Vinyl vs. Aluminum vs. Fiberglass: What Window to Choose

What are the Best Window Options?

The best window option varies from person to person, including when choosing vinyl vs. aluminum vs. fiberglass, and more. Each homeowner may seek a different benefit from one window option over another. Someone may desire an eco-friendly material while another desires a style that can hold large, unique glass designs – the best type of window depends on the eye of the beholder. 

Choosing the best window options for your home is often a strategic process. Determining whether you prefer style versus functionality or a combination can easily overwhelm any new or experienced homeowner. Additionally, you must consider the distinctions of vinyl vs. aluminum vs. fiberglass, including that of cost and more. Luckily, you don’t have to undergo the process alone. As experts in window design and installation, AZ Valley Windows is available to help you choose the best window for your home. Selecting the best window starts with understanding the difference between available window options as well as the factors to consider before settling on a window. 

Types of Window Options

Vinyl

Vinyl windows are standard for most homes. A well-rounded product, they provide Some top benefits, such as mainly staying maintenance-free and requiring limited re-painting. Additionally, vinyl windows are the most inexpensive of the higher-end options compared to a typical aluminum window cost. While it’s easy for the heating or air conditioning bill to fluctuate in the cold or hot seasons, vinyl windows regulate in-home temperatures with energy-efficient conduction. Vinyl is the best choice for homeowners seeking a multi-purpose, affordable, and high-value option. 

Fiberglass

Fiberglass windows offer some of the best energy-efficient solutions for any home. Fiberglass is an artificial product that provides the effect of wood grain material, yet has more durability than vinyl or wood. Fiberglass’s added strength allows you to incorporate unique window styles into larger panes. In fact, fiberglass may be the perfect option if you live in an area that frequently experiences severe weather. Unlike other window types, such as aluminum, which scratches and warps easily, fiberglass windows are mostly damage resistant, making them less likely to rust over time. If you seek an environmentally friendly and durable window option, fiberglass windows are a top choice. 

Aluminum

Aluminum windows are one of the premier window options on the market. However, when you compare a typical aluminum window cost to a typical fiberglass or vinyl window cost, you will often see a drastic price change. On the other hand, a higher costing product usually uses higher quality materials. Aluminum has several key benefits for homeowners to enjoy. For example, aluminum windows in sunny areas like Phoenix provide a modern flare with energy-efficient technology. These windows seal securely to keep out dirt and debris, while simultaneously blocking our excess noise. For the resident who enjoys a quiet, clean, contemporary home, consider investing in aluminum windows. 

Deciding Factors

All window types have their unique strengths and weaknesses. Before finalizing your decision, consider the following factors to help you choose the right window for your home. 

Cost

Your financial budget usually has the final say on which windows you select. Typically, the average range for a vinyl, aluminum, or fiberglass window cost starts with vinyl on the low end and increases as you consider fiberglass and then aluminum options. 

When searching for wood framing options, vinyl and fiberglass are reasonable alternatives, since wood is in high demand, yet has a low supply due to current manufacturing shortages. Of the three options, vinyl is the most affordable choice; vinyl windows have a 66% market share concerning residential installations. However, if you are willing to pay more, fiberglass has about 12-15% higher fees than vinyl, and aluminum costs as much as 40% more than vinyl. For context, vinyl windows are about 10 to 30% cheaper – including for purchase and installation – and a single vinyl window cost ranges from $500 to $800, compared to $600 to $1,000 for fiberglass windows.

Maintenance

Both vinyl and fiberglass windows are low maintenance. With these window types, you can easily hose off any moss, dirt, mildew, or mold and then scrub with soap and water. Aluminum, on the other hand, is a tougher material to maintain. When damage occurs – such as scratching, denting, or chipping – aluminum finishes tend to expose the raw material. When considering the high aluminum window cost, take your time to think over the cost-to-maintenance ratio before making a final decision. Better yet, contact your supplier or designer to see if they offer any warranties or advice on material durability. 

Appearance

Imagine walking by your home up the front driveway while staring at a window you despise. Now imagine the opposite scenario – walking up the nicely landscaped pathway that leads to a series of windows that complement your home’s aesthetic. Which scenario would you prefer? 

When determining aluminum versus vinyl versus fiberglass window costs, the appearance of your desired windows usually becomes the determining factor. While you want a window that remains durable throughout many seasons, you ultimately want to purchase an aesthetically pleasing one. In that case, all three types of windows provide different appearances, and each adds varying levels of value to your home. 

In addition to the vinyl window cost remaining significantly lower than fiberglass or aluminum, vinyl windows offer a more traditional style. Both aluminum and vinyl windows are readily available in single, double, or multi-pane forms and almost any color or finish you prefer. That said, vinyl frames are thicker than the other options, whereas fiberglass’s thin frames provide more space for glass and lighting to shine through.

Both vinyl and fiberglass frames resemble wood grain textures – smooth, textured, or faux wood finishes. Many homeowners enjoy these styles more since they imitate classic wood finishes but require less upkeep. If you want a more modern style, aluminum frames provide sleeker finishes that best suit contemporary homes. In this case, the aluminum window cost and desire for updated features may outweigh the cheaper cost of vinyl.

Environment Friendly

Some homeowners may design homes with an eco-conscious mindset. In that case, fiberglass windows are the most environmentally friendly option available. Fiberglass windows tend to use upwards of 60% recycled glass in their construction. In fact, manufacturers designed fiberglass to sustain itself for decades, meaning it remains one of the most sustainable and energy-efficient solutions. Contrarily, vinyl windows use PVC plastic, which is difficult to recycle. If you can budget for the slightly higher fiberglass window cost, we recommend going with this option for eco-mindedness. 

Choose Your Window From AZ Valley Windows

Choosing from various window materials, designs, and glass types can overwhelm any homeowner. To avoid overwhelming yourself or purchasing mediocre windows for your house, consider consulting professional contractors. AZ Valley Windows provides professional installation and custom consulting to ensure you remain satisfied with your decision. Whether you’re debating choosing for energy-efficient style or a style with larger intricate glass designs, our services will ensure you’re more than happy with your window choice.