When it’s time for new windows, such as replacement casement windows, factors like size, design and style are all important. Another factor you’ll need to consider is the material. After all, a homeowner such as yourself has a wide range of options to choose from.
When replacing windows, there are two popular materials that homeowners gravitate toward — vinyl and Fibrex® material.
Vinyl windows have several benefits, including being attractive, low maintenance and resistant to rot and mildew. However, Renewal by Andersen® windows built with Fibrex® material perform better than vinyl long term. Let’s examine vinyl versus Fibrex® material, based on insulation, durability and environmental impact.
Improved insulation is one of the most important benefits a new window can bring. With enhanced insulation, you can keep your home comfortable regardless of outdoor temperatures while decreasing heating and cooling costs.
Wood is a natural insulator, but it is susceptible to moisture and mold. Vinyl doesn’t get degraded by moisture and mold, but pulls away from the window’s envelope over time. This effect occurs because its thermal expansion rate differs from your home’s brick or wood exterior. Gaps allow air to seep in, reducing efficiency.
Unlike vinyl, Fibrex® material doesn’t succumb to environmental damage, maintaining its insulation properties in any climate.
With Fibrex® material, you can enjoy the same insulation properties of wood without the rot and moisture damage. This product is exclusive to Renewal by Andersen. It is made of composite materials with industry-leading insulation properties. It can lower your energy bills by providing efficient insulation during the hot and cold seasons.
In addition, Renewal by Andersen offers High-Performance™ Low-E4® glass, which retains heat during winter and keeps it out during summer. The Fibrex® material frame and our glass fibers also offer better noise insulation, something vinyl cannot achieve on its own.
Both vinyl and Fibrex® material are durable as they’re usually designed to withstand the effects of wear and tear brought about by temperature changes. However, vinyl frames usually suffer from distortion because of heat exposure. Fibrex® material frames, on the other hand, can tolerate high temperatures, making them far more durable than vinyl.
Fibrex® material comprises wood and vinyl and is manufactured using proprietary techniques. These properties make it up to eight times stronger than vinyl, giving you peace of mind with a robust window replacement investment. Some benefits of its durability include:
Vinyl window frames are usually made of new materials, meaning that, while affordable, they aren’t very environmentally friendly when it comes to their production. Fibrex® material, on the other hand, is partially made of recycled materials, allowing us to reduce the amount of waste that could end up in landfills.
The wood fiber in Fibrex® material is reclaimed, meaning we manufacture just under half of the product using recycled material. When Fibrex® material reaches the end of its lifespan, it can be reground and reused, making it an environmentally friendly option.
Our windows are Green Seal certified and ENERGY STAR® qualified, meeting the stringent standards of the U.S. Department of Energy. Fibrex® material also won’t develop gaps along the window frame, allowing you to save on the energy you use in your home.
