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Fiberglass vs. Wood Windows

These are common questions that we often receive, so we are going to address the many ways in which our fiberglass and wood windows are similar and how they are different.

Wood vs. Fiberglass Window Materials

Wood and fiberglass are both insulating materials, making them excellent energy-efficient solutions when replacing the windows in your home or business. Wood is the oldest building materials in the world—and for good reason. Wood has excellent aesthetics, great insulation properties, and extreme versatility. Fiberglass, on the other hand, is relatively new, only coming about in the latter half of the 20th century—although not reaching the mainstream window market until approximately the last decade. Fiberglass, like wood is an insulating material—only better. Unlike wood, fiberglass will not warp, rot, expand, or contract due to changes in temperature or moisture levels.

Edge: Fiberglass

Fiberglass vs. Wood Windows – Energy Efficiency

As we’ve already mentioned, fiberglass and wood are both energy-efficient materials. Both materials have similar insulating values (also known as R-Values). Fiberglass is ultimately the more energy-efficient selection and due to its ability to resist warping and expanding, it is a better long-term choice for energy efficiency.

Edge: Fiberglass

Fiberglass vs. Wood Windows – Aesthetics

We offer several different styles and features for both our fiberglass and wood window options, giving you flexibility in design. Historically, fiberglass windows have never been noted for their aesthetics, but our wood-clad fiberglass windows now give fiberglass windows the same elegance and beauty commonly associated with wood windows. You no longer have to compromise aesthetics for durability!

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Fiberglass vs. Wood Windows – Maintenance

Maintenance is one area where fiberglass windows really stand out in comparison to Fiberglass windows are extremely low-maintenance. In fact, they’re virtually maintenance-free. Fiberglass windows can be cleaned with only soap and water and never require painting or sealing.

Wood windows, on the other hand, require more frequent maintenance to maintain the look and beauty they have when new. To keep your wood windows looking like new, they will need to be scraped, sanded, and re-painted or stained to prevent decay, as the wood is exposed to the elements.

Both wood and fiberglass windows can last for a very long time if properly maintained, but wood windows will require a greater level of maintenance to extend their lifespan.

Edge: Fiberglass

Fiberglass vs. Wood Windows – Value

All-wood windows typically cost more than fiberglass windows with similar energy efficiency and performance. Wood windows today are highly sought after for their aesthetics and classical appeal. Although they cost more than fiberglass windows, their classical elegance and relative scarcity in the marketplace can significantly improve the value of your home to the right buyers.

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So Which is Better, Wood Windows or Fiberglass Windows?

Although they vary in many ways, both wood and fiberglass windows have their own advantages. It is difficult to say that one type is better than the other—they are often purchased to serve different purposes for different people. All our Milgard wood and fiberglass windows are built with the same level of craftsmanship right here in the USA and come with a Full Lifetime Warranty. Whether you choose wood windows or fiberglass windows, we are confident that you will love our windows.