Windows Guide
Vinyl vs Fiberglass vs Wood Windows: Which Frame to Choose
By Dioclecio Gomes, Founder & Owner3 min readUpdated October 2, 2026
In This Guide
Vinyl is the budget choice, wood and fiberglass cost more. This Old House reports per-window averages of $472 for vinyl, $544 for wood and $564 for fiberglass, and Bob Vila reports averages of $550, $800 and $1,250. In Massachusetts our installed price for a standard window runs $450 to $950.
Vinyl vs fiberglass vs wood windows is mostly a question of price, look and how much upkeep you accept. Cost figures come from This Old House and Bob Vila, and energy claims from ENERGY STAR. The two cost sources disagree on exact numbers, so treat them as ranges.
How Much Does Each Frame Material Cost?
The sources agree on the order, not the dollars.
| Frame | This Old House (avg per window) | Bob Vila (range, avg per window) |
|---|---|---|
| Vinyl | $472 | $100 to $900, avg $550 |
| Wood | $544 | $150 to $1,300, avg $800 |
| Fiberglass | $564 | $500 to $1,500, avg $1,250 |
| Composite | $513 | $300 to $1,200, avg $900 |
| Aluminum | $453 | $75 to $400, avg $275 |
Our own installed pricing is $450 to $950 for a standard window, and $2,800 to $5,500 for bay or bow windows. Bob Vila gives installation labor at $100 to $300 per window.
Does the Glass Matter as Much as the Frame?
It matters a lot for energy. This Old House reports $400 for single-pane, $529 for double-pane and $609 for triple-pane per window. ENERGY STAR says replacing single-pane windows with certified ones lowers household energy bills by an average of up to 13 percent nationwide, and that certified windows may cost more but installation labor should be comparable. Look for the ENERGY STAR label whichever frame you pick.
Comparing window frames?
We bring samples, measure every opening and give you a fixed price per window, in writing.
Get a Free Window EstimateWhich Frame Should You Choose?
Choose vinyl for the best value, fiberglass or composite if you want a sturdier frame and will pay more, and wood if the look of your home calls for it and you accept the upkeep that real wood needs. A free in-home measure lets you see samples and get a fixed price per window. For overall cost, see our window replacement cost guide.
The Bottom Line
Vinyl is the value pick, while fiberglass and wood cost more. Pick the frame for your budget and the look of your home, and insist on ENERGY STAR certified glass. Get a Free Window Estimate
FAQ
Are vinyl or fiberglass windows better?
Fiberglass costs more. This Old House averages $564 per window against $472 for vinyl, and Bob Vila $1,250 against $550. Vinyl gives the best value and fiberglass a sturdier frame.
Are wood windows worth the extra cost?
Wood averages $544 per window at This Old House and $800 at Bob Vila. It suits homes where the look matters, but real wood needs more upkeep than vinyl.
Do ENERGY STAR windows save money?
ENERGY STAR says replacing single-pane windows with certified ones lowers household energy bills by an average of up to 13 percent nationwide. This Old House found 36% of surveyed homeowners reported lower bills after installing.