If you are shopping for new windows, you have probably heard every number under the sun.
“Twenty years!”
“Thirty years!”
“Lifetime!”
“Till the sun burns out!”
Okay… that last one is a stretch.
But truly, it can be hard to know what to believe. Window companies love tossing out big lifespan claims, and homeowners are left thinking every window should somehow last forever.
At Southwest Exteriors, we have installed windows across San Antonio for more than 30 years. We have seen what holds up and what fails early. We have also seen how climate, construction and installation affect longevity.
So let’s answer the question clearly and honestly.
How long should your windows actually last?
First: Windows Don’t Have an Exact Expiration Date
Windows do not die on a schedule.
They wear out based on materials, quality, and how they are built and installed.
Think of windows the same way you think about cars.
You can buy two different models in the same year, and one will last 15 years while the other struggles after five.
To make this simple, let’s break it down by material.
How Long Vinyl Windows Should Last
Builder grade vinyl:
10 to 15 years
Mid-grade vinyl:
15 to 20 years
High quality vinyl:
20 to 30 years
Vinyl lasts differently depending on the quality of the extrusion, the thickness of the frame, and how it handles heat. In Texas, cheap vinyl struggles. The sun causes expansion, contraction and warping over time.
High quality vinyl performs much better, but even then, vinyl is not the longest lasting material on the market. It is a great choice for budget, short-term ownership or lower exposure areas.
How Long Fiberglass Windows Should Last
30-50 years or more.
Fiberglass is the closest thing to a “forever window” that most homeowners can buy. Since fiberglass expands at almost the same rate as glass, the seals stay tight, the frame stays stable and the window stays square.
It handles UV, heat and weather far better than vinyl, which is why fiberglass regularly lasts decades longer. If you plan to stay in your home long term, this is usually the most durable choice.
How Long Wood Windows Should Last
Twenty to fifty years depending on maintenance
Wood windows are beautiful and timeless, but they are only as healthy as the care they receive.
Paint, stain and sealing determine their lifespan more than anything else. When maintained well, wood windows can last generations. When neglected, they can soften, rot or swell in just a few short years.
What Actually Causes Windows to Fail Faster?
Here are the biggest culprits we see in homes across San Antonio:
- Poor installation
- Bad sealing or flashing
- Extreme sun exposure
- Cheap frames or thin vinyl
- Failing glass seals
- Water intrusion
- Lack of maintenance (wood)
A well made window with a sloppy install will fail long before a mid grade window installed correctly. This is why installation is just as important as the product itself.
How Do You Know When Your Windows Are Near the End of Their Life?
You do not need to guess. Look for signs like:
- Drafts
- Difficulty opening or closing
- Fog between the panes
- Soft or warped frames
- Temperature swings in the room
- Rising energy bills
- Cracks or bowing
If your windows show several of these symptoms, they are likely nearing the end of their useful life.
How Long Should Windows Last in Texas Specifically?
Heat matters. UV matters. Sun exposure matters.
Here in San Antonio, the lifespan of most windows is shorter than in cooler northern states. Vinyl tends to age faster because of expansion and contraction. Fiberglass stays the most stable, which is why it performs so well in hot climates.
If you are comparing quotes, it helps to ask:
“How long is this window realistically expected to last in Texas heat, not just nationwide?”
The answers can be very telling.
The Bottom Line
Windows do not last forever, but the right material paired with the right installation can last decades.
If you want lower cost and shorter term value, choose high quality vinyl.
If you want long term durability, choose fiberglass.
If you want a classic look and do not mind maintenance, wood is still beautiful.
Not sure which window is right for your home and your timeline?
Schedule a commitment free consultation with Southwest Exteriors.
We will walk you through the pros and cons of each material, show you live performance readings with our window analyzer and give you a clear written quote you can sit with before making a decision.
No pressure. No rush. Just honest information to help you choose the window that fits your life.
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