Fiberglass Vs Aluminum Clad Windows

Fiberglass windows are superior to aluminum windows in many ways.

Fiberglass vs aluminum clad windows.

Composite or fiberglass materials are the newest option in the replacement window market. Pella windows are available in 3 vinyl window series 3 wood window series including the architect series in both traditional and contemporary formats and impervia fiberglass windows. Aluminum windows are a popular choice for people looking for windows with thin frames and large glass surface. Aluminum windows may be the most durable.

In fact their durability is one of their main selling points. The fiberglass cladding is resistant to this corrison. Expect a mid range aluminum or fiberglass window to run 550 to 650 installed for a typical sized double hung window. This is especially true of properly anodized aluminum windows.

But they are pricey. They re made from materials similar to car bumpers and are heavy duty durable and meant to last. Aluminum windows that are properly anodized and maintained can last for decades. Like vinyl windows aluminum windows are typically more affordable than other materials like fiberglass wood or wood clad windows.

But fiberglass has the additional advantage of being paintable while vinyl windows are difficult to paint and maintain over the long term. There are five main types of window frames. The architect series is an aluminum clad wood window with exceptional beauty. Fiberglass windows are a good choice in any climate.

Fiberglass windows energy efficiency. One of the major drawbacks that aluminum windows have always had versus their counterparts has been energy efficiency. Fiberglass expands and contracts at the same rate as the glass which will eliminate any condensation between the glass which will hold up to mother nature much better and last much longer than any wood vinyl composite or aluminum window. Aluminum is a metal and metals are conductors of temperature.

Fiberglass windows are extremely durable. Fiberglass frame windows are the best choice for energy efficiency. However these windows typically carry a high price tag similar to wood windows. Aluminum frame windows are inexpensive and durable but a bad choice from an energy efficiency standpoint.

It should be noted that most wood clad frames use an aluminum or a fiberglass as the exterior cladding material each of these offers good long term value given a quality manufacturer and installation. Aluminum is a light non corrosive and strong material extremely durable and low maintenance. Aluminum windows might have extra perks within them that makes them more efficient like multiple panes of glass insulated glass low e glass and warm edge spacers but you can also choose these options with fiberglass windows. Fiberglass windows come in a wide range of colors not found with vinyl windows.