Vinyl-vs.-Fiberglass-Windows Comparing windows made from modern materials, especially vinyl and fiberglass windows, is really like comparing two great automobiles. You’re getting something very similar with each, and really the only difference is how much you want out of your window, and how much you’re willing to pay. You can get a window similar to a Hyundai, one that is reliable and that will work well and will be useful, or you can get one a bit more like a BMW, one that does all that but with a little extra to spare. So, without further ado, let’s look at similarities between modern and vinyl fiberglass windows.

The Similarities Between Vinyl and Fiberglass Windows

Vinyl and fiberglass windows are booth good windows for any home,  and both are likely to add value to the home as well as being an improvement over any window older than a decade or so. Here are a few ways that they are similar to each other, ways in which they are both fantastic window choices for anyone looking to upgrade their old windows:
  • Both are made of man-made materials. This means that they are likely to be more sturdy, more hardy, and better able to withstand the wintry seasons and the winds and sun than other natural materials.
  • Both vinyl and fiberglass windows are capable of improving the climate control of your home. They let out less heat or air conditioning, and let in less of the outside environment.
  • Both are easy to work with and easily customizable.
Now, it’s time to talk about the ways in which they differ, beginning with vinyl windows.

Vinyl Windows

Vinyl windows are, of the two, the option that lags slightly in most categories.  However, the important way in which they are preferable to the fiberglass windows on the market is that they are more affordable. Another great benefit, especially for those readers who are hoping to do their home improvement work on their own, is that the vinyl windows are already stocked in most hardware stores.  Go to whatever local hardware store you like that is sizable and carries window supplies, and you are likely to be able to find vinyl windows there.  This is not something that can be said for fiberglass windows, which are usually made-to-order.

Fiberglass Windows

Fiberglass windows are, in most ways, better than their vinyl counterparts. A few ways in which fiberglass windows are superior to vinyl windows include:
  • They are stronger than vinyl windows. Not by much, but every little bit helps, of course.
  • Unlike vinyl windows, painting a fiberglass window is a simple thing.
  • They are greener, as they consist of sixty percent glass. Glass is recyclable, which also means that unlike vinyl, they are easily recyclable.
  • Fiberglass has better resale value, and retains its value better than vinyl over time.
  • Capable of mimicking the look of other windows. Fiberglass is capable of taking on the appearance of many other materials, including wood grain, where vinyl is usually not capable of the same.
So which is right for you?  That is a difficult question to answer without knowing particulars.  If you’re looking for new windows for your own home, you’re going to want to contact a home improvement professional, such as the professionals at National Home Improvement. Our window experts can help explain the benefits for your home between one or the other, as well as being able to help you choose the option best applicable to your budget.