The Fiberglass vs. Vinyl Debate

When you’re researching replacement windows & doors, the possibilities can seem endless. However, there are ways to narrow down your options to make the decision a little easier. Here are a few guidelines to look at if you’re deciding between fiberglass and vinyl, but there is no better source than talking to one a window replacement expert in Denver.

[Read more about The Spruce’s ‘Vinyl vs. Fiberglass windows & doors: Which One Is Best?’ here]

Taken from the article:

Brief
Physically, fiberglass windows & doors tend to be superior to vinyl windows & doors. If you are interested in remodeling for the long run or in resale values, fiberglass windows & doors are the clear choice.

However, vinyl windows & doors’ lower cost make them a close contender. Since new construction vinyl windows & doors are readily available in-stock in major home improvement stores, they can be DIY-installed, saving on labor costs.

Main Points You Should Know

• Strength: Fiberglass is stronger than vinyl, with fewer chances of warping.
• Paintability: Fiberglass framed windows & doors can be painted, unlike vinyl.
• Eco-Friendliness: Fiberglass windows & doors are considered greener than vinyl because fiberglass windows & doors are about 60% glass, and glass can be recycled.
• Wood-Look: Fiberglass can mimic the look of wood windows & doors more than vinyl windows & doors can.
• Resale: Considered more upscale than vinyl windows & doors–better resale value.
• Cost: Vinyl will always be cheaper than fiberglass, at least in the foreseeable future. Expect to pay 15%-30% more for fiberglass than for vinyl.

Materials
For vinyl windows & doors, extruded polyvinyl chloride (PVC) is the base material. Inner structural elements that stiffen the framing may include metal.

For fiberglass windows & doors, polyester resins are activated by a catalyst and then pultruded, or pulled, through a heated die.

Strands of glass or glass mats are impregnated into resins. The finished product is called a lineal and it’s machinable and can be shaped. Fiberglass has long been used to create ultra-strong, lightweight materials for skis, surfboards, and canoes.