When building or renovating a home, choosing the right window material can be tricky. Two popular options are vinyl and fiberglass, so let’s pit the two against each other to help you learn a bit more about both of them. Vinyl vs. fiberglass windows: What are their benefits and drawbacks? Is one of these window materials right for your home?
Vinyl vs. Fiberglass Windows
If this is the first time you’ve had to select windows, you might be surprised by the sheer amount of options you have to choose from. Selecting window sashes and frames may not seem like a big deal, but it’s an extremely important decision to make. Your windows can have a huge impact on your house’s energy costs, aesthetics, and overall value. So, where do you start?
For most homeowners, the best place to start is with the basics. For modern windows, homeowners typically have two choices: vinyl and fiberglass. Vinyl windows are made of PVC plastic, and fiberglass windows are made of fiberglass that is joined with additional resins to improve its strength and flexibility.
Fiberglass and vinyl are both easy to maintain and extremely durable. However, these windows do have some distinct differences, and those differences might make the choice a lot easier for you. It comes down to what suits your individual situation the best. When comparing vinyl vs. fiberglass windows, as long as you know what you’re looking for in a window material, you’ll come out on top.
Decorative Options
Your aesthetic preferences will likely play a big role in this decision. You want windows that offer a decorative pop but still match your home’s exterior well. If you’re looking for a wide array of decorative possibilities, fiberglass may be the way to go. Unlike vinyl windows, fiberglass windows can be painted a variety of colors or even conditioned to look like wood. Many people like replacing wooden windows with fiberglass because it provides a similar look that requires less maintenance. However, don’t count vinyl out. While it isn’t as adaptable as fiberglass, there are still dozens of vinyl window styles to choose from.
Installation and Maintenance
If you’re a DIY enthusiast, you may want to look into installing your own windows instead of paying a contractor. If that’s the case, vinyl windows may be a good choice. Vinyl windows are easier to install than fiberglass, and various standard sizes are typically available at home improvement stores. Meanwhile, fiberglass windows are usually only available if ordered directly from a manufacturer. In addition, many come with warranties that can actually be voided if not installed by a professional. On the other hand, fiberglass windows are more durable than vinyl windows and can outlast them by 10 years or more. However, it’s important to keep in mind that properly installed vinyl windows will absolutely go the distance for most homeowners.
Energy Costs
Decorative touches are all well and good, but no matter where you live, energy costs are likely going to be a much bigger consideration. Overall, fiberglass windows offer superior insulation when compared to vinyl, helping you save up to 15 percent on your energy costs. However, vinyl windows are also fairly energy efficient, though they are less “green” than fiberglass due to the chemicals used to create them. If you’re an eco-conscious consumer, fiberglass might be the right call.
Price
Sometimes your home improvement project comes down to the budget. In this situation, vinyl windows will most likely give you more bang for your buck. While both vinyl windows and fiberglass windows are cheaper than wood treatments, vinyl offers significant savings over fiberglass. Vinyl windows are up to a third cheaper than fiberglass for most home improvement projects.
_____
As you can see, when it comes to vinyl vs. fiberglass windows, there’s no clear winner. Instead, it comes down to what you want to do with them. If you still aren’t sure which to pick, give us a call and we’ll help you decide.
Are you in need of high-quality window installation? Check out American Window Company. Since 1999, we have offered an extensive collection of high-quality windows, doors, shutters, blinds, and more. We are a small, family-owned business that is committed to providing excellent workmanship and on-time installation. In addition, we are properly licensed and insured to protect our employees and provide our customers with peace of mind. For a free estimate or more information about our products and services, please contact us today.
