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When it comes time to replace the windows in your home, you want to make sure you choose the right brand. Two popular options on the market today are Cascade and Milgard windows. But what exactly sets these two brands apart? In this comprehensive guide, we'll compare Cascade and Milgard windows side-by-side, looking at the pros and cons of each. Key factors like durability, energy efficiency, cost, warranties, and more will be examined to help you determine which is the better choice for your home improvement project. A Brief Comparison Table AspectsCascadeMilgardPriceMore affordable, lower costHigher price pointsWarranty10 years on materialsFull lifetime on materials and laborEnergy EfficiencyVery good, meet ENERGY STARExcellent, exceed ENERGY STAR 6.0FramesVinyl, compositeVinyl, fiberglass, woodGlassLow-E, triple glaze optionsSunCoat Low-E, triple standardStylesMore classic, custom shapesContemporary, modern aestheticService AreaPacific NorthwestWestern U.S.CustomizationLimited color optionsWide selection of colors Overview of Cascade Windows Cascade Windows is a company based out of Spokane, Washington that has been making windows since the 1950s. They manufacture a variety of different window styles including single-hung, double-hung, sliding, casement, awning, and more. Cascade uses quality vinyl, composite, and aluminum materials in their window construction. Their Ultrex fiberglass material is fade, peel, and flake resistant. Composite frames with an inner vinyl thermal barrier improve insulation. Energy efficient glazing options include triple pane, dual Low-E, argon gas filled, and more. Advanced glazing blocks UV rays to protect interiors. Cascade's Super Spacer warm edge technology also improves thermal performance. Many Cascade windows meet ENERGY STAR requirements. And their composite and vinyl products are GREENGUARD Gold certified as low VOC emitting. Overall, Cascade offers a good mix of standard and upgraded window features. Their products back up performance with solid warranties. Overview of Milgard Windows Milgard Windows & Doors is a leading national brand founded in 1958 and based out of Tacoma, Washington. They offer vinyl, fiberglass, wood, and aluminum windows and patio doors. Their top vinyl window series is Tuscany which comes standard with a durable fiberglass construction. The slim frame design allows for more natural light. For optimal energy efficiency, Milgard uses SunCoat or SunCoatMAX glazings. Triple glazing, foam filled frames, and edge spacers further improve insulation. Many Milgard models meet ENERGY STAR version 6.0 criteria. Milgard windows feature premium hardware and moving parts. Their Quiet Line motor is whisper-quiet. And SmartTouch locks allow windows to be securely locked with one touch. All Milgard products are backed by a Full Lifetime Warranty including coverage for materials and labor. This makes them a brand you can really trust. Also Read: Differences Between PGT Windows And Andersen Windows. Weather Resistance and Durability When comparing the durability of Cascade vs Milgard windows, there are a few key factors to consider. Materials Cascade offers vinyl, composite, and aluminum window options whereas Milgard also includes wood and fiberglass. Composite and fiberglass are highly impact resistant. And all major brands use insulating glass units which have excellent thermal shock resistance. Milgard's premium vinly Tuscany series features the most durable vinyl frames reinforced with fiberglass. Cascade's Ultrex fiberglass is also fade and flake resistant. Overall, both brands utilize durable materials designed to withstand weather elements. Frame Strength Robust frame construction is important for stability and durability. Both Cascade and Milgard window frames are fusion welded for air-tight strength. The metal reinforcement also improves structural integrity. Milgard vinyl frames have the edge here with their fiberglass reinforcement making them highly resistant to sagging or warping. Weatherstripping Weatherstripping prevents air and water infiltration. Cascade utilizes Santoprene weatherstripping which is durable and flexible. Milgard also uses flexible PVC or thermoplastic vulcanizate (TPE) weatherstripping. Both brands provide solid weather seals. Moisture Resistance Excess moisture can damage window components.Vinyl, fiberglass, and composite materials from both brands resist swelling and deterioration from moisture. And the multi-chambered frame designs allow for drainage and ventilation. CAscade and Milgard window frames are designed to prevent trapping moisture. Overall, Cascade and Milgard are quite comparable when it comes to sturdy design, weatherproofing, and water resistance. Both makes offer windows built to handle all types of weather conditions and climates. Glass Options The types of glass used in the window unit have a big impact on performance. Here's how Cascade and Milgard compare: Glazing Glazing refers to the panes of glass within the insulated glass unit. Most standard windows have double pane construction. But triple glazing adds another layer foroptimal insulation. Cascade windows are available with triple glazing. Milgard also offers triple glazed options on select designs. This really cuts down on heat