Composite or fiberglass windows strike the perfect balance of durability, efficiency, and low maintenance, making them a top choice for homeowners who want windows that last. Built with materials that resist warping, rotting, and weather damage, these windows are made to stay strong and keep performing year after year.
With benefits that extend beyond traditional window options, composite and fiberglass windows provide a reliable alternative, offering insulation, strength, and style without the ongoing upkeep of materials like wood.
What Are Composite/Fiberglass Windows?
Composite windows are made from a combination of materials engineered to create a strong, long-lasting window frame. Typically, they blend wood fibers and polymers, like in the Fibrex® material used by Andersen Windows, or they are made of fiberglass, which is highly resistant to wear and temperature changes. This design makes them far more durable than standard wood or vinyl windows, capable of withstanding moisture, changing temperatures, and other factors that can lead to warping or rotting over time. In our expert opinion, Composite windows can be an appealing option for those looking for lasting value and dependability in their window replacement project.
Benefits and Drawbacks of Composite Windows
Benefits and Drawbacks: Like any product, composite and fiberglass windows come with both advantages and a few considerations.
Benefits:
- Durability: This window material is built to last and is able to handle extreme cold and heat without warping, cracking, or deteriorating.
- Low Maintenance: These windows require very little upkeep. Once installed, they stay strong and maintain their look over time without the need for frequent repairs or refinishing.
- Insulation: The insulation provided by fiberglass windows will keep your home at a comfortable temperature all year long.
Drawbacks:
- Higher Initial Cost: These windows cost more upfront than vinyl windows, but their durability and low maintenance can make them more affordable in the long run.
Fiberglass Windows Style and Design Options
Fiberglass windows come in a variety of styles, giving you plenty of options to suit your home’s needs. Whether you’re leaning towards casement, double-hung, sliding, or fixed windows, fiberglass frames have the versatility to work in any space without sacrificing durability.
Their slim frames are great for letting in more natural light and creating a clean, modern look. Plus, you can customize them with grid patterns to add a little extra personality to each window, all while keeping that sturdy, long-lasting quality.
If you’re looking for a window that combines both style and strength, fiberglass is a great choice. With sleek frames and customization options, you benefit from the robust, long-lasting qualities of fiberglass.
Comparison to Other Window Materials
When deciding on new windows, it’s helpful to understand how composite and fiberglass options stack up against other materials like vinyl, wood, and aluminum.
- Composite vs. Vinyl: Vinyl windows are a popular, budget-friendly option, but they don’t quite measure up to composites when it comes to durability. Composite and fiberglass windows are much more resistant to warping, cracking, and temperature changes, making them a better long-term investment. While vinyl can work if you’re looking for something inexpensive, composite windows shine when it comes to long-lasting performance.
- Composite vs. Wood: Wood windows have a timeless, classic appeal, but they come with a lot of maintenance—think painting, sealing, and treating to prevent rot and damage. Composite windows give you that same look but without all the upkeep. They’re just as strong as wood but much easier to take care of, making them a solid choice for those who want the style without the hassle.
- Composite vs. Aluminum: Aluminum windows are strong and have a modern, clean look, but they’re not the best at keeping temperatures in check. They can let in heat during the summer and cold in the winter, which can affect your home’s comfort. Composite and fiberglass windows, however, are much better at insulation, helping to keep your home cozy no matter the season. They also do a better job of keeping energy costs down compared to aluminum.
By choosing composite or fiberglass windows, you’re selecting a material that combines the best qualities of other options—like the durability of wood and the insulation of vinyl—without the downsides.
Top Fiberglass Window Brands
When selecting quality windows, Andersen and Pella are two brands that stand out for their performance and durability.
Andersen’s Fibrex® Material (100 and 400 Series):
- Andersen 100 Series: Made completely of Fibrex® material, the 100 Series offers durability and energy efficiency at a more affordable price. These windows resist rot, decay, and warping and require little maintenance, making them a great choice for those looking for reliable, low-maintenance windows.
- Andersen 400 Series: With an exterior finish with Fibrex® material, the 400 Series offers enhanced durability and a wider range of styles and colors. These windows provide better energy efficiency, noise reduction, and overall performance, making them a premium option for homeowners seeking top-quality windows.
As an Andersen Certified Contractor, we ensure that every installation meets the highest standards of quality and craftsmanship.
Pella’s Impervia® Series
The Pella Impervia® series is crafted from Ultrex® fiberglass, a material that is twice as strong as vinyl and highly resistant to warping, cracking, and fading. These windows are designed to be low-maintenance, requiring no painting or sealing, and they maintain their strength, insulation properties, and appearance over time at an affordable price.
As a Platinum-Certified Contractor, we have the expertise to properly install Pella’s Impervia® series, ensuring they perform as designed for years to come.
Final Thoughts: Why Choose Composite and Fiberglass Windows?
Composite windows are a top choice for Long Island homeowners looking for a long-lasting, low-maintenance solution that doesn’t compromise on performance. Whether you’re upgrading old windows or building new ones, these windows provide the strength you need with peace of mind.
Call Unified For Your Fiberglass/Composite Window Upgrade Today!
Transform your home with windows that deliver unmatched durability and energy efficiency. At Unified Home Remodeling, we’re here to help you choose the best composite and fiberglass windows for your needs and ensure a flawless installation.
Unified has completed over 350,000 projects with a 99.6% customer satisfaction rating, becoming the window installation experts Long Island and New York homeowners wholeheartedly trust. Contact us now to schedule a window installation consultation!