Gerkin Vs. Marvin Windows For Home: In-depth Differences

If you’re in the market for new windows, you’ve probably come across two big names: Gerkin and Marvin. Both companies make high-end windows designed to make your home look great while also being energy efficient.

But which brand should you choose to get the best value for your home?

In this guide, we’ll compare Gerkin and Marvin windows side-by-side, looking at their key features, pros and cons, prices, warranties, and more.

With the right information, you can decide which of these premium window brands is the better option for your needs and budget.

A Brief Comparison Table

Comparison	Gerkin Windows	Marvin Windows
Frame Materials	Premium vinyl	Wood, fiberglass, aluminum
Glass Options	Double, triple pane	Double, triple pane
Energy Efficiency	Meet or exceed ENERGY STAR®	Meet or exceed ENERGY STAR®
U-Factor Range	0.27-0.30	0.16-0.27
Window Styles	Standard styles and sizes	Unlimited custom shapes and sizes
Hardware	Multi-point stainless steel	Upgraded finishes available
Warranty	Lifetime limited on vinyl and hardware, 20 years on glass	10 years manufacturing, 20 years glass
Price Range	$350 – $750 per window	$600 – $2,500+ per window
Customization	Limited sizes and options	Completely customizable
Maintenance	Low, vinyl is durable	Medium, wood needs staining
Aesthetic	Modern, sleek lines	Match any architectural style

Key Differences Between Gerkin and Marvin Windows

Though both Gerkin and Marvin are leading window manufacturers, there are some notable differences between their products:

• Materials: Gerkin uses premium vinyl frames while Marvin offers wood, fiberglass, and aluminum. Vinyl is low maintenance but wood offers a classic look.
• Styles: Marvin has a huge selection of shapes like circles, trapezoids, and unique architectural shapes. Gerkin has all the standard window styles but fewer specialty shapes.
• Customization: Marvin allows for unlimited customization for a true one-of-a-kind window. Gerkin has set sizes and options.
• Price: Marvin windows cost significantly more than Gerkin on average. However, Gerkin’s vinyl is still considered a premium window.
• Efficiency: Both brands offer excellent energy efficiency, with options like triple pane glass and low-E coatings.

So while both companies make great modern windows, Marvin offers greater design flexibility while Gerkin provides attractive vinyl windows at a lower cost.

Gerkin Windows Overview

Based in Iowa, Gerkin Windows and Doors manufactures vinyl replacement windows and patio doors. The company has over 50 years of experience making windows able to withstand the harsh Midwest climate.

Here are some key facts about Gerkin windows:

• Materials: Frames and sashes constructed from premium vinyl with fusion welded corners.
• Glass: Double or triple pane glass options with Cardinal LoE 366 coating to reduce heat/UV rays. Argon gas fill between panes.
• Efficiency: Gerkin windows meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® requirements. U-factors as low as 0.27 on triple pane glass.
• Styles: Casement, awning, sliding, double hung, bay, bow, garden, picture windows, and more.
• Hardware: Stainless steel hardware with multiple finish options.
• Screens: Full screens on operable windows with aluminum surround.
• Warranty: Lifetime limited warranty on vinyl and hardware, 20 years on glass.

Gerkin vinyl windows feature a sleek, contemporary design. Frames have a gentle bevel detail and dual-pane Low-E glass helps reflect heat. Triple pane glass offers even better efficiency for cold climates.

The brand offers all the main window styles and operates smoothly with a multi-point locking system. Overall, it’s a durable and energy efficient vinyl window made for low maintenance.

Marvin Windows Overview

Established in 1912, Marvin Windows and Doors provides custom-made windows for homeowners, architects, and builders seeking exceptional quality.

Here are the main features of Marvin windows:

• Materials: Wood, aluminum-clad wood, fiberglass, and aluminum frames. Ultrex fiberglass is scratch resistant.
• Glass: Double or triple pane with Low-E coatings, argon gas, and other high-performance glazings.
• Efficiency: Meets or exceeds ENERGY STAR® requirements. U-factors as low as 0.16 on triple pane glass.
• Styles: Every shape imaginable from circular to hexagonal bays, dramatic corner windows, and more.
• Hardware: Standard durable hardware with upgrade options in matte black, oil-rubbed bronze, satin nickel, and more.
• Screens: Retractable screens and heavy-duty fiberglass screen material.
• Warranty: 20 years on glass, 10 years on manufacturing materials/workmanship.

With state of the art glass and frame technologies combined with custom manufacturing, Marvin windows are some of the highest quality windows available. Their unparalleled selection allows you to perfectly match your home’s architecture and style.

Comparing Key Features of Gerkin And Marvin

Now that we’ve outlined the basics of each brand, let’s do a detailed comparison of some of the most important window features:

• Aesthetics

Gerkin: Vinyl windows from Gerkin have a minimalist, contemporary look perfect for modern homes. The vinyl frames have subtle beveled edges and sleek lines.

Marvin: With the ability to customize every detail, Marvin allows you to perfectly match existing architectural details or create dramatic new windows. Choose from traditional to contemporary styles.

Winner: Marvin offers greater aesthetic flexibility and customization.