loss through the glass. Low-E Coatings Low-emissivity or Low-E coatings help reduce heat flow in and out. There are two types: Low-E - blocks heat loss in winter Low-E2 - blocks heat gain in summer Cascade Low-E is standard on their dual pane windows. And they offer optional Low-E2 and Low-E3 for enhanced efficiency. Milgard also has SunCoat or SunCoatMAX Low-E as standard on their dual panes. Low-E can be added to the inner pane of triples. So both brands recognize the importance of Low-E technology. Gas Fills The space between panes can be filled with argon or krypton gas. This further prevents heat conduction. Cascade ias argon gas fill available. Milgard injects argon gas into most units as well. This boosts insulation while keeping costs down compared to pricier krypton. Spacers The spacer separates the panes of glass. Advanced spacers like Cascade's Super Spacer and Milgard's Edge Spacer improve insulation at the edges. UV Protection Solar radiation can fade furniture and floors. Cascade offers laminated glass options that block 99% of UV rays. Milgard also has coatings to filter UV. This prevents fading and damage. Both brands provide impressive glass technologies. Triple glazing, Low-E coatings, argon fill, and UV protection are available from Cascade and Milgard. Energy Efficiency Comparison A driving factor for new windows is increased energy savings. Let's see how Cascade and Milgard compare: ENERGY STAR Ratings Many Cascade and Milgard models meet ENERGY STAR qualifications for the Northern, North-Central, South-Central, and Southern climate zones. This means they exceed minimum standards for U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). Cascade windows that are ENERGY STAR certified include: 1500 Series single-hung 2500 Series single-hung 3500 Series single-hung 9000 Series vinyl sliding patio door Milgard series that meet ENERGY STAR include: Tuscany® Series vinyl windows and patio doors UltraTM Series fiberglass windows and patio doors EssenceTM Series wood windows and patio doors TrinsicTM Series vinyl windows Quiet LineTM Series vinyl windows So both brands have ENERGY STAR options. Milgard has more series that qualify across more product lines. Insulation U-factor measures how well a window prevents heat from escaping. The lower the U-factor the better. Cascade windows can have U-factors as low as 0.22 with triple glazing. Milgard also gets down to 0.22 with triple pane. Both also utilize multi-chambered vinyl frames. The air pockets provide thermal insulation similar to a thermos. Overall the two brands are comparable when it comes to insulating values and meeting ENERGY STAR standards. Both excel at keeping homes comfortable in all weather. Cost Comparison Milgard windows do come at a higher initial purchase price than Cascade. But Milgard products often have upgraded features included in base models. Cascade has more budget-friendly options for homeowners looking for an energy efficient window without all the bells and whistles. When it comes to installation, costs can vary based on the contractor. As a national brand, Milgard installation may be pricier. But overall, installation costs are comparable between the two brands. Milgard offers a Full Lifetime Warranty which guarantees coverage on materials and labor. This provides peace of mind despite the higher upfront investment. Cascade has solid yet more limited warranties. So weigh the benefits of the warranty coverage based on your budget. Overall for shoppers looking for maximum value, Cascade delivers quality windows at lower prices. For those who prioritize premium features and lifetime coverage, Milgard is worth the higher prices. Also Read: Is Alliance Hawthorne Windows Worth It? Service Area and Availability Cascade Windows has dealers located throughout Washington, Oregon, Idaho, Montana, and Alaska. Select styles are available nationally through Lowe's. Milgard Windows & Doors has a dealer network covering the full western U.S. including Washington, Oregon, California, Nevada, Utah, Idaho, Colorado, Arizona, and New Mexico. Nationwide availability is through the Home Depot. So both have wide service areas and retailer availability in the western half of the country. Cascade edges out Milgard when it comes to certain northern states. And Milgard has more coverage across the southwest. Warranties The warranty coverage provides an indication of product confidence and durability. Here's how Cascade and Milgard compare: Cascade Windows Warranties 20 years - Seal failure resulting in visible obstruction through the panes 10 years - All component parts including labor 5 years - Certain hardware components 1 year - Screen and moving parts Cascade offers solid yet limited windows warranties. All components are covered for 10 years which is the essential coverage window. Milgard Windows Warranties Milgard Windows Lifetime - Vinyl and fiberglass frame and component materials Lifetime - Glass breakage and seal failure 10 years - Certain hardware pieces 5 years - Laminated glass and skylights 1 year - Moving parts and screens Milgard provides an industry leading Full Lifetime Warranty. This covers frame materials, glass breakage, seal failure, and defects. Labor is also included for lifetime. The lifetime coverage really sets Milgard apart. This peace of mind