Fiberglass vs Aluminum Windows

What are the differences between fiberglass vs aluminum windows?

1. Materials
2. Energy efficiency
3. Lifespan
4. Aesthetics
5. Ease of installation

Aluminum windows have been a popular choice for home frames for decades, and remain the go-to choice for many today given their many user-friendly improvements. Fiberglass windows on the other hand are relatively new to the market, and since their debut has undergone many advancements to improve their efficacy and durability. When choosing your windows, you may feel unsure with what, exactly, are the pros and cons of the two. In this post we explain the differences between fiberglass vs aluminum windows to help you make this important decision for your home.

Materials

Fiberglass panels are created by incorporating polyester resins into glass mats. The result is a strong yet lightweight material. They were initially made to overcome the shortcomings of vinyl windows, which used to be another popular window choice. Fiberglass windows were also designed to look identical to wood material, which is something that some homeowners prefer for their homes over a metallic look.

Aluminum windows are made from processed bauxite ores. Using the aluminum profiles derived from the raw metal, manufacturers extrude aluminum into frames and use double-glazed glass panels to complete the window. Aluminum’s main advantage is that it is a very light and sturdy metal. This allows for larger window frames to be made without needing to worry about the weight.

Energy efficiency

Fiberglass windows are excellent energy savers. They can protect a home against both heat and cold, and also prevent cooled air from escaping. When it comes to which kind of window is better at being energy efficient, fiberglass windows are the better choice overall.

However, that doesn’t mean that aluminum windows aren’t energy efficient — in tropical climates, they can reflect most of the light and heat that hit your home. The main issue here is that they can also absorb this heat, which is what causes the energy inefficiency.

Nowadays, there are many extra perks that you can add to your aluminum windows to avoid this problem. Features such as insulated glass, insulating coats, warm edge spacers are common for most aluminum window options in the market. Advanced technology, techniques and designs allow you to enjoy the benefits of aluminum windows without sacrificing energy efficiency.

Lifespan

Fiberglass windows are durable, in fact, it’s one of their main selling points. They boast of being long-lived even when exposed to frequent snows, rains, and strong winds. They can also resist high temperatures without becoming brittle or soft. Thermoset versions of this window are exceptionally stable, meaning that they don’t experience warping or creep over time. This stability and strength allow it to withstand more extreme weather conditions.

Additionally, these windows are resistant to decay, most forms of corrosion, and pests. However, they are more susceptible to chlorides than aluminum windows are. This means that homes in saltier environments, such as tropical and coastal areas, will need to frequently repair and maintain their fiberglass windows to preserve their structural integrity.

Aluminum windows are also highly durable, and this is especially true when it comes to powder-coated and anodized frames. Furthermore, aluminum comes with a protection system. When this metal meets air, it naturally forms a layer of aluminum oxide, which protects its surface. This oxide layer is extremely resistant to corrosion, especially from chlorides and acids. This layer also cannot be damaged by cleaning products.

When properly manufactured and maintained, these windows could last for decades. Additionally, since it is a fairly malleable metal, it resists swelling, cracking, and warping over the years regardless of weather conditions. This metal is also hard to break through, meaning that pests like termites and ants will not be able to damage it.

Aesthetics

Fiberglass windows are not typically chosen for their aesthetics, and typically come in limited designs and colors. However, they do come in a design that mimics wood grain, which is something that some homeowners may be interested in.

On the other hand, aluminum windows come in a wide variety of colors and designs. Plain aluminum frames already have a distinctive look that many homeowners find appealing. Aluminum can also be anodized, which can change the color and texture of the frame while also providing an extra layer of protection. Lastly, aluminum takes to paint and powder-coating well, meaning that it can be colored to any hue you desire.

Ease of installation

For DIY homemakers, working with fiberglass may be a challenge. It may even be difficult for you to source them, as they need to be specially made by fabricators and cannot be found in hardware stores. Additionally, these windows have to be installed to exact tolerances and measurements. When it comes to this option, you will have to hire a professional with the experience and equipment to reliably install your new windows.

Unlike fiberglass windows, aluminum ones are much easier to install. Professional builders can install all your new windows with ease in just a matter of hours. Most homeowners can also do so by themselves with some basic power tools, patience, and mechanical know-how. Furthermore, these windows can be obtained easily, or manufactured quickly by experienced fabricators like AMC Aluminum.

Key Takeaway

When it comes to fiberglass vs aluminum windows, it’s easy to see that aluminum windows come out on top. In terms of durability, aesthetics, and ease of installation, aluminum windows are hard to beat.

While energy efficiency can be an issue, this can easily be solved by choosing the right aluminum products, such as AMC Aluminum’s! We have a wide selection of aluminum windows and powder coatings to make our products highly energy efficient as well as aesthetically pleasing. Click here to check them out!