• Window Frame Materials

Gerkin: Frames are made using thick, multi-chambered premium vinyl. This is heavy duty, durable, and energy efficient vinyl that’s resistant to weathering.

Marvin: Select wood, fiberglass, or aluminum frames. Wood provides a classic appearance but needs regular maintenance. Fiberglass offers the appearance of painted wood without the upkeep.

Winner: Draw – Vinyl vs. wood/fiberglass comes down to personal preference. Both are great options.

• Energy Efficiency

Gerkin: Meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® requirements with double or triple pane glass, LoE coatings, argon gas, insulating spacers, and weatherstripping. U-factors as low as 0.27.

Marvin: Also meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® standards with similar high-performance glazings and design features. Can achieve U-factors as low as 0.16 on triple pane glass.

Winner: Marvin by a slim margin based on the lowest potential U-factors.

• Hardware

Gerkin: Multi-point locking hardware made from stainless steel for corrosion resistance. Secure locking at several points along the window.

Marvin: Standard durable hardware with the option to upgrade to higher-end finishes like matte black, oil-rubbed bronze, satin nickel, and more.

Winner: Marvin for the upgraded hardware options.

• Warranties

Gerkin: Lifetime limited warranty on vinyl and hardware, 20 years on insulated glass units. Includes transferability.

Marvin: 20 years on glass, 10 years on manufacturing materials and workmanship. Transferable with limitations.

Winner: Gerkin offers a longer covering for the vinyl frames and insulated glass.

• Price

Gerkin: MSRP from $350-$750 per window depending on size, configuration, and options selected.

Marvin: MSRP from $600 on the low end for essential collection line, up to $2,500+ per window on ultimate collection. Significant customization costs extra.

Winner: Gerkin is the clear value winner with prices averaging 50% less per window.

Pros and Cons of Gerkin Windows

Gerkin Pros:

• Durable, low maintenance premium vinyl frames
• Energy efficient with double/triple pane glass
• Contemporary style matches modern homes
• Much more affordable than wood or fiberglass
• Good warranty on vinyl and insulated glass

Gerkin Cons:

• Less customization and specialty shapes
• No wood or fiberglass options
• Hardware has fewer finish choices
• Max U-factor not as low as some brands

Gerkin vinyl windows offer an excellent balance of quality, energy savings, and price. You get a high-performance window designed for low maintenance. Just don’t expect the total customization of a Marvin window.

Pros and Cons of Marvin Windows

Marvin Pros:

• Endless design flexibility for any home style
• Custom shapes like circles, trapezoids, etc.
• Exceptional energy efficiency with triple pane glass
• Can mimic wood details but with fiberglass or aluminum
• Upgraded hardware available in different finishes

Marvin Cons:

• Much higher cost than vinyl or other materials
• Wood windows require staining/painting
• Large custom shapes can increase cost
• Shorter warranties than some brands

If budget is no concern, Marvin offers a truly one-of-a-kind window made to your exact specifications. But you’ll pay a premium for that level of customization and top-tier materials.

Which Is Better For You?

So which of these premium window brands is better for your home remodeling or new construction project? Here are a few key factors to help you decide:

• Budget: If keeping costs down is important, Gerkin vinyl wins easily based on its significantly lower prices.
• Customization: Marvin offers near complete customization, while Gerkin has set sizes and fewer specialty shape options.
• Energy Efficiency: Both meet ENERGY STAR® standards. Marvin can achieve a lower U-factor but both offer excellent savings.
• Style: Gerkin has a contemporary vinyl aesthetic. Marvin allows matching any architectural style.
• Warranty: Gerkin provides better coverage on vinyl and glass but Marvin has strong warranties too.

For the best value, Gerkin vinyl windows are hard to beat. But if you want wood interiors, custom shapes, and premium details, Marvin windows may be worth the investment. Talk to local window contractors about each brand to find the right solution for your specific home.

Gerkin and Marvin Window Costs

Window pricing depends on the size, type, frame material, glass packages, and other custom options. Here are some average price ranges:

• Gerkin Windows: $350 – $750 per window
• Marvin Windows: $600 – $2,500+ per window

Yes, Marvin windows can cost over 3 times more than Gerkin! That’s because you’re getting fully customized windows vs. a standard vinyl product.

Here are some of the factors that increase costs for both brands:

• Larger window sizes
• Unique shapes like trapezoids or full circles
• Triple pane glass over double pane
• Upgraded hardware finishes
• Wood frames over vinyl or fiberglass
• Specialty glazings like tinted or patterned glass
• Motorized operation
• Architect approved offerings tailored to project

Talk to a supplier to get an accurate quote for your specific project requirements. Be sure to get warranties, lead times, and other purchasing terms in writing.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Looking for more details on Gerkin, Marvin, and other window brands? Here are answers to some common questions:

Final Thoughts

The quality and design of your windows make a huge impact on your home’s appearance and comfort. With their array of features, Gerkin and Marvin both offer stellar window solutions that increase efficiency while complementing your architecture.

Take some time to research each brand and chat with local window contractors. Together you can decide whether low maintenance vinyl or customizable wood provides the ideal design and value for your residential project.

With the right information and quality installation, you’ll enjoy your new windows for decades to come.