We're finally biting the bullet and replacing the windows in our beach house—it's been a long time coming, trust me. Anyway, I've narrowed it down to vinyl or fiberglass, but I'm kinda stuck deciding between the two. I've heard vinyl is cheaper and pretty low-maintenance, but some folks say it can warp or fade quicker in salty coastal air. Fiberglass seems sturdier and better at handling harsh weather, but it's pricier and I'm not sure if it's worth the extra cash.
Anyone here have experience with either type in a coastal setting? Like, does vinyl really deteriorate that fast near the ocean, or is that just exaggerated? And is fiberglass actually worth the investment long-term? Would love to hear some real-world experiences before I pull out my wallet...
Vinyl's not as flimsy as some folks make it sound, but yeah, salty coastal air can be pretty tough on it over time. I've seen vinyl windows hold up decently for 10-15 years near the ocean, but they do tend to fade and get brittle faster than inland. Fiberglass is definitely sturdier and handles harsh conditions better—less warping and fading overall. If you're planning to keep the place long-term, fiberglass might save you headaches down the road...but if budget's tight, vinyl isn't a terrible choice either.
"Fiberglass is definitely sturdier and handles harsh conditions better—less warping and fading overall."
True, fiberglass does have the edge durability-wise, especially near the coast. But honestly, I've installed vinyl windows in beach houses that've lasted surprisingly well with proper maintenance—regular cleaning and occasional silicone spray can really stretch their lifespan. Curious though, has anyone here tried aluminum-clad wood windows in coastal areas? I've heard mixed reviews about corrosion resistance, but some swear by them...