Wood and vinyl windows are among the most popular choices, but fiberglass window sales are increasing as people become more familiar with this alternative. That said, fiberglass windows still account for just a small amount of the market share for window sales. Understanding the differences between fiberglass and vinyl replacement windows will make it easier to decide which of these windows is right for your home.

Fiberglass Looks Better

People typically like the look of wood windows better than that of synthetic materials, and fiberglass can mimic the look of wood better than vinyl. People often find fiberglass windows more aesthetically pleasing with their thinner frames than vinyl windows. Fiberglass windows can also be painted, which isn’t the case with vinyl. Finishes available for some fiberglass window products make them less likely to fade than vinyl windows.

Fiberglass Lasts Longer

A fiberglass window may last as long as 50 years due to the strength of this material, while a vinyl window typically only lasts 20 or 30 years. Depending on the quality of the window, fiberglass can be as much as eight times stronger due to the glass fibers used to make the window. In addition, fiberglass doesn’t melt at high temperatures like vinyl can, so the frames are less likely to warp.

Vinyl Costs Less

Vinyl is a lower cost alternative to fiberglass windows, with each window usually costing somewhere between $150 and $650 per window including installation compared to between $300 and $900 per fiberglass window. Stronger, higher-quality windows and larger windows fall toward the higher end of these price ranges.

Fiberglass Can Be More Energy Efficient

Fiberglass windows have a hollow space that can be filled with insulation to make them about 15 percent more energy efficient than vinyl windows. Also, fiberglass expands and contracts the same as the glass, so it doesn’t lose its seal like vinyl windows can over time in areas that experience large variations in temperature.

Fiberglass May Be Better for the Environment

Fiberglass is made from a renewable resource – sand – which can make them a better choice for those looking for an environmentally friendly window. These windows consist of 60 percent glass, which is a recyclable material. Fiberglass doesn’t burn, but vinyl does and can also release harmful gases when it burns.

Fiberglass Windows Provide More Noise Insulation

If you live in a particularly noisy area, springing for fiberglass windows may help cut down some of the outside noise that makes it inside the home. Vinyl can’t do this.

Fiberglass Is Better Suited for Large Windows

Because fiberglass windows have more structural stability than vinyl windows, they are a better choice if you have particularly large windows or triple-paned windows.

The professionals at Fischer Window and Door Store can help you choose the right windows for your home. All windows are made to order, so they’ll be just the right fit.