Fiberglass windows are among the newest types of framed materials available on the window market today.
Benefits of Fiberglass Frames
Like vinyl, fiberglass combines the strength and durability of aluminum with the energy efficiency of wood. These properties make fiberglass-framed windows an excellent investment for any home.
There are many benefits to installing these windows in your home. Here are some of their best qualities.
Fiberglass-framed windows provide maximum durability
High energy efficiency
Extreme strength
Maintenance-free materials
Expand and contract very little with temperature changes
Fiberglass is environmentally friendly
Resists deterioration
Does not conduct heat or cold
Fiberglass is impermeable to moisture
Available in a variety of colors
Holds large expanses of glass
Windows made of fiberglass can be painted, unlike vinyl windows
Fiberglass patio doors and windows exceed Canadian (CAN/CSA A-440-1) and American (AAMA 101-93) industry standards.
According to Greenerbuilding, an organization dedicated to promoting the use of sustainable construction materials, fiberglass is about three times more durable than aluminum and nine times tougher than vinyl. In addition, fiberglass is paintable and is more energy efficient than other windows.
Availability Of Windows Made Of Fiberglass
Because fiberglass frames are relatively new to the market, homebuilders may have only a few options to choose from. However, manufacturers are beginning to recognize the benefits and popularity of fiberglass frames. Soon, there will be a wide range of products to choose from.
Fiberglass windows offer advantages over aluminum and vinyl, but also have some drawbacks.
Disadvantages
Cost - One of the biggest drawbacks is cost. Fiberglass costs from 10 to 30 percent more than other windows, like mid-grade vinyl windows. It is expected however, that cost will decrease over time as the market for these products grows and more alternatives become available.
Maintenance - Fiberglass requires more maintenance than vinyl to preserve appearance. Although these windows arrive for installation being factory-painted, the paint often becomes chipped or scratched during transport.
Furthermore, the window's paint frequently becomes damaged during installation and requires touching up. Yet even after the window is installed, it's still susceptible to paint scratches and probably requires regular maintenance to prevent the window from appearing worn.
Leakage - All mechanically fastened windows, including those made of fiberglass, leak in the corners. One cause is a weak frame that cannot be welded like vinyl windows.
There is also a higher percentage of service-related issues with fiberglass than with vinyl windows. However, many window installation companies and builders report few service issues with fiberglass windows and insist the windows satisfy performance standards.
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