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Home : Recommendations : Fiberglass vs Wood
Fiberglass vs Wood Windows
Fiberglass vs wood windows is an interesting comparison because there can actually be some significant overlap if the wood clad uses a fiberglass exterior cladding. Fiberglass is a fine option, depending on the model and brand you choose, while wood is the Rolls Royce of replacement windows, a privilege that comes at a pretty steep price. Try our window calculator below to run some price tests of what each of these materials will run you - hint - neither one is particularly inexpensive.
Click to check out our consumer questions and answers below our overall analysis.
Dane - Site Editor - Page Last Updated: April 15, 2024
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Strength
A well made fiberglass window is probably stronger than a wood clad window, but the difference is negligible. Typically, wood clad windows use either a fiberglass, aluminum or vinyl on the exterior for added strength and to protect from the outside elements. For most residential project, the strength question is not all that important, unless you are talking about a really wide opening.
Style
Well made wood clad windows beat all other materials in terms of style and looks and it's no different when you compare it to fiberglass. The Marvin Infinity is generally regarded as one of the nicest looking fiberglass windows on the market, but it is no match for a high end Pella, Andersen or Loewen wood clad window.
Energy Efficiency
Fiberglass windows will usually be more energy efficient than a wood clad due to the materials themselves, and the fact that fiberglass frames can use fills and should have better corner welds. The energy efficiency comparison is actually probably quite close in the showrooms, but over time the fiberglass will lose much less energy efficiency that the wood clad. Incidentally, wood-clad windows tend to be the least energy efficient material besides aluminum.
Cost & Value
Wood clad are the most visually appealing, but they are also the most expensive of all replacement window options. An Andersen 400 Series Tilt Turn with grids, a nice glass package and professional installation will probably run you $900 to $1000 per opening. A Marvin Integrity with all the same feature and professinal installation may run you $600 to $700 per opening. If you are talking 20 replacements, this is a cost difference of $6,000, which is considerable. The one nice thing about the Integrity is that it is available in either a full fiberglass frame or with a real wood interior -- the best of both worlds!
Fiberglass vs Wood Windows :: Q And A
Check out our consumer questions and answers below on which material is the better choice for homes. There is no definite answer here, although I will say, I often push consumers away from wood based on my guiding principle of maximizing long term investment of the money you put into your home. Call me crazy :)
Dane - Site Editor
What's Your Opinion???
Hi, I tried using your replacement cost calculator but its not working. Can you help me get an estimated cost for fiberglass or wood windows?
I have an old house 100+ years. Want to keep the aesthetic of the home. I think around 13 windows.
Josh - Homeowner - from 2024
[Site Editor's Answer]
Josh, I've never had anyone tell me that the calculator didn't work - can you send me a link of the page so I can check it out?
Bids and prices are soooooo all over the board. I'm happy to throw out a number $1500 for what fiberglass windows cost and $2000 for what wood windows cost -- installed prices. But it's similar to saying what's a car going to cost me :)
Best way to really know is to go out and get actual window bids. Most of these are vinyl windows, which tend to offer the best long term value for 80% of consumers. My advice (take it or leave it, obviously) is to get a really high end vinyl window with a wood laminate interior. The laminates look very close to wood once a stain or varnish goes on the real wood.
Here is my list of good and great windows for you to take a look at...
Dane - Site Editor - from 2024
Fiberglass vs Wood Windows
Thanks Dane. We probably will stick to the Marvin fiberglass option. What are you thoughts on going high end? For example, something like Andersen E Series (Aluminum Clad Wood). Is that worth the money? We definitely dont want vinyl for aesthetics and longevity. (Marvin Windows Reviews)
Dotty - Homeowner - from 2023
[Site Editor's Answer]
I personally do not think that going with the wood clad is the best long term option. Wood is prone to rotting and/or improperly functioning over time as it is exposed to the elements and climate change. Stick with a high quality fiberglass window - Marvin, Inline, Milgard - and I think you are better served.
However...if you love the look of wood and are willing to stain and protect the windows every handful of years, then you can really make them last - but there is some work involved in that. That's my honest opinion :)
Dane - Site Editor - from 2023
Related Topics: Window Replacement Prices
Vinyl vs Fiberglass Windows