15 Aug Fibrex® vs. Vinyl Windows: Which Is the Better Choice for Your Home?
If you’re shopping for replacement windows, you’ve likely come across two popular material options: Fibrex® and vinyl. While both are common in residential window replacement, the differences in performance, durability, and long-term value are significant.
At Renewal by Andersen, we manufacture all of our replacement windows with Fibrex® material—a patented composite that outperforms vinyl in almost every category. In this guide, we’ll compare Fibrex vs. vinyl to help you make an informed decision for your home.
What Is Fibrex®?
Fibrex® is a proprietary composite material developed by Andersen Corporation. It’s made from 40% reclaimed wood fiber and 60% thermoplastic polymer, combining the strength and stability of wood with the low-maintenance benefits of vinyl.
Used exclusively in Renewal by Andersen windows, Fibrex® is an eco-friendly, high-performance material engineered for long-lasting durability.
Fibrex® vs. Vinyl: Side-by-Side Comparison
| Feature | Fibrex® | Vinyl |
| Durability | Resists warping, cracking, and fading | Can warp or crack in extreme climates |
| Strength | Stronger than vinyl; supports larger glass areas | Less rigid; limits window size and design |
| Energy Efficiency | Excellent insulation and thermal performance | Good insulation, but may degrade over time |
| Aesthetics | Sleek profiles, custom colors, and finishes | Limited color and design options |
| Maintenance | Low maintenance; doesn’t require painting | Low maintenance but prone to discoloration |
| Lifespan | Lasts decades with consistent performance | May degrade faster, especially in hot climates |
| Eco-Friendly | Contains recycled wood and polymer content | Typically not made from recycled materials |
Why Fibrex® Outperforms Vinyl—Especially in Florida
In a hot, humid, and storm-prone environment like Florida, window materials are put to the test. Vinyl windows may perform well initially, but over time, constant exposure to high heat and moisture can cause them to warp, become brittle, or lose their seal.
Fibrex® is engineered to withstand these tough conditions. It’s twice as strong as vinyl and maintains its stability and appearance, even in extreme temperatures. Additionally, its superior thermal insulation helps keep your home more energy-efficient, reducing your cooling costs during Florida’s long, hot summers.
Design Flexibility & Aesthetics
Fibrex® offers greater flexibility in design than vinyl. Because it’s so strong, Fibrex® frames can be narrower, allowing for more glass and natural light. It’s also available in a variety of interior and exterior finishes, including dark colors that resist fading over time—something vinyl struggles with.
Whether you want a traditional wood look or a sleek modern finish, Fibrex® gives you more options without compromising durability.
Choose Fibrex® with Confidence from Renewal by Andersen
When you choose Renewal by Andersen, you’re choosing more than just a window—you’re investing in a proven material backed by expert installation and one of the strongest warranties in the industry.
Our windows are custom-built for your home, energy efficient, and professionally installed for long-lasting performance. Fibrex® gives you the beauty of wood, the ease of vinyl, and the strength of something better.
Schedule Your Free Consultation Today
Discover the difference Fibrex® can make. Contact Renewal by Andersen today to schedule a free in-home consultation with one of our Design Consultants. We’ll show you how Fibrex® compares to vinyl in person and help you choose the perfect windows for your home.