Replacing old, drafty windows with new, energy-efficient models is one of the best ways to increase the comfort and lower the energy costs of your home. Two popular styles of replacement windows are Fibrex by Andersen and vinyl. While there are some similarities between these two window materials, there are also several key differences in performance, aesthetics, and cost. This comprehensive window comparison guide examines the pros and cons of Andersen Fibrex versus vinyl windows to help you select the best option for your home.
What is Fibrex Material?
Fibrex is a proprietary composite material developed and used exclusively by Andersen for its line of replacement windows and patio doors. This innovative Fibrex material combines the strength and stability of wood with the low-maintenance durability of vinyl.
Fibrex is created by taking wood fibers from Andersen’s sustainable forest sources and mixing them with a thermoplastic polymer. The wood fibers, which make up 40% of the Fibrex material, provide strength and rigidity. The vinyl polymer gives Fibrex its weather-resistant properties and dimensional stability.
The resulting Fibrex material is twice as strong as vinyl and 20% stronger than wood composite. Windows made from Fibrex are highly impact-resistant and able to withstand extreme temperature fluctuations, making them an excellent choice for all climates.
The combination of wood and vinyl creates a strong, durable, and luxurious window material that offers natural beauty, excellent insulation, and low-maintenance.
Benefits of Andersen Fibrex Windows
There are many advantages to choosing Andersen Fibrex windows over vinyl windows:
Aesthetics
The wood fibers present in Fibrex give it a natural, gorgeous wood-like appearance that vinyl cannot replicate. Fibrex captures the elegant look and feel of real wood grain. Available in a mix of oak, maple, cherry, and pine exterior colors, Fibrex windows are virtually indistinguishable from their all-wood counterparts.
In comparison, vinyl windows have a decidedly plastic, artificial look. The vinyl extrusion process results in a mono-color plastic profile that lacks an authentic wood visual. For homeowners who value aesthetics, Fibrex offers a more attractive option.
Strength & Durability
With double the tensile strength of vinyl, Fibrex windows are incredibly tough and durable. The bonded wood fibers make Fibrex resistant to warping, sagging, shrinking, and expansion. Fibrex windows will retain their like-new appearance and performance for decades, even under harsh weather conditions.
Vinyl windows are prone to warping and distorting when exposed to high heat and sunlight over time. Their thin vinyl extrusion can dent and bend out of shape. Fibrex’s strength and rigidity give it long-lasting stability vinyl cannot match.
Insulating Properties
Fibrex’s blend of wood and vinyl creates an excellent insulating material that outperforms vinyl. The wood fibers have better thermal retention properties than vinyl alone. As a result, Fibrex windows seal in conditioned indoor air, preventing drafts and reducing heating and cooling costs.
Vinyl is not as effective an insulator, so vinyl windows are more likely to transfer heat and cold through the frame. Homeowners report lower energy bills after installing Fibrex windows. The composite material keeps homes comfortable in winter and summer.
Environmental Sustainability
Andersen Fibrex windows have earned Cradle to Cradle CertifiedTM Silver certification for their sustainable production methods and use of recycled materials. The wood fibers come from Forest Stewardship Council certified lumber, so they are harvested responsibly.
At the end of their life cycle, Fibrex windows can be safely recycled back into new construction materials. Vinyl windows have less green manufacturing and must be landfilled. Eco-conscious homeowners often prefer the sustainability benefits of Fibrex.
Noise Reduction
With their excellent insulating properties, Fibrex window frames also block outdoor noise penetrating your home. The bonded wood fibers and vinyl help absorb and dampen sound far better than vinyl alone. Fibrex windows significantly reduce noise from traffic, wind, and other external nuisances.
Vinyl window frames do not isolate noise nearly as effectively. Homeowners report noticeable sound reduction after installing Fibrex windows in their bedrooms, home offices, and other living areas sensitive to noise intrusion. The sound dampening is a major plus.
