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Fiberglass vs Vinyl Windows Comparison for Texas Homes by Showroom Windows & Doors

Fiberglass vs Vinyl Windows: Which Is Right for Texas Homes?

Written by Diana on September 18, 2025. Posted in Energy Efficiency & Home Performance, News, Window Replacement & Installation, Windows. No Comments on Fiberglass vs Vinyl Windows: Which Is Right for Texas Homes?

Choosing the right replacement windows for your Texas home can feel overwhelming. The two most popular options fiberglass and vinyl windows each offer unique benefits in terms of cost, performance, and appearance.

At Showroom Windows & Doors, we specialize in helping San Antonio homeowners compare these choices side by side. Whether you’re upgrading for energy efficiency, curb appeal, or resale value, understanding the real differences between fiberglass and vinyl windows will help you make the best decision.

What Are Vinyl Windows?

Vinyl windows are made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a durable plastic material designed for energy efficiency and low maintenance.

Benefits of Vinyl Windows

Energy Efficiency – Tight seals prevent air leakage, keeping your home cooler in the Texas heat.
Low Maintenance – No painting or staining required. Just clean and enjoy.
UV Resistant – Won’t rot, corrode, or warp from sun exposure.
Longevity – Often last 20+ years with minimal upkeep.
Cost-Effective – Typically less expensive to buy and install compared to fiberglass or wood.

Recommended Product: Pella 250 Series Vinyl Windows

At Showroom Windows, we recommend the Pella 250 Series for vinyl replacement. Its thin-profile frame allows more glass and natural light, while Pella’s responsive warranty and service provide peace of mind if issues ever arise.

Average Cost in San Antonio:

A custom 35″ x 70″ double-hung Pella 250 window ranges from $950 – $1,250 installed, depending on factors such as stucco exteriors, interior wood casing, and finishing details.

What Are Fiberglass Windows?

Fiberglass windows are crafted from reinforced glass fibers formed through a pultrusion process. They are known for their exceptional strength, resistance to warping, and ability to handle extreme Texas weather.

Benefits of Fiberglass Windows

Energy Efficiency – Superior insulation reduces energy bills.
Durability – Stronger than vinyl; resists warping, rotting, and swelling.
Heat Resistance – Won’t soften or deform in extreme heat.
Thinner Frames – More glass area for natural light and better views.
Moisture Resistant – Ideal for humid or rainy climates.
Customizable – Can be painted and shaped for architectural flexibility.
Eco-Friendly – Recyclable and long-lasting.

Recommended Products: Pella Impervia & Marvin Essential Fiberglass Windows

We offer Pella Impervia and Marvin Essential, two of the strongest and most reliable fiberglass lines on the market. Both deliver long-lasting performance, modern design, and premium energy efficiency.

Average Cost in San Antonio:

A custom 35″ x 70″ fiberglass window in either line typically costs $1,900 – $2,300 installed, depending on home conditions like exterior stucco or interior trim.

Vinyl vs Fiberglass Windows: Side-by-Side Comparison

Here’s a side-by-side breakdown for Texas homeowners:

Feature	Vinyl Windows (Pella 250)	Fiberglass Windows (Pella Impervia / Marvin Essential)
Cost (San Antonio)	$950 – $1,250 installed	$1,900 – $2,300 installed
Durability	20+ years, may expand/contract in heat	30+ years, highly resistant to warping/heat
Energy Efficiency	Very good	Excellent (superior insulation)
Maintenance	Minimal, cannot be painted	Minimal, paintable, retains color
Appearance	Thin-profile, fewer style options	Sleek, customizable, wood-like finish available
Best For	Budget-conscious homeowners	Long-term value, premium performance

Which Windows Are Best for Texas Homes?

Choose Vinyl (Pella 250) if you want an affordable, energy-efficient option with reliable warranty support and a sleek thin-frame design.
Choose Fiberglass (Pella Impervia or Marvin Essential) if you’re looking for long-term durability, premium design, and top-tier energy efficiency that stands up to Texas heat.

