Choosing Between Fibrex® Material and Fiberglass: What Every Homeowner Should Know

 

Choosing the right window material is like picking the perfect outfit for your home – it’s about more than just looks. Windows not only set the aesthetic tone but also play a significant role in your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and durability. With a variety of materials to choose from, each with its own unique pros and cons, it’s crucial to find the material that perfectly complements your home’s personality.

The right window material can transform your home’s atmosphere, enhancing its warmth, style, and overall value. Renewal by Andersen believes in providing homeowners with knowledge, so you can make informed decisions that align with your unique needs and preferences. When considering window replacements, two materials are considered for strong window frames: Fibrex® material and fiberglass.

 

 

 

Understanding Fibrex® Material and Fiberglass Materials

 

Fibrex® material is made of 60% thermoplastic polymer and 40% wood fiber for durability, effectively resisting rotting and warping. Fiberglass is composed of glass-reinforced plastic. This window frame material is known for its strength and consistent performance under temperature changes.

Fibrex® material offers good insulation and is energy-efficient, though fiberglass provides slightly better insulation. When it comes to maintenance, Fibrex® material is low effort, resisting fading and flaking. Fiberglass requires minimal upkeep and can be repainted.

Aesthetically, Fibrex® offers a range of colors and a wood-like appearance, while fiberglass has fewer color choices with a painted look. Fibrex® is valued for its unique blend of strength and low maintenance, and fiberglass stands out for its superior thermal insulation.

 

 

Durability and Lifespan

For windows that are strong, sturdy, and can withstand the test of time, even in the face of unpredictable weather, choose Fibrex® material.

If you live in an area where the weather swings from hot, dry summers to cold, wet winters, Fibrex® material might be the best option for you. With this composite material, you don’t have to worry about your windows warping or rotting from the constant changes in temperature. This material is incredibly strong and resistant to even the most extreme weather conditions nationwide.

Andersen designed Fibrex® material to resist fungal growth and corrosion, keeping your window frames looking their best for years to come. This composite material eliminates pesky repairs and constant maintenance while keeping your home looking great for a long time.

 

 

Likewise, fiberglass resists changes over time because of weather conditions and UV radiation. Protecting your home from  UV rays helps maintain the window frame’s color and integrity over time.

Additionally, fiberglass has a low thermal expansion rate. That means that it expands and contracts very little with temperature changes. This quality reduces stress on seals and joints, extending the window’s lifespan. Fiberglass can also be water-resistant to prevent rot and decay, making it an excellent option for humid or coastal regions.

Both Fibrex® material and fiberglass offer significant advantages in terms of durability and lifespan. While Fibrex® material provides structural rigidity and resistance to decay, fiberglass offers excellent resistance to environmental aging factors like UV rays and moisture. These properties contribute to the overall longevity of the windows, reducing the need for replacements and offering long-term value to homeowners.

Since both materials promise extended lifespans and minimal upkeep, each of them is a sound investment for long-term home improvements. The choice ultimately depends on individual requirements and the specific challenges of the local climate.

 

Energy Efficiency

At Renewal by Andersen, we understand that saving energy and being eco-friendly are important concerns for homeowners today. Fibrex® material and fiberglass are both great options for energy-efficient solutions. Windows built with these materials are designed to keep homes comfortable by reducing energy consumption. They are eco-friendly choices, thanks to their excellent insulating properties.

Made from recycled wood fiber, Fibrex® material is the more sustainable option. Fibrex® material is a unique blend of wood fiber and thermoplastic polymer that offers exceptional thermal insulation. This material is perfect for maintaining a consistent indoor temperature, increasing comfort, and saving energy in homes.

 

 

The use of thermoplastic polymer, which contains some recycled content, further emphasizes its commitment to environmental sustainability. In addition, Fibrex® windows are known for their durability and energy efficiency, resulting in less energy usage over time and fewer replacements. This ultimately contributes to a reduced carbon footprint.

While fiberglass windows are not primarily made from recycled materials, they still have a positive environmental impact. Their superior insulation properties significantly contribute to energy conservation, which helps reduce the energy required for heating and cooling homes. This decrease in energy consumption can reduce greenhouse gas emissions associated with energy production. Additionally, fiberglass windows are highly durable, resulting in a longer lifespan and fewer replacements over time, leading to less waste.

 

Aesthetic and Design Flexibility

At the end of the day, homeowners still want beautiful windows that match their current style. Both Fibrex® material and fiberglass offer the design flexibility to customize your windows according to individual style preferences and the architectural character of the home. With this adaptability, homeowners can select windows that not only meet their functional needs but also complement the aesthetic appeal of their living spaces.