Rot Resistance
Unlike wood windows, Fibrex’s bonded vinyl polymer creates a waterproof barrier resisting rot and decay. Exposed wood windows are prone to moisture damage, fungal rot, and insect infestation unless rigorously maintained. The vinyl sheathing of Fibrex prevents water seepage into the wood fibers, eliminating rot issues.
While vinyl windows also resist rotting, they cannot match the overall durability and longevity of composite Fibrex. For a long-lasting, worry-free replacement window, Fibrex is the superior rot-proof choice.
Low Maintenance
Fibrex windows are designed to be virtually maintenance-free. The durable vinyl shell requires no painting, staining, or refinishing over the life of the window. A simple occasional washing is all that is needed to keep Fibrex windows looking fresh.
Vinyl also resists rot and decay but has an inferior track record for maintaining its appearance over decades. It can become brittle and faded when exposed to years of sunlight and extreme weather. Fibrex keeps an attractive, factory-fresh look with minimal upkeep.
Disadvantages of Fibrex
While Fibrex windows have numerous benefits over vinyl, there are a couple potential drawbacks:
- Higher cost – As a premium composite material, Fibrex windows are more expensive than vinyl. There is a higher upfront investment for the increased performance and aesthetics.
- Limited exterior colors – Fibrex only comes in a set selection of solid colors. Custom color-matching options are not available. Vinyl can be ordered in unlimited colors.
Overall, the advantages of superior strength, insulation, beauty, and sustainability outweigh the modest downsides for most homeowners. Fibrex offers long-term value despite the higher initial cost.
Benefits of Vinyl Windows
While vinyl cannot match the wood-like elegance and durability of composite Fibrex, vinyl windows do have a few benefits:
Lower Cost
Vinyl windows are generally the lowest cost replacement window option. The vinyl extrusion manufacturing process is efficient and inexpensive. Homeowners on a tight budget may find vinyl most affordable.
Fibrex windows command a higher price for their performance and desirability. Homeowners will need to weigh the value of superior materials against the higher cost.
Color Choices
Vinyl window frames can be ordered in standard or custom colors. Specialty vinyl extruders offer unlimited color options to match any home décor. Fibrex colors are limited to standard wood grain shades.
Good Insulation
While not equal to Fibrex, vinyl frames still offer decent thermal insulation properties. Multiple vinyl chambers help trap air and reduce conduction. Modern vinyl formulations have improved impact-resistance as well.
Lightweight
Vinyl window frames are very light, making them easy to transport and install. The light vinyl does not require heavy-duty structural support. Fibrex windows are heavier, which adds to the installation cost.
For buyers who prioritize affordable upfront cost and unlimited color choices, vinyl windows may provide an acceptable value alternative. However, vinyl cannot match the exquisite appearance, outstanding performance, and long-term durability of Andersen’s Fibrex.
Andersen Fibrex vs. Vinyl Window Cost Comparison
One of the biggest factors in choosing replacement windows is cost. Here is a price comparison of similar-quality Andersen Fibrex and vinyl windows:
- Double hung window – Andersen Fibrex = $600-800 per window. Vinyl = $300-500 per window.
- Casement window – Andersen Fibrex = $700-900 per window. Vinyl = $400-600 per window.
- Slider window – Andersen Fibrex = $900-1,100 per window. Vinyl = $500-700 per window.
- Picture window – Andersen Fibrex = $1,000-1,500 per window. Vinyl = $600-1,000 per window.
Fibrex windows range from approximately 50-100% more than vinyl. However, the investment pays dividends in superior performance, energy savings, and longevity. Homeowners report the long-term benefits make the extra cost worthwhile.
Professional installation further adds $200-500 per window for both materials. New windows can quickly pay for themselves in utility bill savings though.
Andersen Fibrex vs. Vinyl Windows: Which is Better?
When comparing Andersen’s Fibrex to vinyl replacement windows, Fibrex is the clear winner in nearly every category. Here is a recap of how the two materials stack up:
- Appearance – Fibrex looks elegant and natural while vinyl appears artificial and plastic.
