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Welcome to another Windows on Washington FAQ guide. Today we are answering one of our most commonly asked questions: what are the pros and cons of fiberglass windows?
Installing new windows is a great way to increase your home’s value, improve energy efficiency and spruce up your home’s appearance. While fiberglass windows might be a relative newcomer to the replacement window industry, they are undoubtedly a great choice for many. Whether they are a great choice for you will come down to things like your home, budget and personal style.
In this article, we will be looking at some of the key differences between vinyl and fiberglass replacement windows, as well as their individual pros and cons to help make your choice much easier.
Pros of Fiberglass Replacement Windows
- Energy-efficient: Fiberglass is a natural insulator as it does not expand or contract in the heat or cold.
- Durability: Fiberglass windows are sturdy, weather-resistant, and long-lasting. It is quite hard to damage fiberglass windows.
- Versatility: Fiberglass replacement windows can be installed in a range of colors and styles, and if you have a preference for wood windows (without the downsides of wood), some manufacturers have the option of placing wood over the top of the fiberglass on the interior side of the windows.
- Eco-friendly: Being a recyclable material, fiberglass windows are also eco-friendly.
Cons of Fiberglass Replacement Windows
- Fewer options: As fiberglass windows are still somewhat new to the market, there are fewer brand options to choose from.
- Costly: Due to their durability and versatility and very little maintenance, fiberglass windows are more expensive than vinyl.
- Aesthetic: Aesthetics are always a personal choice, and some might not enjoy the look of fiberglass windows as much as say wood windows, for example.
Fiberglass Finishes
When it comes to colors and finishes, fiberglass replacement windows offer some great options, but perhaps not as many as vinyl. What is great about fiberglass windows, however, is they can be painted over once installed (whereas vinyl cannot).
Fiberglass Durability
Fiberglass windows are incredibly durable, meaning they will last your home a very long time. A good quality fiberglass window can last 50 years or more. The reason fiberglass replacement windows are so strong and durable is due to their makeup. Fiberglass frames are reinforced with glass fibers, which adds decent strength to the window. Furthermore, fiberglass does not weaken in the sun like vinyl which often expands and contracts in the heat.
Fiberglass Maintenance
Fiberglass windows are very low maintenance. Any mold, mildew, dirt or moss can easily be hosed off and then scrubbed down with a sponge and some warm water. However, fiberglass windows can fade or peel overtime and will need repainting.
Fiberglass Insulation
Fiberglass replacement windows offer solid insulation. This is because fiberglass windows have hollow cavities, which can be filled with insulation. It also does an excellent job at slowing down the transmission of outside temperatures inside the house.
How Much Does a Replacement Fiberglass Window Cost?
In general, fiberglass windows are more expensive than vinyl, but can last 20 years longer, according to Angi. You can expect to pay $500 to $1,500 for fiberglass windows, while vinyl windows may cost $100 to $900.
Are There Other Windows I Should Consider?
While you can see that fiberglass windows are a great replacement window option, they are not the only option available to you. Vinyl replacement windows are another common and popular replacement window option, as are wood windows.
Take a look at WoW’s comprehensive guide to replacement windows for more information.
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