Fiberglass Vs Vinyl Windows

Windows are an integral part of many aspects of your home. They provide beauty, protection and energy efficiency. It’s important when replacing your windows that you go with the material that offers you all three. If you’ve narrowed your list down to fiberglass vs vinyl windows, we’re here to help you make the right decision.

Window technology has advanced over the years and there are now better options for homeowners. There are many factors to consider when looking for new windows, so it’s important to know as much as possible before you make a final decision.

As the Midwest’s leading window company, we know a thing or two about what windows will work best for your home. In this article, we’ll go over fiberglass vs vinyl windows and which is better for your home.

Vinyl Vs Fiberglass: Performance and Energy Efficiency

A lot of people may think that fiberglass is the more energy efficient option. Most homes are insulated with fiberglass so that must mean fiberglass windows are the more energy efficient option, right? In reality, this is not true.

While fiberglass might be a good insulator itself, window frames made from fiberglass are less efficient than their vinyl counterpart. How can this be?

Fiberglass windows actually have less insulation than vinyl windows which can lead to leaks and air infiltration.

Well-designed vinyl windows will have multiple chambers within the frames that feature foam insulation. This helps create an airtight seal and prohibits any outside air from leaking into your home.

It’s also common for fiberglass windows to weaken over time due to excessive wear and tear near the corners from weather. This compromises the window’s structural integrity.

With vinyl windows’ complex construction, they can handle any weather thrown at them and won’t damage over time.

If both window materials have an energy efficient glass, vinyl windows will best fiberglass in energy efficiency and durability.

Fiberglass Vs Vinyl Windows: Maintenance

As a homeowner, you want to minimize maintenance as much as possible in every aspect. This includes windows.

In terms of fiberglass vs vinyl windows, the material with the least maintenance required is vinyl.

Fiberglass windows can chip, crack and will need to be repainted every so often to keep their beauty. Maintaining your fiberglass windows in the Midwest can end up costing you a lot of money due to the hectic weather.

Vinyl windows were made for the Midwest. Plus, the colors are baked in during manufacturing and won’t fade over time. You’ll never have to worry about painting your windows again.

The only maintenance that vinyl windows require is a good cleaning every once in a while.

Comparing Costs: Vinyl Vs Fiberglass

Another important factor is the cost of replacing windows. Sometimes, the cost alone can be the reason why someone goes with a certain product over another.

Almost always, fiberglass windows will end up costing more than vinyl windows. Fiberglass is one of the most expensive replacement window materials available.

Plus, when you factor in the maintenance that’ll need to be done with fiberglass windows, the cost will definitely outweigh that of vinyl windows.

Vinyl windows are easily the more cost-effective option as they’re less expensive upfront, as well as down the road.

Fiberglass Vs Vinyl Windows: The Looks

Of course, you’re going to want the best possible looking windows for your home. They’re often one of the main design points on your home and are visible to all who pass by.

Until recently, fiberglass windows have been known to offer a more realistic wood look than vinyl windows. Wood grain finishes are very popular among homeowners as they give your home a beauty and elegance like no other.

However, as advancements have been made, vinyl windows now have the ability to look as much like wood as fiberglass windows. That used to be the one thing that fiberglass windows had going for them, but now vinyl has caught up.

Wood grain finishes on vinyl windows nowadays look more realistic than ever before. You also have to take into consideration that fiberglass windows need to be repainted to keep their looks while vinyl windows will never fade or lose their luster.

Fiberglass windows had a good run in this category, but their time has come to an end. Vinyl windows take the cake in looks. Plus, vinyl windows can come in a wide variety of colors besides just wood grain finishes.

And the Winner of Fiberglass Vs Vinyl Windows is…

You guessed it, vinyl windows are an all around better option for your Midwestern home than fiberglass. Vinyl is more energy efficient, less expensive, requires minimal maintenance and offers incredible aesthetics.

Don’t just take our word for it either. Over 400,000 homeowners have trusted Feldco and have helped us earn the title of America’s #1 Window and Door Company.

For all your vinyl replacement window needs, we have you covered. Our product specialists will guide you through the entire process making it as easy and convenient as possible.

Plus, all of our windows are installed by factory trained and certified professionals to ensure your windows get installed correctly.

We make it quick and easy to start your window replacement project. Simply fill out our form for a free quote and you’ll be on your way to a more beautiful and energy efficient home.