Fiberglass vs Vinyl Windows

If you are remodeling your Michigan or Ohio home and want to make it more energy efficient, upgrading your windows is one of the most important steps you can take. When you start researching, you’ll see options for wood, aluminum, vinyl, and fiberglass windows with single, double, triple and even quadruple panes. How do you sort this information out to make the right decision for your home? Here we compare two popular window types–fiberglass windows and vinyl windows–and look at the pros and cons of each.

Fiberglass Windows

The biggest advantage fiberglass windows have over other kinds of windows is their strength. The window frame is stronger than any other popular window frames. Fiberglass replacement windows will last about eight times longer than vinyl replacement windows. Because a fiberglass window frame is so much stronger, windows can contain three or four glazed panes instead of the traditional one or two. These extra layers add more insulation and help Michigan or Ohio homeowners save money. Fiberglass windows also handle temperature fluctuations well and resist degradation from UV light up to five times longer than vinyl panes. Fiberglass is made of a combination of resin and molten glass fibers, making it extremely heat resistant. But even in extremely cold temperatures, the minute shift in a fiberglass frame is not likely to cause structural issues. Another advantage is that fiberglass windows can be painted, so you can refresh the look of your windows over time, or adapt them to a new color scheme. While the upfront cost of fiberglass is slightly higher, installing these windows will save homeowners a substantial amount of money over time. Their three or four panes cut down on energy bills and their durability means fewer repairs and replacements over time.

Vinyl Windows

Vinyl windows are not as strong or as durable as fiberglass panels, and will wear out over time. Vinyl is vulnerable to temperature fluctuations, causing shrinkage in cold winter temperatures and expansion and structural weakness during hot summer months. Vinyl windows often have only one or two panes, which limits their ability to provide insulation. This is due to strength issues with the frame and because shifts due to weather and humidity can cause the panes to develop gaps. The more layers there are, the higher the chance that something will go wrong. A truly problematic property of vinyl windows is that they cannot typically be repaired if anything goes wrong. If a draft develops because of shifts in the frame or a pane is broken, you’ll likely have to replace the entire fixture. Vinyl windows are cheaper to install, but this comparison makes it clear that fiberglass windows will be a better value over time. Your Michigan or Ohio home is your most important investment and when you remodel you want to use only the best materials. Fiberglass replacement windows will look great for years to come, can be painted to match your home’s changing appearance, and will lower your utility bills and energy consumption over time. Spend a little more now to install fiberglass windows, and they will pay for themselves many times over.