Andersen Windows and Doors engineered a material called Fibrex® to offer a smart alternative to extruded vinyl windows — one that outperforms vinyl while remaining budget-friendly. In this guide, we’ll explain Fibrex, the pros and cons of Fibrex windows, and which Andersen collections feature this innovative material.
What is Fibrex?
Fibrex is a composite material made from wood fiber (40% by weight) and thermoplastic polymer (60% by weight). Andersen uses reclaimed wood fibers from their wood window manufacturing process to manufacture Fibrex windows, reducing waste. By reinforcing the plastic with wood, Andersen created windows that are durable, energy-efficient, fade-resistant, and twice as strong as extruded vinyl — while remaining low-cost and low-maintenance.
Fibrex vs. Vinyl
Both vinyl and Fibrex have low thermal conductivity (meaning they’re good insulators), but Fibrex material outperforms vinyl on thermal expansion (expanding and contracting in response to temperature changes) and its heat distortion threshold (the temperature at which the material starts to soften).
| Fibrex | Vinyl | |
|---|---|---|
| Thermal Conductivity | .13 BTU/hr. ft.ºF | .10 BTU/hr. ft.ºF |
| Thermal Expansion | 1.57 In/In ºF x 10 | 3.42 In/In ºF x 10 |
| Heat Distortion Threshold | 173 F | 163 F |
Advantages of Fibrex
Andersen’s Fibrex windows are a newer material to the market, filling the need for windows that are more affordable than clad-wood, aluminum, or fiberglass — but that outperform vinyl. Here are the main advantages to know about Fibrex windows.
Stronger than Vinyl
Fibrex is twice as strong as extruded vinyl, more effectively resisting warping and cracking. One of the main complaints about vinyl is that it can warp when exposed to extreme temperatures and temperature swings. Fibrex incorporates wood fibers, which means it stands up to high temperatures and fluctuations better than vinyl.
Because Fibrex windows are stronger than vinyl, they also have narrower frames and sashes while still supporting the weight of the window pane — allowing for more glass and a better outdoor view!
Longer Lifespan than Vinyl
Because Fibrex is a composite material, it’s more rigid and has a longer lifespan than vinyl which is 100% plastic. Fibrex is also fade-resistant, for a longer lasting look. And while vinyl is difficult to paint, Fibrex can easily be painted a custom color. Click here for details about Andersen’s exclusive Owner-2-Owner® limited warranty.
Quality Performance at an Accessible Price
Homeowners and builders choose Fibrex over wood, aluminum, or fiberglass windows because Fibrex offers durability and quality performance at a more accessible price point than these alternatives.
- Fibrex vs. Wood: Fibrex windows are virtually maintenance-free — resisting rot, mold, and fading. And while wood is susceptible to thermal transmission, the combination of the Fibrex and glass inhibits temperature transmission through the window — providing “thermal break”.
- Fibrex vs. Aluminum: Fibrex blocks thermal transfer better than aluminum, helping reduce energy bills.
- Fibrex vs. Fiberglass: Fibrex is low-maintenance and reliable like fiberglass, but is a more budget-conscious option.
Limitations of Fibrex
Andersen’s Fibrex windows meet a specific need, but this option isn’t for everyone. Here are some drawbacks to Fibrex to consider before making a decision.
Higher Price than Most Vinyl
Vinyl and Fibrex windows are in the same general price range, but vinyl windows are usually cheaper — plus they’re more widely available, being supplied by many different retailers. If a project requires low-maintenance windows and the house isn’t in a climate that is difficult for vinyl to withstand, it may be worth it to stick with vinyl windows — or go up to a more premium option that has superior energy performance features and a significantly longer lifespan.
Fewer Design Options than Other Andersen Series
The Fibrex windows in Andersen’s 100 Series have 4 interior finish options and 5 exterior colors. This streamlined collection offers a sleek, modern look but it doesn’t offer as much customization as the 400 Series or A-Series. Andersen’s premium A-Series windows feature design options that achieve almost any aesthetic desired, and their best-selling 400 series offers highly customizable wood windows.
Alternative Frame Materials Offer Improved Performance
The main disadvantage of Fibrex windows (and vinyl windows) is that there are window frame materials with better energy efficiency, durability, and other performance qualities.
For example, the A-Series combines multiple material types — wood, fiberglass, and Fibrex — into one top-of-the-line product that has the best features of every material. Andersen’s 400 Series is their best-selling collection, featuring premium wood windows that are especially popular for traditional homes.
Are Fibrex windows worth it?
It depends on the project and customer’s preferences! For homeowners or builders who are looking for a more affordable window or door but want improved durability, energy efficiency and aesthetic qualities, Fibrex windows are a great choice. They’re a unique middle-of-the-road option between vinyl and higher-priced choices like clad wood or fiberglass.
If you live in Connecticut, Westchester County, NY, or South County, RI — the Andersen experts at Ring’s End offer a 100% free consultation (on-site or in-home) to help you plan and price your new windows or replacement window project. One of our window pros will work with you to evaluate your project, inspect your windows, identify problems, understand your priorities and budget, and provide design options tailored to your needs.
Andersen’s Fibrex Window Options
You can find windows made with Fibrex composite materials in two Andersen collections: the 100 Series and A-Series.
All-Fibrex Windows
Crafted entirely from Fibrex, the 100 Series is Andersen’s main collection of Fibrex composite windows. 100 Series windows meet the needs of homes in a variety of climates, featuring durable windows with a sleek, contemporary design and color palette. This series offers a budget-conscious choice without sacrificing style or performance.
Andersen 100 Series
Window Styles: Single-Hung, Awning, Casement, Gliding, Picture, Specialty
Interior Options: White, Sandtone, Black, Dark Bronze
Exterior Options: White, Sandtone, Terratone, Black, Dark Bronze
Windows with Fibrex Exterior Cladding
Andersen’s premium window and door collection, the A-Series, features high-quality wood windows with exterior cladding made from both Fibrex and fiberglass materials. Due to this unique combination of materials, A-Series windows are the most energy efficient and high-performing option from Andersen.
Andersen A-Series
Window Styles: Single and Double-Hung, Awning, Casement, Gliding, Picture, Specialty
Interior Options: 6 Wood Species, 6 Wood Finishes, 13 Colors
Exterior Options: 11 Colors
Explore Andersen Windows at Ring’s End
Ring’s End is an authorized dealer of Andersen windows and patio doors. We showcase and sell Andersen’s A-Series, 400 Series, 200 Series, and 100 Series. Not sure which one you’re interested in? Check out our Buyer’s Guide to Andersen Windows or visit one of our showrooms across the Northeast to see Andersen windows in person and get expert advice from our window team.
You can also contact us using our online chat, by phone, or by texting (203)-PRO-HELP. Our window pros would be more than happy to answer questions and provide options for your project.