If you're in the process of selecting new windows for your home, chances are, you're torn between two popular options — fiberglass and vinyl.

While each material has its benefits, when it comes to durability, beauty, and longevity — fiberglass has a clear advantage over vinyl. However, don't just take our word for it. See how the features of standard vinyl and Infinity from Marvin® fiberglass windows stack up against each other so that you can choose the best window material for your needs and budget.

Why Are Fiberglass Windows Superior to Vinyl?

Material

Vinyl windows are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a material used to make plastic products like shower curtains and grocery bags. Since vinyl is a thermoplastic material, it can eventually bend, warp, deform or break.

Infinity from Marvin fiberglass windows are made from Ultrex® — a material eight times stronger than vinyl. Ultrex is made when glass cables are coated with compounded resins, pulled through a heated dye, covered with acrylic coating, and cut with a diamond-edged blade.

Size

Since fiberglass is such a strong, sturdy material, these windows require less "substance" in their frames for unmatched durability, resulting in thinner, slimmer frames. When you install fiberglass windows, you'll enjoy expansive views from narrow window frames, as opposed to an obstructed view from bulky frames like you'd get with vinyl windows.

Durability

When investing in replacement windows, you want to select a material that can withstand whatever extreme weather conditions are thrown your way. Unfortunately, vinyl windows can't offer you this peace of mind. Vinyl can warp in extreme heat and can become brittle in the cold, leaving your windows with cracks, crevices, and vulnerabilities.

If you're looking for a durable window material that can stand up to the weather — look no further than Ultrex fiberglass. Infinity from Marvin fiberglass windows can endure freezing temperatures and summer heat. You can rest assured knowing the thermometer is unlikely to reach a temperature your windows can't handle!

Energy Efficiency

Vinyl has a high thermal expansion rate, so it expands and contracts more rapidly than glass. Because of this, vinyl windows are more likely to develop seal failure, air leaks, fogging, condensation, and drafts in extreme temperatures. These gaps, along with vulnerabilities caused by warping, can lead to sky-high utility bills and an overworked heater or A/C.

In contrast, fiberglass windows have a low thermal expansion rate, meaning that fiberglass expands and contracts at nearly the same rate as the glass in your window unit. In fact, Ultrex fiberglass expands 87% less than vinyl. Because of this, fiberglass windows aren't likely to develop drafts or air leaks, keeping your windows (and home!) well-insulated during every season.

Environmental Friendliness

Fiberglass is an easy choice if you're concerned about selecting a window material that's good for the environment. The primary ingredient in fiberglass is glass, made from sand — a natural, abundant resource. On the other hand, the primary ingredient in vinyl is PVC — a synthetic plastic made from chemicals. Not only is vinyl not naturally occurring, but it also releases toxic chemicals into the environment when it's produced.

Not to mention, fiberglass products last much longer than vinyl and are recyclable at the end of their lifespan. When you choose fiberglass windows, you're cutting down on waste and, therefore, reducing your carbon footprint.

Appearance

Vinyl windows may come in several colors, styles, and designs, but "cheap-looking" plastic frames can never mimic the timeless style and authenticity of fiberglass windows.

Infinity from Marvin windows come in several exterior finishes, like Stone White, Bronze, and Ebony (or black), so you can find the perfect match for your home's style. Ultrex windows also come with a fade-resistant acrylic finish that resists chipping, denting, and peeling, making your windows virtually maintenance-free. And for your home's interior finish, you can select EverWood®, an engineered woodgrain finish by Infinity from Marvin that looks, feels, paints, and stains just like natural wood but performs like tough, durable fiberglass.

Install Infinity from Marvin Fiberglass Windows by North Georgia Replacement Windows

So, what do you think — is fiberglass better than vinyl? Hopefully, after reading this analysis, you can agree with us that the answer is yes!

If you'd like to install Infinity from Marvin fiberglass windows on your home, look no further than our team at North Georgia Replacement Windows. We are the exclusive contractor of Infinity from Marvin products across the entire state of Georgia. Plus, we strive to maintain the highest level of certification with the state and manufacturer to provide you with top-quality window installation and long-lasting results.

If you're ready to enhance your home with the durability, beauty, and energy efficiency of Infinity from Marvin fiberglass windows, reach out to our team for options, ideas, and prices today!