Composite Windows Review

Composite refers to various parts or elements. With composite windows, units are created using a variety of materials, playing on the strengths of each. That’s called having your cake and eating it too! We want you to be an informed consumer, so we’ve put together some information to help lay out what composite windows can offer. In this article, we’ll take a look at these distinguishing characteristics of this window choice:

1. Construction
2. Durability
3. Energy Efficiency and Eco-Impact
4. Costs  

Construction: What is a composite window?

An evolution of technology

Composite windows are made of a combination of materials such as wood, plastics, and metals. The material, which looks like wood, is actually made of several wood products (like particleboard or laminated strand lumber) and polymers (plastics and resins). This fenestration choice is a newer option in the window world but is gaining traction. In fact, Andersen Windows has created their own composite material called Fibrex®. Their unique blend is made up of reclaimed wood fiber and thermoplastic polymer. They’re even able to create made-to-order custom colors blended into the Fibrex® at customer request.

Composite windows are a blend of lumber and polymers.

^{Andersen's 100 Series is made from Fibrex, a wood fiber, and polymer composite.}

Durability: How durable are composite windows?

Reliable in the harshest climates

Composite window frames are fairly low-maintenance and do not require refinishing every few years like wood. A simple washing and you’re good to go. Vinyl window frames can soften, warp, twist, and bow if heat builds up within the frame. Due to the superior moisture and decay resistance of composite materials, it’s often a good choice for homes in hot and humid climates, especially compared to natural wood. Because you will not need to regularly stain or paint composite windows, they’re a great way to enhance the beauty of your home with much less upkeep.

Beauty and easy upkeep are achievable with composite windows.

Energy Efficiency and Eco-Impact of Composite Windows

Capable windows and clean air

Composite windows offer the strength of wood with a longer service life. But that strength is not the only benefit you’ll find. Composite material also has the same thermal properties as wood windows, making it an energy efficient choice for your home. Window frames with better thermal performance will hold a glass seal longer than windows that produce more thermal transfer. Better thermal performance means less expanding and contracting around the glass which means the seal around the glass is less likely to break. When the seal around the glass breaks energy performance of the window weakens.

Brennan offers Andersen Fibrex® windows whose frames and sashes block thermal transfer 700 times better than aluminum.

Since fewer chemicals are necessary to produce and maintain composite windows, they’re a great option for those of us conscious of our indoor air quality.

Volatile organic compounds (VOCs) are a large group of organic chemicals that are emitted as gases from certain solids or liquids. VOCs can are extremely hazardous to our health. Composite windows, like those in Andersen’s Fibrex® line, reduce VOC emissions because no wood preservative treatments or painting is required.

Fewer chemicals mean greater air quality for your home.

^{Fewer chemicals mean greater air quality for your home.}

Costs: How much do composite windows cost?

Rates will vary, and that’s a good thing!

Composite windows can range in pricing based on the additional features or customization you choose. What’s great is that you can enjoy the benefits of the composite material without having to break the bank. Using Andersen as a guide, we can see that a Fibrex® double-hung window in the 100 Series is an economical choice for homeowners. For those looking for more wood and exterior colors, the A-Series or 400 Series Woodwright are rated to give you those choices:

If you’re looking for beautiful and durable windows that are easy to maintain, then composite windows may be for you. The combination of natural wood, particleboard, and polymers provide a sturdy interior while your choice of aluminum or vinyl add all-weather protection and a canvas to create the best look for your home.

Take a look at some of Brennan’s window offerings and contact us at 817-860-9767 to get started on making the switch to composite windows today:

Andersen 100 Series Fibrex Windows

Andersen 400 Series Wood Windows with Fibrex Cladding

Andersen A-Series Wood Windows with Fiberglass and Fibrex Composite exterior

Brennan

Published

October 08, 2018

Updated

July 13, 2021

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