Two of the most popular replacement window choices on the market today are vinyl and Andersen® Fibrex®. Choosing the right replacement window frames can be overwhelming. However, if you take the time to do your research, your next replacement windows just might be one of the best investments you ever make.
Windows may be a costly investment, but if you choose carefully, they can last for decades to come. There are several factors involved in window choice, and Fibrex® beats vinyl in many of these areas. Because it is a composite replacement window, Fibrex® isn’t just the stronger, better quality option — it’s also the more eco-friendly option. Let’s take a closer look and compare these two window frame materials.
What Are Fibrex® Windows?
Fibrex® is a unique material that combines wood fibers and thermoplastic polymer to create composite wood.
Although there are a few different composite options on the market, this version is the most sought-after alternative to vinyl windows due to its strength and durability. The fiber tech polymers hold up well in all climates and are resistant to decay, cracking and warping that may occur in vinyl windows.
Fibrex® windows are:
- Sustainable: Fibrex® is made from a composite of reclaimed wood fiber and thermoplastic polymer, making it a more sustainable option than windows made entirely from new materials.
- Great for different climates: Fibrex® expands and contracts very little, even with extreme temperature changes, reducing the risk of cracking, warping or other damage.
- Energy-efficient: The composite material, combined with energy-efficient glass, provides excellent insulation, helping to keep homes warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
- Durable: Fibrex® combines the strength of wood fibers with the stability of a polymer, making it a robust and durable material. Fibrex® is also highly resistant to water damage, rot and fungal growth.
What Is Fibrex® Material Made Of?
Fibrex® consists of 40% wood fibers. The remaining 60% is made from thermoplastic polymer. These materials are then fused together, resulting in products that are twice the strength of vinyl. Here’s a closer look:
- Thermoplastic polymer: Some of the thermoplastic polymer is reclaimed, making up 60% of the material used in these windows.
- Wood fibers: The remaining 40% of the material used is made up of wood fibers, mostly reclaimed from manufacturing processes.
- Finishing material: Consumers can opt to purchase these windows in a wood or paint finish.
How Well Does Fibrex® Material Age?
Fibrex® windows will not disappoint. This strong, durable option lasts at least 35 years, even in the most extreme climates. The thermoplastic polymer coating protects the wood fibers against moisture, preventing mold, rot and decay.
What Makes Fibrex® Material Sustainable?
Part of their composition is reclaimed materials from manufacturing processes. These windows are also at least twice as strong as vinyl. You will never encounter peeling or cracking as you may with vinyl, particularly as it ages. Choose Fibrex®, and you won’t need to worry about replacing your windows for decades to come.
Pros and Cons of Fibrex® Windows
Composite Fibrex® windows are superior to vinyl in many areas, including durability, energy efficiency and environmental impact. One disadvantage is that they come with a higher price tag, but you’ll save time and money in the long run because Fibrex® has almost double the lifespan of vinyl.
What Are the Advantages of Fibrex® Composite Windows?
There are many benefits to choosing Fibrex® for replacing your windows:
- Environmental: Fibrex® windows are made from recycled materials.
- Energy efficiency: Composite frames are energy-efficient. They provide protection against thermal transfers at a much higher rate than vinyl.
- Durability: Composite windows stand up well in extremely hot, cold, dry or humid climates. They expand and contract very little and are resistant to decay.
What Are the Disadvantages of Fibrex® Windows?
It’s also important to consider the disadvantages. Fibrex® doesn’t have many, but cost and installation should certainly be considered:
- Cost: This material is more expensive than other options for the window itself and installation.
- Distribution: Because this composite wood frame is exclusive to Andersen®, you can expect unmatched quality. However, you may need to wait a little longer for installation than you would for a more standard material like vinyl.
- Installation: Installation costs run higher than vinyl, particularly for larger windows, such as Renewal by Andersen® double-hung window options.
What Are Vinyl Windows?
Vinyl windows are a popular and widely used choice for homeowners due to their affordability and relatively low maintenance. Made primarily from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a type of plastic, vinyl frames are mass-produced and come in a vast array of styles, colors and sizes. Their construction involves extruding PVC into hollow chambers, which provides structural integrity and contributes to their insulating properties. These chambers trap air, creating a barrier against heat transfer.
Vinyl windows rose to prominence as an alternative to traditional wood windows, offering a rot-resistant and less expensive option that doesn’t require painting or staining. While they offer a compelling upfront cost advantage, their long-term performance can vary significantly depending on the quality of the materials and manufacturing process. They are a common sight in both new constructions and renovation projects across various climates, though their performance can be impacted by extreme temperature fluctuations.
Key Features of Vinyl Windows
Some characteristics of vinyl windows include:
- Affordability: Vinyl windows are generally one of the most cost-effective options for window replacement, making them attractive for homeowners on a budget.
- Low maintenance: They require very little upkeep, as they do not rot, rust, or need painting or staining.
- Good insulation: Their multichambered construction helps trap air, providing a decent barrier against heat transfer and contributing to energy efficiency.
- Versatile options: Vinyl windows are available in a wide variety of styles, sizes and colors, allowing for customization to match various home aesthetics.
