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Fiberglass Windows
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Using fiberglass for a window frame material is, in some cases, preferable to other window frame materials like wood, vinyl, or metal. Wood, the once ubiquitous window framing material, becomes less common as inexpensive alternatives become more common.
Fiberglass is a durable and long lasting window framing material that can be painted. Fiberglass provides the strongest window material – about 3 times stronger than aluminum and about 9 times stronger than vinyl. Fiberglass window frames are produced similarly to vinyl, however where vinyl is extruded (or pushed) through a form to process, fiberglass is pultruded (or pulled) to create the similar form.
Fiberglass frames use less mass in manufacturing, leading to a lower conductivity and thereby higher energy efficiency. The low embodied energy and long life of the windows also contributes to increased efficiency over the life of the window. Fiberglass essentially does not conduct heat or cold, increasing efficiency. Quality fiberglass frames are composed of at least 60% glass, an easily recyclable material. The high glass content makes for a very tough product. It also means the expansion and contraction rates of both the window panes and the frames are similar, increasing the life of the window unit’s seals and materials.
Installation is made easier by the fact that with fiberglass frames, the frames do not twist or warp during installation. This ensures the frames stay square – a common problem during installation with other types. The greatest drawback is likely to be the premium pricing which is around 10-30% above a mid-grade vinyl product. As efficiencies grow in the industry this premium is expected to decrease, making it a more competitive choice. As the competition heats up, the alternatives will become more readily available.
Fiberglass windows are practically maintenance-free. They take paint easily, in a large selection of colors, do not warp, crack, rot, or corrode, and are very strong.
Top-Rated Products
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WOODCLAD™ SERIES FIBERGLASS WINDOWSMilgard WoodClad™ fiberglass windows satisfy both the architectural purist and the realist. Yo |
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ULTRA SERIES FIBERGLASS WINDOWSUltra, as the name implies, is the ultimate window frame material. Ultra fiberglass windows combine |
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Before you buy... Exterior Doors
Exterior doors with magnetic seals offer superior air infiltration protection. Compression seals are also good, but not to the quality of a magnetic seal. A good door will seal tightly, be low maintenance, and keep heat or cool from escaping.
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