated one, making it less readily available compared to vinyl. Vinyl windows are much easier to produce; therefore, they are much more accessible in the markets.
Energy efficiency and insulation
Both window options were designed to offer excellent insulation to help you lower your energy bills. Vinyl windows are designed to include hollow pockets that are filled with insulating foam, making them highly efficient for heating, cooling, and protecting your home from extreme temperatures.
However, fiberglass window frames do have less insulation compared to vinyl windows. And because fiberglass windows are fastened at the joints, they will weaken over time and could lead to dust, air, and water infiltration. Vinyl windows, on the other hand, are fusion welded which make them stronger.
If you want to know more about how to choose the right windows, we have the perfect replacement windows you are searching for to improve the look and value of your home.
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