Renewal by Andersen offers various colors and finishes in Fibrex® material. Our custom design options accommodate all preferences, ranging from the classic appearance of natural wood to sleek, modern styles. This flexibility allows homeowners to achieve the exact look they desire, whether it’s a traditional charm or a contemporary edge. Fibrex® material never requires painting and will not crack, pit, corrode, or rot.[1]

 

 

Renewal by Andersen master craftsmen build each made-to-order window replacement with slender window frames and more glass to give our customers a bigger, better view of their outdoor surroundings. No matter what window style you choose, our team of experts works to bring your vision to life and enhance the functionality of your home. Custom design your replacement windows in a free, in-design consultation with professional designers.

While having a somewhat narrower range of color options, fiberglass windows still offer various styles that can blend with both modern and traditional home architectures. The strength of fiberglass allows for slimmer frames, which can provide a more streamlined and elegant appearance. These windows can be finished in several standard colors, and some manufacturers offer custom color options as well. The customization options for fiberglass windows may vary based on the manufacturer or window replacement company you choose.

 

Maintenance and Upkeep

For busy homeowners, low-maintenance windows are a blessing. Homeowners often prefer low-maintenance windows due to the convenience and cost savings they offer. Low-maintenance windows require minimal effort to keep them looking good and functioning well over time, eliminating the need for frequent painting, staining, or repairs. This feature is especially appealing to those with busy lifestyles or for windows in hard-to-reach areas.

Low-maintenance windows typically have durable materials like Fibrex® material or vinyl, which resist weathering, fading, and rotting. In contrast, high-maintenance windows, often made of traditional materials like wood, require regular upkeep to prevent damage from moisture and sun exposure. Additionally, quality construction and design, such as efficient drainage systems and UV-resistant coatings, contribute to a window’s low-maintenance nature, reducing the need for ongoing care and attention.

 

 

Windows built with Fibrex® material are known for their durability and resistance to environmental factors. These windows will require minimal upkeep, largely due to the material’s resistance to fading, flaking, or warping. Regular cleaning with mild soap and water is typically sufficient to keep these replacement windows looking new. Unlike wood, Fibrex® material doesn’t require painting or staining, making Renewal by Andersen windows ideal for those seeking hassle-free upkeep. Periodic checks of seals and weatherstripping can further ensure their longevity.

Fiberglass windows also score high on the low-maintenance scale. While they can be repainted, it’s often unnecessary for several years, as the finish maintains its quality over a long period. Routine cleaning with mild detergents and checking for seal integrity help preserve their condition. The durable nature of fiberglass means it holds up well against various weather conditions, reducing the frequency of maintenance tasks.

For both materials, Renewal by Andersen encourages an occasional inspection of your windows for proper functioning of hardware and moving parts. These minimal maintenance requirements contribute significantly to the long-term value and appeal of windows built with Fibrex® material or fiberglass, making both materials a practical choice for modern homeowners.

 

Installation and Warranty Services

Fibrex® material and fiberglass require professional installation for the best possible performance results over time.

Renewal by Andersen, the exclusive provider of Fibrex® material windows, offers comprehensive installation and customer care services. Our goal is to provide a hassle-free experience for every customer. Renewal by Andersen includes Fibrex® material is its unique limited warranty. It is the only warranty among top selling window companies that meets all of the following requirements: easy to understand terms, unrestricted transferability, installation coverage, labor coverage, geographically unrestricted, exterior color, insect screens and hardware, and no maintenance requirement. Visit renewalbyandersen.com/nationsbest for details.

 

 

In contrast, fiberglass windows are available from various manufacturers, but you may have external contractors to provide professional installation and aftercare services. Warranty options may vary based on the manufacturer and window replacement company you choose.

 

Real-World User Experiences

Homeowners who have chosen Fibrex® material for their window replacement projects often highlight its durability and aesthetic appeal. They appreciate that this composite material is twice as strong and lasts twice as long as standard vinyl. Our customers see the evidence of Fibrex® material’s resistance to environmental wear and tear, and the minimal aging or damage over time. The wood-like appearance is also a significant draw for those who prefer a traditional look without the maintenance of real wood.

In contrast, customers who choose fiberglass for their windows praise the strength and energy-saving capabilities. These windows are commended for their resilience to various weather conditions, maintaining structural integrity and offering a sleek, modern design that suits contemporary home styles.

Homeowners have observed notable improvements in insulation with both types of window frame materials, leading to more stable indoor temperatures and reduced energy bills.

 

 

Conclusion

In conclusion, when deciding between Fibrex® material and fiberglass for your window replacement, it’s clear that both materials offer unique advantages. Fibrex® material stands out for its durability, energy efficiency, and low maintenance, making it an excellent choice for those seeking a balance of performance and sustainability. Fiberglass, known for its strength and insulation properties, is ideal for homeowners prioritizing energy savings and longevity. Ultimately, your choice will depend on your specific needs, aesthetic preferences, and the climate of your area.

Whichever material you choose, professional installation will affect all the benefits of these advanced window frame materials. If you’re interested in learning more about Fibrex® material, Renewal by Andersen has a local office near you and our team of experts would be happy to speak with you directly. Contact us today!

 

[1] See Renewal by Andersen® Products and Installation Transferable Limited Warranty for details.