While considering home replacement windows, one question is sure to crop up. There’s a perpetual debate between fiberglass VS. vinyl windows. Which one is right for you?
Let’s start with the basics. If you’re replacing old, leaky windows, either choice is sure to be an improvement. There’s no arguing the fact that modern home replacement windows will help eliminate heat loss and help improve overall energy efficiency.
Top line manufacturers offer the homeowner a number of choices. Anderson Windows and Marvin Windows offer fiberglass options, while Champion Windows and Harvey Windows offer vinyl. Pella Windows handle both fiberglass and vinyl windows. All of these are extremely high quality home replacement windows. How can a homeowner choose what’s right for them?
Price is an important consideration. If you’re choosing between vinyl replacement windows and fiberglass replacement windows, you’ll often find that vinyl replacement windows are the more affordable option. The savings might not appear to be great at first: a high quality vinyl replacement window is often close in price to a fiberglass replacement window — however, when you consider that savings multiplied by the number of windows you’re replacing, the savings can be substantial.
Another issue is maintenance. Both fiberglass and vinyl replacement windows are low maintenance: clean up is easy. Vinyl replacement windows never require painting. They’re designed so that the color goes all the way through: the inevitable ding or scratch won’t show. Fiberglass windows can be painted, if you so desire. If you change your home’s look frequently, this may be an advantage.
The look of your home is well worth considering. Chances are that you’ll find styles that please you on either side of the Fiberglass vs. Vinyl debate. Options range from the traditional to the fantastic. It’s well worth your time to find exactly the style you’re looking for, and then find out what materials are available.
Increasing numbers of homeowners are concerned about environmental issues. Who comes out ahead in the Fiberglass vs. Vinyl Windows battle when it comes to Mother Earth? Vinyl replacement windows and fiberglass replacement windows both significantly contribute to a home’s energy efficiency, a big plus as this allows the home owners to expend less energy heating and cooling their home. After environmentalists raised concerns about dioxin levels related to vinyl siding and windows, the vinyl industry underwent voluntary reforms. As a result, dioxin emissions from vinyl windows and siding have been reduced by over 70% — sure to make anyone who loves the planet smile!
Finally, there’s the issue of installation to consider. Finding a reputable building contractor or replacement window specialist to install your new windows may be the single most critical step you can take to ensure your success. Consider what replacement window dealers are local to you, and what your installation options are. You want to have the best people possible working on your home: even the best windows won’t serve you well if they’re not installed properly! Fiberglass Windows
I have recently found in my area (OKC) that Champion vinyl windows are more expensive than Pella fiberglass. And I’m not talking a few dollars, over $2000 difference. I’m going with the fiberglass, thank you very much.
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