Homeowners looking to replace their homes existing windows or purchase windows for new construction have many options available, but the primary choices are wood, vinyl, and fiberglass. In today’s market, the latter option is a relative new-comer to the window market that is making an impression -; Fiberglass Windows.
Below are some of the many benefits of fiberglass windows installed by website that makes them so desirable:
- Green Choice -; Fiberglass is derived from sand (silica sand specifically) which is a naturally occurring resource. It also offers substantial energy-saving benefits over other window materials. Fiberglass is truly sustainable in that it is completely recyclable and its production requires less energy consumption than that of wood or vinyl windows.
- Insulating Factor -; Unlike its wooden or vinyl counterparts, because fiberglass windows frames are made almost completely of spun fibers, they shrink or expand slightly, depending on the temperature, improving energy-savings and increasing strength. With their low U-factor and high R-value, the average energy savings is usually between 20 and 40 percent.
- Longevity -; Fiberglass is unaffected by temperature extremes, moisture, sea water, and ultraviolet rays, making it a perfect choice for any climate. It is resistant to warping, fading, cracking, rotting, sagging, and insect infestation.
- Versatility -; Due to its construction fiberglass windows can be made in any shape or style imaginable. They can even be manufactured to look like premium wood windows, without any of the drawbacks, of course. They can be painted any color and retain it for many years.
- Strength -; Fiberglass frames allow for smooth opening and closing reducing stress on window hardware. The frames tend to be slimmer affording more window area which maximizes natural light. Fiberglass frames offer a greater resistance to forced entry due to their tensile strength.
- Cost -; The cost of fiberglass windows is the one aspect that may cause some hesitancy in prospective buyers. Even so, they are typically less expensive that wooden windows and as such tend to be a mid-priced option.
Overall, fiberglass windows are considered to be three times stronger than their aluminum counterparts and up to eight times stronger than vinyl windows. In terms of energy-efficiency fiberglass has practically a zero thermal expansion rating, equaling that of the glass itself, which means it creates a tighter seal. This allows for a window that does not require the use of a thermal break or metal stiffeners.
