Interesting take on fiberglass, haven't tried it yet myself. Couple quick thoughts:
- Totally agree on dark vinyl frames warping—learned that lesson the hard way (ouch, wallet).
- Fiberglass sounds solid, but how's it handle extreme cold? Any brittleness issues?
- Also curious if anyone's tried aluminum-clad wood frames. Heard they're durable and decent insulators...but worth the extra $$?
Always something new to consider with windows, huh...
"Fiberglass sounds solid, but how's it handle extreme cold? Any brittleness issues?"
I've installed fiberglass windows in a few colder climate projects (think Minnesota winters), and honestly, brittleness hasn't been a noticeable issue. Fiberglass tends to handle temperature swings pretty well because it expands and contracts similarly to glass itself, so you don't get those seal failures or cracking issues you'd see with vinyl frames. That said, nothing's bulletproof—I've seen a couple fiberglass frames develop minor stress cracks over time, but that's usually due to installation errors or settling issues rather than cold alone.
On aluminum-clad wood frames, they're definitely solid performers, but I'm not fully convinced they're worth the premium unless aesthetics are a big priority. Sure, they're durable and insulate better than pure aluminum, but maintenance can still be a pain if moisture sneaks behind the cladding. I've had to replace a few that rotted out from hidden leaks—talk about an expensive headache.
Honestly, if you're looking for durability and insulation without breaking the bank, fiberglass is probably your sweet spot. Just my two cents...
Fiberglass does pretty well in my experience, even up in Alaska. Had a few installed about five years ago, and they've held up solid—no brittleness or cracks yet. Aluminum-clad wood looks great, but yeah, I've seen the moisture issue firsthand too... expensive fix when it happens. I'd stick with fiberglass if you're mostly after durability and decent insulation without fussing over looks too much.
Fiberglass seems solid, but have you noticed any drafts creeping in over time? I'm leaning toward fiberglass myself, but curious if you've had to reseal or caulk around them yet... or is it pretty much set-and-forget?
- Fiberglass is pretty reliable overall, but I've seen a few cases where drafts creep in after several years.
- Usually it's not the window itself, but the sealant around the frame that shrinks or cracks over time.
- Quick caulk touch-up every few years seems to do the trick—nothing major.
- Still, compared to vinyl or wood, fiberglass holds up impressively well in cold climates.
- I'd say you're making a solid choice...just keep an eye on those seals every now and then.
I've had fiberglass windows for about 8 years now, and they've been champs through some pretty brutal winters. I remember one particularly nasty storm a few years back—temps dropped way below zero, wind howling like crazy—and the fiberglass held up like nothing happened. The only issue I've run into matches what's already been mentioned: the sealant around the frames. After about five years, I started noticing those sneaky little drafts creeping in around the edges.
But honestly, it took maybe an hour one weekend afternoon to recaulk everything, and it was good as new. Compared to the wooden windows I had before (which warped so badly that opening and closing them was a wrestling match), fiberglass has been a huge step up. Vinyl can be decent too, but I've seen friends have issues with cracking in extreme cold. Fiberglass seems to handle the temperature swings better overall.
Just my experience though...your mileage may vary depending on brand and installation quality.
"Vinyl can be decent too, but I've seen friends have issues with cracking in extreme cold."
Interesting you mention vinyl cracking—I live in Minnesota, and my vinyl windows have been solid for over a decade. Maybe it's more about the quality of the vinyl or installation rather than the material itself?
I've installed vinyl windows in plenty of homes here in Wisconsin, and honestly, cracking usually happens when they're cheap or poorly fitted. Had a client once who insisted on budget vinyl, and sure enough, first deep freeze, he called me about cracks forming. Meanwhile, higher-quality ones I've put in years ago still look brand new. Curious though—anyone noticed if certain brands hold up better in extreme cold than others?
I've had pretty good luck with Andersen windows here in Minnesota. We get some brutal winters too, and mine have held up nicely—no cracks or drafts yet, knock on wood. But I do wonder if fiberglass frames might be even better for extreme cold? Heard they're pricier but supposedly handle temperature swings without issues. Curious if anyone's tried fiberglass and noticed a real difference compared to vinyl...
I've had vinyl windows for years and recently switched to fiberglass frames in our cabin up near Duluth. Honestly, the difference surprised me. Vinyl was decent, but during those brutal cold snaps, you could feel the frames contracting slightly—nothing major, but noticeable enough to bug me. Fiberglass seems way more stable; no creaking or subtle drafts at all, even when temps hit -20°F. Yeah, they're pricier upfront, but considering durability and comfort, I'd say they're worth the extra investment long-term...especially if you're picky about efficiency like I am.