Both are excellent investments, but your choice depends on your budget, design goals, and how long you plan to stay in your home.

Replacement Window Costs in San Antonio

Vinyl Windows (Pella 250): $950–$1,250 installed per custom double-hung unit (varies by stucco, casing, paint, etc.)
Fiberglass Windows (Pella Impervia or Marvin Essential): $1,900–$2,300 installed per comparable unit
Specialty Styles (bay, bow, custom shapes): $6,500–$12,500+ installed

💡 Pro Tip: Pairing new windows with doors can reduce overall project costs. Explore our Window Replacement Cost San Antonio Guide for more cost details.

ROI of Fiberglass vs Vinyl Windows

Replacement windows deliver a 65–75% return on investment when selling your home. They also lower utility bills thanks to better energy efficiency.

Vinyl ROI: Lower upfront cost, faster payback period.
Fiberglass ROI: Higher lifetime savings, stronger resale value.

Bay vs Bow Windows: Differences, Benefits & Costs for Texas Homeowners

Written by Diana on September 12, 2025. Posted in News, Window Replacement & Installation, Windows. No Comments on Bay vs Bow Windows: Differences, Benefits & Costs for Texas Homeowners

if you’re upgrading your home in San Antonio, you may be debating between bay windows and bow windows. Both styles dramatically transform curb appeal, increase natural light, and create cozy seating or display areas inside your home. But they differ in design, cost, and how they fit into your space.

In this guide, we’ll break down bay vs bow windows, compare benefits, and explain what Texas homeowners can expect to pay in 2025.

What Is a Bay Window?

A bay window is typically a three-window configuration that projects outward from your home. It usually includes:

One large picture window in the center
Two smaller casement or double-hung windows on each side

Benefits of Bay Windows:

Expands interior space with a built-in nook or seating area
Adds depth and dimension to your home’s exterior
Provides excellent ventilation from the operable side windows
Cost-effective compared to bow windows

Homeowners in San Antonio love bay windows for kitchens, dining rooms, and front-facing living areas where added natural light enhances everyday living.

What Is a Bow Window?

A bow window is made up of :

four to six windows arranged in a smooth, curved arc
Instead of sharp angles, it creates a rounded, elegant look that extends your living space

Benefits of Bow Windows:

Adds a dramatic architectural feature to your home
Offers panoramic views with more glass surface area
Can wrap around corners for unique layouts
Enhances property value in upscale neighborhoods

Bow windows are popular in San Antonio homes with larger walls, where the sweeping curve becomes a standout design feature.

Bay vs Bow Windows: Key Differences

Feature	Bay Windows	Bow Windows
Number of Windows	3 (sometimes 4)	4–6
Shape	Angular projection	Smooth curved arc
Cost	$6,500 – $12,500+ installed	$6,500 – $12,500+ installed depending on number of panes
Space Gained	Small seating nook	Larger extended space
Best Use	Kitchens, smaller rooms	Large living areas, statement walls

Bay vs Bow Windows Cost in San Antonio

In 2025, San Antonio homeowners can expect to spend $6,500 – $12,500+ each installed depending on size and number of panes.

Factors that affect cost:

Material choice (vinyl, fiberglass, or wood)
Size of the projection
Custom features like grilles, glass upgrades, or integrated seating

For more details on pricing, check out our Window Replacement San Antonio guide.

Which Is Better for Texas Homes?

Bay Windows are ideal for homeowners looking for added functionality (like a reading nook or window seat) at a lower price point.
Bow Windows are best for making a dramatic architectural statement and maximizing panoramic views.

Both options increase home value, enhance natural light, and improve curb appeal. The right choice depends on your budget, style preferences, and available wall space.

Window Replacement Cost San Antonio (2025 Guide)

Written by Diana on September 4, 2025. Posted in News, Window Replacement & Installation, Windows. No Comments on Window Replacement Cost San Antonio (2025 Guide)

Replacing your windows is one of the smartest upgrades you can make for your Texas home. But how much should you expect to spend in San Antonio in 2025? Costs vary depending on the size of your home, window style, and material choice, but understanding averages can help you budget and plan with confidence.

