Which window frames are the best: Fiberglass, PVC or Fiberglass hybrid uPVC?
After experiencing the heat dome in southern bc, I'm looking to replace slider windows with a casement-style window. My wish list of thermal and sound reduction points to a triple pane window. I want to purchase the best quality window that I can afford, even if it means only purchasing a few at a time. Most window suppliers that I have found at Hardware outlets offer PVC tri-pane windows. I was thinking fiberglass frames and would like to know what benefits a hybrid uPVC fiberglass frame offers? Should I settle for a tripane vinyl window frame?
Also suggestions for fiberglass window manufacturer would be helpful!
Thanks
For help choosing the right window frames, see this page where we cover it extensively -
Choosing windows: which window frames are the best?
While vinyl windows may be the cheapest, we are not fans of PVC or uPVC as they are both made of polyvinyl chloride which is a very toxic and dangerous substance. PVC window frames are also more susceptible to warping with extreme temperature fluctuations, so for colder climates uPvC may be better of the two. UPVC has no plasticizers in it so it is more rigid.
Our preference for window frames is wood or fiberglass for performance and ecological impact, but make your own call on that as we understand budget it always a concern.
Other important considerations for windows are Low E coatings, argon gas, and as you mention triple pane instead of double pane. Below are a few more of our building guide pages on window pages to help you decide. You can also find a window manufacturer for BC in the Ecohome Building Product Directory
Our top tips of what to look for when choosing the best windows
Low E coatings: are they good for windows and what are the pros and cons?