If you believe that window restoration is not an option for you, and your windows require replacement, a whole new range of issues comes up, requiring your attention and more decisions to be made. Wood is a beautiful material that requires a lot of upkeep, but we will not discuss wood window installation here, focusing, rather, on two other poplar window types – vinyl and fiberglass. Here’s a quick rundown on the pros and cons of each type, so, hopefully, we’ll make this choice a little easier for you.
Strength
Fiberglass
Up to 9 times stronger than vinyl and 3 times stronger than aluminum – that’s an amazing result. In fact, the material is so sturdy that it requires diamond blades to be cut due to the presence of reinforced glass fibers. Since the material is so strong, the frames can be smaller, allowing for more light and more beautiful views. The material also proves amazingly rigid in any climate.
Vinyl
Vinyl is a strong enough material if no unusual stress is placed on the frame. However, when the foundation begins to be settled with time, the frame may become distorted.
Durable
Fiberglass
Not subject to sunlight and high-temperature damage, fiberglass is probably the most durable material these days, especially for the little amount of maintenance it requires. Its very special and unique characteristics include the fact that it contracts at the same rate as the window pane glass, due to the presence of glass fibers, which decreases the chances of the window seal failing.
Vinyl
Sunlight exposure weakens the vinyl frames to an extent, and, moreover, glass panes and vinyl frames expand and contract at different rates, placing stress on the seal and potentially creating drafts.
Energy efficiency
Fiberglass
Fiberglass window frames will actually decrease energy bills, and adding options such as low-E glazing, krypton/argon infills and double panes will further improve their energy performance.
Vinyl
Vinyl is an efficient insulating material and doesn’t conduct heat, keeping your home warm.
Design options
Fiberglass
Fiberglass offers the widest range of color and finishes for the best compatibility with your design ideas. From natural finishes like pine and alder to solid colors like brick red and forest green, you’ll be sure to find the perfect match for your taste. Fiberglass windows can also be repainted, with the manufacturer’s warranty remaining in place.
Vinyl
White and creamy white options are predominant, and there’s no repainting vinyl frames without voiding the warranty.