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Home : Window Frame Options : Fiberglass Vs. Vinyl
Fiberglass Vs. Vinyl Windows
In the battle between fiberglass vs. vinyl windows, here are four key places to compare and contrast these very different window frame materials - cost, style, strength and energy efficiency.
Tom - HWRC Editor - From 2023
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Pricing & Costs
Fiberglass windows will cost more, perhaps $100 to $150 per window over an equivalent vinyl model. There are a few reasons for this; it is seen as a stronger material and there are much less manufacturers, which means less competition etc. Vinyl is the most popular window frame and there are hundreds of manufacturers in the U.S., meaning more competition and often lower prices and more options etc. A mid range vinyl window will run $425 installed while a fiberglass equivalent will run $550 installed.
Style & Aesthetics
On the style and aesthetics front, it's hard to see a clear winner - literally, it is difficult to tell a fiberglass and vinyl window apart even from right up close. It comes down to the actual product; for instance the Marvin Infinity fiberglass window is widely regarded as a very nice looking window, while the Pella Impervia is often knocked by industry experts for its overall look. On the vinyl front, the Okna 800 model (identical to the HiMark 800 model) is regarded as a very nice looking window, while some of the Gorell windows are big and bulky - although generally regarded as a high quality company and product (now owned by Soft-Lite).
Strength & Durability
Fiberglass windows have the advantage over vinyl windows, with fiberglass manufacturers giving them an 8 to 1 strength ratio over vinyl. Fiberglass will hold up over time, however a well made vinyl window will provide all of the strength that a homeowner will reasonably need.
Energy Efficiency
For a long term perspective, fiberglass is probably a bit more energy efficient than vinyl. Two comparable products will usually have the same basic numbers (U-factor, SHGC, VT and AI). Over time, the vinyl window typically will have a slightly bigger decline in overall energy efficiency than the fiberglass frame. A good quality vinyl window though shouldn't decline too much though and it would be difficult for a homeowner to probably tell the difference.
Bottom Line
Both of these window frames offer some nice advantages for homeowners. Fiberglass frames are stronger and probably offer better energy efficiency over the long term, but a good vinyl window will suite most homeowners just fine. If the $100 to $150 per window is not a big deal for you, buy a nice fiberglass window and you will be happy. If that price difference hurts your budget, select a nice quality vinyl window with good installation and you will be happy for a long time down the road.
Vinyl Windows vs Fiberglass 2022
Restoration Windows (Fiberglass/Vinyl Hybrid)
14 Double Hungs
Dimensions: Various Sizes
Price Quote: $992/window
Included Install
State: Pennsylvania
Project Bid from 2022
Pella Fiberglass Impervia
19 Single Hungs
Sizes: 36 inches by 72 inches
Quote: $23.8K
Included Installation
Area: Dallas Texas
Project Bid from 2022
VS
Pella 250
19 Single Hungs
Sizes: 36 inches by 72 inches
Quote: $20.1K
Included Installation
Area: Dallas Texas
Project Bid from 2022
Provia Endure
14 Double Hungs
Dimensions: Various Sizes
Price Quote: $785/window
Included Install
State: Pennsylvania
Project Bid from 2022
Vinyl Windows vs Fiberglass
Hi Tom, thanks for your response to my window inquiry. We are considering the Anlin Del Mar window which you mentioned. That fits best with our budget. We got 4 bids for 4 different brands ranging from $14,000 to $22,000 for 12 windows with the Anlin at $15,000.
We don't really need the crème de la crème in windows, but we want something good and durable that's affordable. All the sales pitches seem to derate vinyl and push for some more expensive materials such as fiberglass. What is your perspective regarding vinyl for Colorado at 6,000 ft elevation?
I would appreciate your thoughts on this.
Don - Homeowner - from 2023
[Site Editor's Answer]
Don, our sister site just did a video on this exact subject if you want to take a listen -- and could you click the subscribe button??? It comes in at second 30 -- this really helps me out!!!
Fiberglass vs. Vinyl Windows Video
Anlin at 6000 is gonna be just fine :)
Tom - HWRC Editor - from 2023