New windows can be an exciting change for your home, but the implications of the choice you make can be pretty significant. Deciding between vinyl vs. fiberglass windows are common window options among homeowners building a home or replacing existing windows.
To make the best decision for your home, it’s important to understand what both fiberglass and vinyl windows are and do a direct comparison on some key factors. We’ll also cover some tips on how to choose so you can feel confident in your decision.
- Fiberglass Windows Explained
- Vinyl Windows Explained
- Comparing Vinyl vs. Fiberglass Windows
- How to Choose
- Vinyl vs. Fiberglass Window FAQ
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Fiberglass Windows Explained
To make fiberglass, glass is heated at very high temperatures, pulled into fine fibers, woven together, and mixed with resins to mold it into the desired shape. When used to make fiberglass window frames, the resulting product is a very durable, weather-resistant, and low-maintenance window option. Unlike wood, fiberglass does not rot or require applications of varnish every few years. Fiberglass windows also have a thinner profile and more customization options for homeowners seeking a truly unique look.
Fiberglass Windows Pros and Cons
When deciding between vinyl or fiberglass windows, it’s important to consider the pros and cons of each. Fiberglass windows offer several compelling benefits, most notably their durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance.
For homeowners looking for a high-quality product with a long lifespan, fiberglass windows are your best bet. These benefits do come with some drawbacks, in particular the higher upfront cost and slightly more complicated installation. Over time, this high upfront cost can end up paying for itself in performance and energy savings.
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Fiberglass Window Pros
When comparing fiberglass windows vs. vinyl windows, some key differences give fiberglass a leg up. No other material can match the durability and weather resistance of fiberglass. Even in extremely hot environments, fiberglass resists warping and maintains a tight seal year-round, improving thermal performance and keeping homes comfortable. Fiberglass windows are also thinner and allow for a variety of design options and customizations to match your home’s aesthetic, including painting.
- Durability: Fiberglass window frames are rigid, long-lasting, and extremely durable, even in harsh weather conditions
- Energy Efficiency: Excellent insulation and thermal performance year-round help decrease energy costs
- Low Maintenance: Little to no maintenance is required other than routine cleaning
Fiberglass Window Cons
The primary con with fiberglass windows is the upfront investment. Fiberglass windows cost anywhere from 10 to 30% more on average than their vinyl counterparts. If you plan to be in your home long term, this initial investment will be well worth it, and with a few home improvement financing tips it might be more realistic than you think.
While the strength and durability of fiberglass windows allow them to last longer, they also make installation and fiberglass window replacement slightly more difficult. You have less room for error, and you often need a professional installation; otherwise, you risk negating the manufacturer’s warranty.
- Higher Upfront Costs: When it comes to windows, fiberglass options cost more upfront than vinyl or aluminum options
- Limited Design Options: Unless you make a custom order, design options are slightly limited with fiberglass windows
- Professional Installation Required: The rigidity of fiberglass makes them harder to install on your own, especially in non-standard openings
- Not Readily Available: Usually made-to-order, fiberglass windows are not readily available in local home improvement stores
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Vinyl Windows Explained
Vinyl window frames are made from a synthetic plastic you might be familiar with called polyvinyl chloride (PVC) and often have multiple chambers for enhanced insulation. Vinyl windows are a popular choice among homeowners because of their affordability, low maintenance, and durability. With vinyl windows, you don’t have to worry about potential rotting, pests, or applying coats of stain every few years. Vinyl windows are an appealing option for homeowners looking for an easy-to-maintain and budget-conscious window option.
Vinyl Window Pros and Cons
With super low maintenance, good energy efficiency and insulation, and a variety of style and color options, vinyl windows make an excellent choice for more budget-conscious homeowners. They do have some limitations, including less weather-resistant, lower performance in harsh climates, and shorter overall lifespan. Now that we’ve covered fiberglass windows in detail, let’s examine the pros and cons of vinyl windows so you can make an informed decision.
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Vinyl Window Pros
One of the primary benefits of vinyl windows is cost efficiency. The upfront cost, installation fees, and even vinyl window glass replacement will all be less expensive compared to fiberglass. At the same time, they are similarly low maintenance, customizable, reliable, and energy-efficient to fiberglass windows. This makes vinyl windows an appealing option for cost-conscious homeowners, especially when compared to wood or aluminum window options.
- Lower Energy Costs: Excellent insulation properties help to reduce energy costs
- Low Maintenance: Little to no maintenance is required other than the occasional cleaning
- Customization: Available in a variety of styles and colors to meet your design preferences
- More Affordable: One of the most affordable window options on the market, vinyl windows are also more suitable for DIY projects so you can save on installation costs as well
Vinyl Window Cons
There aren’t any problems with vinyl windows, but they have some limitations that may affect your decision. The overall durability and longevity will decrease compared to fiberglass windows. This is true for energy efficiency as well, with vinyl windows performing slightly less well than fiberglass, especially in harsher climates. While manufacturers offer vinyl windows in many styles and colors, they provide slightly more limited options, and homeowners cannot paint over them once they choose a color.
- Less Durability: Vinyl windows are slightly less rigid and durable than fiberglass
- Color Limitations: Not quite as many color options available for customization, and painting vinyl windows isn’t an option
- Heat Sensitivity: In extreme heat, vinyl is susceptible to expanding and warping, which affects the seal and overall performance
- Size and Weight Limitations: With certain restrictions on size and weight, you may be limited in terms of design
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Comparing Vinyl vs. Fiberglass Windows
To make sure you select a window material best suited for your home and needs, it’s crucial to do a direct comparison on some key factors like cost, durability, maintenance, and energy efficiency. Knowing how each material performs in these areas will help you select the option that aligns with your goals and needs. Let’s take a look at how vinyl and fiberglass stack up in a few key categories.