In this guide, we’ll break down window replacement costs in San Antonio, explain what factors affect pricing, compare top brands, and share how to get the best value for your investment.

Average Window Replacement Cost in San Antonio

On average, homeowners in San Antonio spend $980 – $2,700 per window installed in 2025. That means replacing 10 standard windows typically ranges from $9,800 – $27,000.

Lower range ($900 – $1,600 per window): Vinyl windows, standard sizes, no custom work
Mid-range ($1,250 – $2,250 per window): Fiberglass or composite windows, energy-efficient glass
High-end ($1,750 – $3,400+ per window): Wood or aluminum-clad wood windows, custom shapes, premium brands

Tip: Bigger, specialty styles like bay or bow windows can cost $6,500 – $12,500+ each installed.

Example Scenarios

A recent single-story ranch in Stone Oak with 8 vinyl windows cost around $4,500–$6,000 total.
A two-story home in Alamo Heights with 20 fiberglass windows recently cost $44,000.
A custom bay window upgrade in a living room may add another $3,000–$5,000 on its own.

Want to see what your project could cost per month? Use our financing calculator below:

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Factors That Affect Window Replacement Cost

Several key factors determine how much you’ll pay in San Antonio:

Window Material

Vinyl Windows: Affordable, durable, and low-maintenance. Still the most popular choice in Texas.
Fiberglass Windows: Stronger and more energy-efficient — ideal for San Antonio’s hot summers.
Wood Windows: Premium look and feel, but require more maintenance. Often used in historic districts.

Window Style & Size

Casement & Double-Hung: Common, moderately priced options.
Picture Windows: Large fixed panes — more glass, higher price.
Bay & Bow Windows: Expensive but dramatic upgrades that boost curb appeal.

Energy Efficiency Upgrades

Double or triple-pane glass
Low-E coatings
Argon gas fills

These features may add 10–20% to your upfront cost, but can save $200–$500 per year on energy bills in San Antonio’s climate.

💡 Pro Tip: CPS Energy occasionally offers rebates for installing Energy Star® certified windows, lowering your net project cost.

Cost by Brand in San Antonio

San Antonio homeowners often choose between Andersen, Marvin, and Pella, all of which are carried by Showroom Windows & Doors.

Andersen Windows: Mid-to-high range ($700 – $1,200 per window). Known for wood-clad designs and classic styles.
Marvin Windows: Wide range depending on the line. The Essential fiberglass series offers durability for Texas heat, while the Ultimate collection delivers premium wood craftsmanship.
Pella Windows: Affordable vinyl in the 250 Series all the way to luxury Reserve wood collections. A flexible option for every budget.

Local insight: Many homeowners in Boerne and Garden Ridge choose Marvin fiberglass for durability, while residents of historic San Antonio neighborhoods prefer Andersen or Pella Reserve wood windows for authenticity.

How to Get the Best Value

Getting the right balance of price and performance is key. Here are smart strategies:

Get Multiple Quotes – Prices can vary by thousands depending on the contractor.
Ask About Warranties – Look for coverage on both materials and installation.
Choose the Right Material – Don’t pay for features you won’t use. A small home may not need premium triple-pane glass.
Bundle Services – Replacing doors and windows together often unlocks discounts.
Check for Rebates – Local energy providers and manufacturers sometimes run seasonal promotions.

Window Replacement ROI in San Antonio

According to national studies, homeowners recoup 65–75% of their investment in window replacement when selling their home. In San Antonio, ROI is boosted by:

Lower energy bills (especially during long summers).
Improved curb appeal in competitive housing markets like Stone Oak and Alamo Heights.
Higher resale value for homes with modern, energy-efficient upgrades.

Over time, this makes new windows one of the highest-return remodeling projects for Texas homeowners.