Aluminum and steel excel at durability, while wood windows take the lead in terms of aesthetics, although they require the most maintenance. The most budget-friendly frame materials are vinyl and aluminum, although they have disadvantages that can lead to costly repairs or high energy bills.
While it can vary among different manufacturers, most window installers agree fiberglass is the most durable, longest lasting window that can be used in homes. Fiberglass windows won't rust, warp, corrode or rot. Plus they're resistant to harsh weather and are immune to insect damage.
Vinyl window material is often considered to be the gold standard for frames by balancing price, quality, customization options, and maintenance needs. Economical, highly energy-efficient vinyl windows are fire-resistant and low maintenance, and there's no need to paint or stain them if you don't want to.
uPVC, also known as un-plasticised Polyvinyl Chloride (uPVC) is a popular material for windows. Cost is a big factor in its popularity: uPVC is a cheaper material compared to aluminium and timber, and requires really little maintenance.
A window's lifespan varies depending on the frame material: vinyl (20 years), wood (over 20 years with proper maintenance), aluminum (30 years), and fiberglass (30-40 years). Magic's Hybrid Fusion Frame windows last 40+ years.
Renewal by Andersen windows are engineered to last. With proper maintenance, you can expect them to perform beautifully for 20 to 40 years or MORE. The long lifespan of Renewal by Andersen windows is a result of the high-quality materials used and the meticulous craftsmanship applied to every product.
Home windows have a lifespan of 15-20 years. Once they reach this age, the seals start to weaken or fail, which leaves you open to drafts and water seepage. In addition, single-pane windows were the standard 15+ years ago. These windows lack insulation and are not as energy efficient as modern double-pane windows.
Fiberglass windows are the most durable windows on the market and because the material is synthetic and strong they are much less likely to warp or crack, and generally don't erode from climate, moisture, or heat.
#1 Renewal by Andersen. Renewal by Andersen is one of the best window brands and has the trust of countless homeowners. It is known for its high-quality windows, which are made from a special material called Fibrex. This composite material is very strong and lasts a long time.
Generally, the least expensive window type is vinyl single-hung or sliding windows. The average cost of window replacement ranges between $1,500 and $2,000.
When it comes to window style, fixed windows or picture windows are the most energy efficient because the sashes are non-operable and therefore are fully sealed to the window frame.
Three Types of Window Materials to Choose From
There's much to consider when selecting new or replacement windows for your home. Pella offers three choices of window frame materials including vinyl, wood and fiberglass.
Renewal by Andersen® windows are made from Fibrex® material, an Andersen-exclusive composite that combines the strength and stability of wood with the low-maintenance features of vinyl.
Disadvantages of vinyl windows:
Vinyl window frames can soften, warp, twist and bow if heat builds up within the frame. They are not particularly strong or rigid. They have the tendency to discolor over time, especially when subjected to extreme weather conditions. They are difficult to paint.
Windows 95, 76 months: August 24, 1995 to December 31, 2001. Windows 98, 98 months: May 15, 1998 to July 11, 2006. Windows 2000, 127 months: December 15, 1999 to July 13, 2010. Windows XP, 149 months: October 25, 2001 to April 8, 2014.
It depends on the severity of the draft, the age of your windows, and whether you've been maintaining them. If your Pella windows are more than 20 years old, it's time to start thinking about replacing them.
Our research shows that window replacement costs an average of $554 per window, depending on the window style, frame material, and brand you choose. However, replacement window costs can range between $100 and $2,500 per window.
Renewal by Andersen is the full-service window replacement division of Andersen, offering Signature Service from start-to-finish. A representative will come to your home, learn about your project needs, measure your windows or patio doors and then order and install your new, custom-made windows.
Fiberglass windows and composite windows are newer options in the market. Made from materials similar to those used in car bumpers, these windows are strong, low-maintenance, and more energy-efficient than vinyl. They're priced in between vinyl and wood options, making them an affordable middle-ground choice.
Vinyl window frames reign supreme when it comes to quality, affordability, and cost-effectiveness, making them one of the most popular options among budget-savvy homeowners. Made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), they offer great insulation and are moisture-resistant, which means they're ideal for humid environments.
To understand whether a window is good, we must also check its transmittance value, i.e. the amount of heat that the frame allows to disperse into the environment. The lower the transmittance value, the better quality of the window will be because it is able to maintain excellent thermal insulation.
The lifespan of Andersen windows depends on the material used. Wood windows from Andersen can last for 30 or more years, while fiberglass windows have a lifespan of 50+ years. Vinyl windows typically last between 20 and 40 years, and windows made from composite material can last 40 or more years.
Full-frame window replacement can cost anywhere from $180–$1,500 per window depending on the window's size, type, and frame material.
Steel windows are a great option for homeowners looking for a durable, long-lasting window. Steel windows can last up to 50 years when properly maintained, making them a cost-effective choice in the long run. If you're considering replacing your windows this year, consider steel as an option!