Eventually, you will need to get replacement windows in your Redmond, WA home, and you will have to choose the right material. More often the decision comes down to wood and fiberglass and homeowners really struggle to decide between the two. Here is a head-to-head comparison of these two materials on the characteristics that matter most:
Energy Efficiency
When you replace old, leaky windows with wood or fiberglass windows, you can save big on your energy costs year round. Both materials are natural insulators. They don’t easily transfer heat and will help keep your home comfortable during summer and winter. That said, there are some differences. Wood tends to expand and contract more with changes in temperature and moisture. This can cause premature seal failure. Fiberglass doesn’t have the same properties. It has a low thermal expansion which minimizes warping, leaks, and seal failure.
Aesthetics
Style is important to many homeowners. If you want windows that have a more traditional, organic feel, wood windows seem like the most natural choice. They are traditional, historic, and a classic. These windows are hands down some of the most show-stopping on the market. That said, fiberglass windows have come leaps and bounds in the last couple of decades. Now fiberglass windows can look and feel like real wood. And as an added bonus, you can even sand and refinish fiberglass windows, painting the frames any color you want to match the aesthetics of your home.
Low Maintenance
This is where wood and fiberglass windows in Redmond, WA really diverge. Wood windows require more upkeep. You will have to routinely sand and refinish the frames every few years to keep them intact and looking like new. Otherwise, you can expect these windows to fade, chip, rot, and even warp over the years. And the high humidity and moisture in the area won’t do you any favors either. With fiberglass, you don’t have to worry about any of that. The frames can stand up against heat, cold, humidity, and moisture with very little maintenance. You can choose a finish that resists corrosion, rot, pests, and even degradation from pollution.
Eco-Friendly
Wood windows come from a natural, renewable resource. That isn’t terrible, but if you want the most environmentally friendly window material, fiberglass is a clear choice. They are made from 80% sand and are 100% recyclable. So if the environment is a major concern, fiberglass windows are certainly worth a second look.
Do I Want Wood or Fiberglass Windows?
Both window materials give you great energy efficiency and style, but when you ask the experts of Signature Window and Door Replacement, one material will always edge out ahead of the others—fiberglass windows. Despite the higher up-front cost, these windows end up saving you money in the long run for your Redmond, WA home. They are easier to maintain, last longer, and provide optimal energy savings. Call 253-887-7792 to set up a consultation for replacement windows in Redmond, WA. Or you can visit 22613 68th Ave S, Kent, WA 98032 to check out some products first hand.
