As already mentioned, the longest-lasting window frame material is fiberglass. This is because wood can deteriorate and warp over time and vinyl will eventually corrode, crack, and warp. Fiberglass is as durable as they come, resisting warping, cracking, and rusting.
Fiberglass windows are one of the most durable types of windows. This window material lasts a long time, as they're made to withstand both intense heat and cold.
On average, vinyl windows last between 20-40 years. Their life expectancy depends on the climate and conditions you live in. For instance, if your windows are exposed to harsh sunlight for extended periods of time, the vinyl will break down faster and their lifespan will be closer to 20 years.
Vinyl windows, on the other hand, do not absorb water and are not prone to rotting. These windows, when installed properly, can go for long periods of time without maintenance. So in general, the answer is that vinyl windows will last longer than wood windows.
What is the most energy-efficient window? The most efficient window will have a fiberglass frame — which is the most insulative frame material — triple-pane glass, a Low-E coating and window tinting. Other energy-efficient options include vinyl and composite window frames and double-pane glass.
Casement Windows
These right or left hinged windows have sashes that open outwardly by the turn of a crank. They are a great window choice for hard to reach areas of your home because they open easily. Casement windows provide better ventilation and have a more energy-efficient seal than double-hung windows.
Vinyl windows are energy-efficient windows, according to the International Association of Certified Home Inspectors. Vinyl is a better thermal insulator than either wood or aluminum. It's also recyclable.
Disadvantages of vinyl windows:
They have the tendency to sag due to their flexibility. Their flexibility also limits their size and the weight of the glass they frame. Many people find them less elegant or natural-looking than wood.
Vinyl Windows are Different than Other Options
In extreme weather conditions, the possibility of discoloration exists. Since these windows can't be repainted, the entire window must be replaced. Also, real estate experts say vinyl window replacements don't add as much value to a home as other options.
How Long Do Vinyl Windows Last – Vinyl Windows Average Life Expectancy. Most vinyl windows last between 20 and 40 years on average. Windows installed in an area exposed to the bright sun for most of the day will not last as long.
Renewal by Andersen windows can last for 40 years or longer. Its patented Fibrex material is twice as durable as vinyl, which lasts 20 to 40 years on average. However, extreme climate, weather conditions, and other outdoor influences can drastically shorten your windows' lifespan.
While replacing your home's windows is a costly project, it can pay off by adding value to your home. According to the Remodeling's 2023 Cost vs. Value report, replacing vinyl windows adds an average of $13,766 in value to a home — about 69% of the cost of the project.
Vinyl is energy efficient
While well-insulated wooden frames can achieve the same U-value as vinyl on the day of installation, that number will start, and continue to, fall as it warps and cracks. Older wooden windows can't meet the industry standard for thermal efficiency, let alone improve upon it.
If you're interested in unbreakable glass that truly lives up to its name, polycarbonate panels are the type you want. Polycarbonate panels are significantly more difficult to break than both standard glass windows and laminated glass mentioned above.
Aluminium windows are considered one of the most secure options available on the market. It is one of the most burglar resistant materials available because of its inherently strong properties despite its featherweight appearance. When discussing aluminium's durability, it's much stronger than most people realise.
Fiberglass is the most durable material available, however vinyl and fiberglass both have a longer lifespan than wood because they do not rot or degrade when exposed to moisture or insects.
Pella's extremely durable fiberglass material is the strongest material for windows. Engineered to be long-lasting, Pella's fiberglass windows hold strong against dents, bends and breaks, without holding back on style.
A common problem a lot of homeowners face is the expansion and contraction of their vinyl windows during hot and cold weather. With these changes comes issues in structural integrity, air infiltration, and problems with just opening and closing the window. The warping can also do some damage to the seal.
Cellular PVC windows are solid and stronger than extruded vinyl windows which are thinner and can lead to warping. Choosing between the two is difficult because they both have different attributes.
Windows made with vinyl are strong, long lasting, energy efficient, and beautiful; and because they are easier to manufacture, you're not going to have to pay as much to have great windows that will keep the heat in during those cold winter days and keep the cold in when things get hot and humid outside.
Vinyl windows come in different grades, the most popular being Recycled Vinyl or Pure Virgin Vinyl. Recycled vinyl is made from a variety of recycled vinyl products. While this can reduce the cost of the window, it can also affect the durability and longevity.
With built-in color, vinyl material is resistant to fading and will stay vibrant through the hottest season. Vinyl windows also have many other benefits such as: Durable – Vinyl is weather resistant and very durable compared to other window materials, which can crack and peel.
Moisture: Moisture is the biggest cause of wood and vinyl window warping. Once moisture infiltrates the material, it will remain inside and cause the window to rot and warp. Temperature: Excessive heat and cold cause vinyl and wood to expand and contract.
Energy Efficiency
The glass fibers in fiberglass do not expand and contract under heat and cold, and thus they are a slightly better insulator than vinyl. According to manufacturer Magnetite, fiberglass is rated 15 percent higher in R-value than vinyl-framed windows.