- Strength – Fibrex has outstanding impact resistance and structural integrity. Vinyl is thin and prone to warping.
- Insulation – Fibrex offers excellent thermal performance while vinyl is just average.
- Sustainability – Fibrex is eco-friendly while vinyl has harsh chemical compounds.
- Noise Reduction – Fibrex dampens sound far better than hollow vinyl frames.
- Rot Resistance – Both materials resist rotting and decay adequately.
- Maintenance – Fibrex requires almost no upkeep while vinyl can become brittle and faded.
- Cost – Vinyl is cheaper upfront, but Fibrex offers better long-term value and payback.
For homeowners who want the best in terms of aesthetics, durability, insulation, sustainability, and longevity, Andersen Fibrex windows are worth the investment. While vinyl windows cost less initially, homeowners report much greater satisfaction and performance from Fibrex over years of use.
To experience the Fibrex difference yourself, visit an Andersen Certified Dealer. Factory-trained experts can show you Fibrex windows options for your home and provide pricing based on your specific window replacement needs. Contact a dealer today to get started with an Andersen Fibrex window quote. Your home will look beautiful while staying comfortable in any weather.
Frequently Asked Questions About Andersen Fibrex vs. Vinyl Windows
Is Fibrex worth the extra cost over vinyl windows?
Yes, for most homeowners, the 50-100% higher cost of Fibrex over vinyl is justified by the huge benefits in aesthetics, strength, insulation, soundproofing, and durability. Fibrex windows outperform vinyl often by double or more in independent testing. The superior construction ensures excellent performance for the lifetime of your home.
Does Fibrex come in different colors?
Fibrex windows are available in the following popular exterior woodgrain colors:
- Oak
- Maple
- Cherry
- Pine
- White
The rich, natural look of real wood is unmatched by vinyl’s artificial appearance. Custom color matching is not offered with Fibrex.
Can you tell the difference between Fibrex and real wood?
Fibrex replicates the elegant appearance of real wood so closely that it is virtually indistinguishable to the naked eye. The combination of wood fibers and vinyl polymers creates a gorgeous, authentic wood look that vinyl cannot match. Fibrex windows maintain their like-new visual appeal for decades.
Is Fibrex good in cold climates?
With outstanding thermal insulation properties, Fibrex windows excel in cold weather performance. The bonded wood fibers and vinyl resist heat transfer far better than vinyl alone. Fibrex windows will keep your home nice and cozy even when enduring frigid winter temperatures and bitter winds. Energy savings are often dramatic.
Does Fibrex warp or rot?
No, Fibrex resists warping, sagging, shrinking, rotting, and other damage issues common with exposed wood windows. The durable vinyl shell protects the inner wood fibers from moisture and temperature extremes. Maintenance is minimal for a lifetime of outstanding performance.
Can you repair Fibrex?
Minor damage can often be repaired onsite by a trained window technician. The vinyl exterior can be patched and holes filled as needed. Excessively damaged sections may need full replacements parts in rare cases. Fibrex’s durability ensures repairs are seldom needed.
Is Andersen better quality than other brands?
With over a century of window manufacturing expertise, Andersen is regarded as a top quality brand within the industry. Their Fibrex material innovation and rigorous testing results in some of the best performing and most beautiful windows available. Many homeowners report Andersen windows lasting 50+ years when properly cared for.
Conclusion
After comparing Andersen Fibrex and vinyl replacement windows, Fibrex emerges as the clear winner for aesthetics, strength, insulation, durability, and long-term satisfaction. While vinyl windows initially cost less, Andersen Fibrex windows deliver far superior performance and value over their lifespan. Homeowners rave about the natural wood beauty, cozy insulation, sound dampening, and virtually carefree maintenance of Fibrex windows. To experience the Fibrex difference yourself, contact a local Andersen dealer today to request a quote. Investing in Fibrex windows will enhance your home’s comfort and curb appeal for decades to come.