helps justify the higher initial investment. Aesthetics Along with performance, you want windows that enhance your home's appearance. Here are some design factors to compare: Frame Design Cascade offers classic frame styles with brickmould, flange, and block options. The beveled exterior profile adds dimension. Milgard's contemporary frame profiles feature more slim lines. The PureViewTM design creates a clean, sleek look. For a traditional home, Cascade provides classic beauty. Milgard's modern minimal frames suit contemporary homes. Color Choices Cascade vinyl windows come in solid vinyl white or tan. Custom color matching is available. Milgard allows you to customize the interior and exterior vinyl frame colors. They offer up to 9 standard colors. So for easy color coordination, Milgard provides more versatility. Style Options All standard operating styles are available from both brands - single-hung, double-hung, sliding, casement, awning, picture windows, etc. Cascade provides more specialty options like garden windows, arch tops, transoms, and custom shapes. If trending window styles are desired, Milgard has more selection like radius and geometric designs. Overall both brands allow design flexibility. Cascade excels at classic windows while Milgard leads with trendy styles. Glass Designs Cascade offers internal grids placed between glass panes. Flat grids help replicate divided lite look. Milgard also provides Flat grids in horizontal, vertical, and diagonal designs. Their Quiet Line series features a sculpted grid profile. So both Cascade and Milgard window grids allow you to match home architecture. When it comes to aesthetics, there are benefits to both brands. For classic charm, Cascade delivers. Milgard's contemporary windows create modern elegance. Also Read: How Milgard V300 And V400 Windows Are Different? Environmentally-Friendly Factors Eco-conscious homeowners will appreciate these green attributes: Materials Cascade uses recycled material in their vinyl Milgard also incorporates recycled vinyl content Both utilize fiberglass which is earth-friendly Energy Efficiency Improved insulation saves energy ENERGY STAR models prevent waste Manufacturing Both factories apply green practices Cascade uses 97% waste-free manufacturing Milgard meets LEED standards Certifications Cascade composite windows are GREENGUARD Gold certified Milgard meets criteria for LEED green building standard So both brands utilize responsible sourcing and green production methods. Their energy efficient windows also conserve resources long-term. Pros and Cons of Cascade Windows ProsConsVery good durability and weather resistanceMore limited lifetime warranty termsEnergy efficient with triple glazing availableInstallation may vary based on contractorCost effective pricingColor options not as flexibleTraditional aesthetics and custom shapesNot as many contemporary style choicesRecycled materials and green productionService limited mostly to Northwest Pros and Cons of Milgard Windows ProsConsExcellent durability with fiberglass reinforcementHigher upfront window costsMeets ENERGY STAR 6.0 strict standardsCan have longer lead timesFull Lifetime Warranty on materials and laborMore modern look not suited for all homesWide range of style and color optionsLimited mostly to western statesLarge sustainable manufacturing footprint Also Read: Comparison of Andersen And Interstate Windows. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) What is the quality of Cascade Windows? Cascade Windows are very good quality overall. They use weather resistant Ultrex fiberglass and durable vinyl. Advanced glazing technology and fusion welded frames add resilience. Cascade windows back up performance with solid 20 year warranties. What is an alternative to Milgard? Cascade Windows provide a quality alternative to Milgard. Cascade offers better value with lower prices on vinyl and composite windows. Their products are comparably energy efficient and durable, with excellent weatherproofing. Cascade windows are a great option for homes in the Northwest. Who makes Cascade Windows? Cascade Windows and Doors is the manufacturer of Cascade brand windows. They are a family owned company based out of Spokane, Washington. Cascade has over 60 years of experience producing windows for the Northwest region. Who bought out Cascade Windows? Jeld-Wen acquired Cascade Windows and Doors in 2014. Cascade operates as a subsidiary of Jeld-Wen which is based in Oregon and is one of the largest window and door manufacturers globally. The Cascade brand and operations have remained intact after the acquisition. The Bottom Line In summary, Cascade and Milgard both make excellent energy efficient windows built to last. For homeowners on a budget, Cascade is the clear value choice. Their prices are lower than Milgard, but quality remains reliable. Milgard justify their higher pricing through upgraded features and lifetime warranties. Their modern styling also appeals for contemporary homes. When choosing between the two, consider your budget, design, location, and warranty priorities. Cascade excels on price while Milgard shines on premium features. With either brand, you can be assured of getting a sturdy, high-performance window. Carefully weigh the pros and cons as you make your window decision.