Windows - fiberglass vs. vinyl

[Shane]

We're planning a house build, and my wife wants black windows. I found one company that makes actual solid black vinyl, as opposed to painted or coated vinyl. But I'm concerned about the extra heat of black on a vinyl product. Seems like that could cause it to warp??

The other option is fiberglass, which looks to be an all around better window and color choices are easier. Con is the higher cost. I haven't got bids yet, but it looks like fiberglass windows can cost anywhere from 30% more to double the cost of vinyl. I also wonder if black window frames, even if they don't warp, could still cause problems with the seal around the edge of the glass, due to the heat.

So 2 questions....

Is the heat issue of black a real problem with either kind of window?

and...

Vinyl or fiberglass?

[Walker]

First let me say I have no idea if there are any issues with black, I doubt it, and I don't remember what brand vinyl windows we bought. They are double pane/double hung with a lifetime warranty. In over 20 years they have replaced 2 that lost their seal(fogged up) and two panes I broke. No other issues at all. They still look and perform like new.

[Mudslinger]

People told me that if and when we put Black composite shingles on our roof, our utility bills would skyrocket due to the Black color and the heat it could produce. Did the Black shingles and utility bills never changed. Now everyone in our old neighborhood have Black shingles. I personally do not think the black will affect the fiberglass or vinyl windows. We went with vinyl, not black on our replacement windows.

[mikemorvan]

Painted black windows have a reputation for peeling. “Real “ black vinyl windows shouldn’t be an issue.

[Shane]

Yeah, I'm seeing painted vinyl (which I would never use), bonded black over white vinyl (which would be better), and at least 1 company that makes solid black vinyl. Solid black seems like it would be best, if they actually make good windows and if they don't warp from the heat.

I'm thinking I'll go with fiberglass though, unless the cost is just too crazy.