As THE replacement window company for the greater Minneapolis area, we often get asked about what the best type of window is. Now, some companies might answer right off the bat, and it’s usually the type of window they install most often. Our response is a little different, because the best type of window is the one that’s right for you and your home. There is no perfect window for every situation or every homeowner. That’s why we offer a wide variety of styles, types, and manufacturers. Our goal is to come up with the best replacement window situation for each particular client.
Let’s start with the similarities of these window frames. Both are great choices for our climate, and both require very little in the way of upkeep. Maintenance-free building materials are at the top of the list for most home buyers, and you can avoid both the time and expense of regular re-painting or re-staining window frames like you’d need to do if you had wood windows. And despite what some companies may tell you about vinyl window frames and cold climates, the vinyl windows we install perform very well in both our hot and cold weather.
Is one type of frame more energy efficient than the other? While they are close, fiberglass window frames tend to be slightly more energy efficient – up to 15%. But there are a number of other factors that contribute to the overall energy efficiency of a window.
What about the cost? Generally speaking, fiberglass windows are more expensive than comparable vinyl windows. A basic, standard fiberglass window may cost around $625, while a comparable vinyl window may run you $550. Prices do fluctuate, but both windows are less costly than wood windows.
Which window frame is more durable? While both window frames can be expected to outlast wood windows, fiberglass windows tend to last longer, although in terms of durability, vinyl and fiberglass come pretty close. Some studies indicate fiberglass windows can last 50 years or more, but good quality vinyl windows have an expected life of 40 years or so.
Do we recommend one type over the other? The type of window we recommend for a homeowner depends on a number of factors, including budget. But our general practice is to offer several replacement window plans and then work with the homeowner to select just the windows that will be best for them. If you’ve got more questions about vinyl and fiberglass windows, we’d love to meet with you, either in your home our our window and door showroom in Savage. Why not schedule a free consultation today?
Window Outfitters is a premier Window Replacement, doors, siding contractor and installer. As Contractor in the St Paul, Minneapolis, (Twin Cities) Minnesota (MN) metro, we proudly serve, but are not limited to, the following areas: Minneapolis Energy Efficient Vinyl Windows, Replacement Window Contractors Minnesota, Burnsville, Apple Valley, Lakeville, Savage, Bloomington, Edina, Richfield, Eagan, St Paul, Hastings, Minnetonka, Plymouth, Maple Grove, Eden Prairie, Farmington MN, Chaska, Shakopee, Chanhassen, Victoria, Mendota Heights Anderson Windows Minneapolis, Marvin Windows Minneapolis.