Cost and Value
As we’ve discussed, fiberglass windows are a higher-end product that comes with a steeper price tag. When you consider the price over their average lifespan of 50+ years, it may be a better investment for you. If you only plan to be in your home short term and need a budget-conscious option, vinyl windows may be the right choice. When it does come time to sell, fiberglass windows will result in the best financial return and are more likely to pass a home inspection with flying colors.
Durability and Lifespan
If you’re looking for the best option in terms of durability and overall lifespan, fiberglass wins over vinyl every time. In some cases, fiberglass windows can last twice as long as vinyl windows. Even if you live in the mildest climate, normal wear and tear and overall durability are worth considering.
Energy Efficiency
Both vinyl and fiberglass windows provide good insulation and energy efficiency, but over time vinyl windows are more likely to decrease in performance. They are less durable and prone to warping, reducing the energy efficiency of the window. Fiberglass holds up better over time and provides excellent energy efficiency.
Maintenance Requirements
Both fiberglass and vinyl windows are essentially maintenance-free. Both require regular cleaning, which you can accomplish using a warm rag and soap. This simple upkeep is very manageable compared to other window options like wood.
Aesthetics and Customization
In general, fiberglass windows are more customizable and have a slightly more elevated look compared to vinyl windows. Both are available in a number of window styles like picture windows, casement windows, and double-hung windows. Vinyl and fiberglass options also offer color choices, but you cannot paint vinyl.
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Choosing Vinyl vs. Fiberglass Windows For Your Home
When deciding between vinyl and fiberglass windows, there are several factors you’ll want to consider, including budget, local climate, and design preferences. Although the upfront budget dictates much of a project, keep longevity and your long-term plans in mind. Over time, you may end up saving more than you think with the energy efficiency of a higher-quality product. At the end of the day, the decision should come down to your specific needs and goals and what’s most important for your home.
Climate Considerations
Do you live in an area with extreme temperatures, particularly extreme heat? If so, you may want to rule out vinyl windows as they are prone to warping and expanding in the heat and sun. In contrast, manufacturers build fiberglass windows to last, and these windows can withstand nearly any weather condition.
Budget Constraints
With any home improvement project, budget is a key factor in all of the related decisions. Budget-conscious homeowners will find vinyl windows to be more affordable upfront compared to fiberglass windows. With vinyl windows, you also have the option to DIY the installation to save even more, due to the less complex nature of the installation process.
Longevity and Long-Term Plans
If you plan to be in your home or business long term, you might consider investing more upfront in quality materials that will last a long time. While vinyl windows are great for those needing a budget-friendly and shorter-term option, the durability and longevity of fiberglass windows far exceed vinyl.
Aesthetic Preferences
Both fiberglass and vinyl windows are available in a variety of design styles, but fiberglass windows have more color options and generally look higher-end. The fiberglass frame is thinner, allowing for more glass area and better views through the window. Fiberglass is also paintable, while vinyl windows are not. Overall, fiberglass is more customizable to your home’s aesthetic and your unique design style.
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Vinyl vs. Fiberglass Windows FAQ
Are fiberglass or vinyl windows better?
The answer to this question depends on your unique situation and what you’re looking for in a window. For ultimate performance and longevity, fiberglass is the clear front-runner between the two. For cost-effectiveness with slightly less durability and longevity, vinyl is an excellent option.
What are the disadvantages of fiberglass windows?
Fiberglass is a premium product and thus comes with a higher price tag upfront. Due to its rigid nature, it’s less easy to DIY and often requires professional installation to keep the warranty intact. You will almost always find them made-to-order, meaning you won’t be able to find them at your local home improvement store.
What are the disadvantages of vinyl windows?
Compared to fiberglass windows, vinyl windows are less durable and overall have a shorter lifespan. In extreme temperatures like high heat, the vinyl can bend and warp, causing the seal between the glass and the frame to loosen up over time. The less tight this seal is, the lower the performance of the window which ultimately impacts your energy bill.
Are fiberglass windows worth it?
If you plan to be in your home long term, fiberglass windows are worth the higher upfront costs, especially if you compare them to other window alternatives like wood. Over time, the superior performance of the window can lower your energy costs and end up paying for itself.
What other types of windows are there?
There are over a dozen different types of windows but the two most common window frame types are aluminum and wood. Aluminum windows are durable and low maintenance but do not provide the same level of energy efficiency as fiberglass or vinyl. Wood windows are often custom, making them quite expensive and require more maintenance to prevent rot and pests.
How much more are fiberglass windows than vinyl?
For the product itself, you can expect to pay between 10 and 30 percent more for fiberglass windows vs. vinyl windows. In practical terms, this can mean anywhere from $50 to $1,000 more per window. When comparing costs between the two, you’ll also want to consider installation costs, which are slightly higher with fiberglass windows due to the higher complexity of installation.
What is the main difference between vinyl and fiberglass windows?
The biggest difference between fiberglass vs. vinyl windows is the overall longevity of the product. Fiberglass windows are more durable and resistant to weather extremes, making them last 50 or more years. Vinyl windows, on the other hand, are less durable and are prone to warping in extreme weather, with an overall lifespan of 20 to 30 years.