I'm curious what the general consensus out there is about the best windows for green projects? I find Fiberglass Windows Spec'd for Residential projects a lot but for some reason Commercial Projects hardly spec them. Shouldn't commercial applications want longevity, performance and comfort from a window system too?

I don't see any reason why fiberglass would be any greener than vinyl or metal-clad.  I think they all have some their share of eco-problems in the manufacturing process.  I believe the efficiency of a window is mostly related to the type of window and the installation.   It's very important to get a good seal all around the window, using foam, calking or other materials.  Most windows nowadays are at least sealed double-pane.  I would also highly recommend Low-E.  Some are Argon-filled, that is supposed to improve efficiency, but I've been told that this gas eventually leaks out.

favorite window frame material for green building projects is wood or you can decorate it from green plants which is easily available to online nursery for green shopping

Posted By Josh C on 11 May 2013 04:08 PM
  I find Fiberglass Windows Spec'd for Residential projects a lot but for some reason Commercial Projects hardly spec them. Shouldn't commercial applications want longevity, performance and comfort from a window system too?

The reason why fiberglass windows are not used in commercial projects is because they cannot pass fire code as that they only get a Class C Fire Rating. Commercial projects require at least a Class B Fire Rating for flame spread and smoke density. Inline supposedly formulated a new resin with a fire retardant but it's pretty costly and not offered in residential applications.

As far as "greener" goes. It's all a spin. Both PVC and fiberglass window frames create pollution when manufactured. Independent research has proven that the claims made by either fiberglass or PVC is just sales spin. Both create polluting by-products when they are manufactured.

Lbear
fiberglass windows can and are used in commercial applications. I have used them dozens of times. Point out to me where in IBC 2009 it states the fire class rating for exterior applications.