- Decent durability: They offer good resistance to common weather elements, outperforming some other materials like wood in terms of rot and insect resistance.
Pros and Cons of Vinyl Windows
How do vinyl windows compare? Cost is certainly a primary factor. While they may seem more affordable upfront, that may not be true in the long run. Vinyl window frames are strong, but they don’t withstand extreme weather very well, and they are prone to warping and decaying. Though they may not be as durable as Fibrex®, they do hold up better than other materials against the elements, such as wood.
What Are the Advantages of Vinyl Windows?
Vinyl windows have been a popular option for many years. Here’s what makes homeowners so interested in vinyl:
- Cost: Vinyl is a more affordable option in terms of material and installation. Its average lifespan of 20 years is also longer than that of other materials.
- Durability: While vinyl may not be as durable as Fibrex®, it is much more durable against the elements than other window materials, like wood.
- Options: Vinyl windows come in a variety of sizes and finishes, making them simple to match the color of your home.
What Are the Disadvantages of Vinyl?
If cost is the primary consideration for your replacement window frames, vinyl may seem like a no-brainer. However, the lower price tag might not mean it’s the more cost-effective option. Among other factors, its shorter lifespan should be taken into account. If you sit down and do some calculations, you may actually find that the extra cost now will save you substantial amounts of money later. Here are the disadvantages:
- Lifespan: Vinyl windows have a lifespan of 20 years, compared to the 35 years of Fibrex® composite windows.
- Wear and tear: Vinyl windows are prone to wear and tear over time, especially in extreme climates. Humidity, cold and heat can cause the frames to warp, rot or peel.
- Less glass: Vinyl isn’t strong enough to hold the weight of glass. As a result, you’ll find that vinyl window frames are thicker than Fibrex® to ensure they can hold the weight.
Fibrex® vs. Vinyl Windows: Are Composite Windows Better Than Vinyl?
When it comes to vinyl windows vs. Fibrex® windows, which is better? While both window materials have merits, Fibrex® windows are the better option. Vinyl windows are a more affordable option, but they are prone to wear and tear over time and will need to be replaced sooner. Extreme temperatures make it difficult to open the windows because the vinyl expands and may eventually warp or crack.
Let’s compare Fibrex® windows vs. vinyl:
- Strength: While vinyl windows are strong, Fibrex® is twice as strong, no matter how volatile the weather may get. The strength doesn’t deteriorate over time — these windows will last for decades.
- Durability: Fibrex® windows are the more durable option. They’re far less prone to chipping, warping or rotting.
- Decay resistance: Vinyl can get dirty, stained and collect mold. With its unique materials, Fibrex® windows are easy to clean and won’t mold or rot.
- Heat distortion point: In hot climates or direct sunlight, Fibrex® won’t bend or warp. Vinyl may warp when exposed frequently for long durations.
- Thermal expansion: Fibrex® thermal expansion is low, so you can expect it to expand and retract very little. Vinyl has a much higher rate of expansion, making vinyl window frames susceptible to warping and cracking over time.
- Insulating properties: Fibrex® windows provide strong insulation, comparable to high-quality vinyl windows, helping to keep your home comfortable year-round.
- Compressive strength: Fibrex® composite windows have greater compressive strength in vinyl. This is why composite windows have a thinner frame and more glass.
- Green benefits: Fibrex® is made partly from reclaimed materials, making it an environmentally friendly option.
Why Choose Fibrex® Windows From Asher Lasting Exteriors?
When considering a significant home investment like replacement windows, partnering with a trusted local expert makes all the difference. At Asher Lasting Exteriors, we’re dedicated to providing homeowners in Onalaska, Eau Claire and surrounding Wisconsin communities with superior Renewal by Andersen® windows. Choosing Fibrex® windows through us is beneficial in the following ways:
- Certified installation: Our installers are meticulously trained and certified, ensuring that your Fibrex® windows are installed with precision to maximize their energy efficiency and longevity.
- Unmatched customer service: We are committed to customer satisfaction, providing transparent communication, detailed consultations and free estimates without any pressure.
- Long-term support: Our local presence ensures we are always available to provide prompt service and ongoing support for your windows long after the initial installation. You can count on us now and 20 years in the future.
Replace Your Old Windows With Fibrex® Today
It’s clear that Fibrex® is one of the best, most advanced window technologies on the market. These durable windows hold up well against the most extreme conditions, are energy-efficient and require little maintenance over the years. While they may seem pricey up front, they last so long that they’re a money-saver in the end. Choose Fibrex®, and you’ll enjoy your windows for decades to come.
Replacement windows are a significant investment that shouldn’t be taken lightly. Whether you’re replacing a few windows or need new windows for your entire house, Asher Lasting Exteriors has high-quality products from the most trusted brands on the market. We proudly serve Eau Claire, Chippewa Falls, Menomonie and more areas in Wisconsin. Fibrex® windows are reliable, long-lasting and fully customizable with your choice of interior-exterior color combinations, hardware finishes and grille patterns.
Contact us today or call 715-832-7282 to learn more about our window services or request a free estimate.
