Are Fiberglass Windows better than Vinyl Windows?

The evolution of window manufacturing is continuously progressing. In the early 20th Century, wooden and aluminum windows were the standard materials used in the window fabrication process. In the 1980’s, as technological advancements in manufacturing machinery improved, the rise of vinyl and fiberglass windows began entering their way into the market. Since then, vinyl and fiberglass have taken over as the most common materials for replacement and new construction windows.

When homeowners are in the process of replacing their windows, a common question that comes up is ‘Are fiberglass windows better than vinyl windows?’ In this article, we will go over the main differences between fiberglass and vinyl windows and offer valuable insight between the two so you can stay informed and determine if fiberglass windows are the best option for your project.

What’s the Difference?

Strength & Durability

There are quite a few differences between fiberglass windows and vinyl windows. The main differences are strength and durability. On average, fiberglass is 4-8 times stronger than vinyl meaning larger window configurations and shapes are achievable without the frames bowing or warping. Both fiberglass and vinyl are energy efficient materials for window frames. However, fiberglass is the clear winner when it comes to performance. The resin and glass fibers in fiberglass allow for very minimal expansion and contraction that occurs due to changes in temperature. This makes fiberglass the superior option when compared to vinyl.

Aesthetics

Another thing to consider when comparing fiberglass windows and vinyl windows is looks and aesthetics. Overall, fiberglass windows have a cleaner finish and low gloss. Vinyl windows tend to have a higher gloss due to the nature of PVC material as opposed to Fiberglass windows which resemble a more natural look. Similar to that of a smooth wooden finish. Fiberglass windows can also be painted in comparison to vinyl which does not adhere well to paint.

Price

It’s clear that the advantages of fiberglass windows surely outweigh vinyl windows. For that reason, fiberglass windows are more expensive. How much more expensive? That is dependent on a couple of factors. The main ones being size and the configuration. On average, fiberglass windows run 30-40% more than vinyl windows.

Now that you understand the main differences between fiberglass and vinyl windows, it is time to determine if upgrading to fiberglass is the right choice for you. Feel free to reach out for a FREE In-Home consultation where we will go over the options available in greater depth and get you one step closer to achieving the look of your dream home.