If you’re in the market for new windows, you’ve probably come across two big names: Green World Windows and Milgard. Both companies make high-quality windows, but they have some key differences that you should consider before making a purchase.
This comprehensive guide will compare Green World and Milgard windows across a variety of factors, so you can determine which is the better choice for your home.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Green World Windows | Milgard Windows |
| Frame Materials | Vinyl, wood, aluminum, fiberglass | Vinyl, fiberglass, aluminum-clad wood |
| Energy Efficiency | Many ENERGY STAR options available | Entire product line meets or exceeds ENERGY STAR standards |
| Glass Options | Low-E, argon/krypton gas, triple pane. Specialty glass like self-cleaning and scratch-resistant available | Proprietary SunCoat and SunCoatMAX low-E glass, argon/krypton gas, triple pane |
| Window Styles | Double hung, casement, sliding, awning, bay, bow, garden, custom shapes | Same styles available as Green World |
| Screen Options | Fiberglass, aluminum, pet-resistant, solar shade | Premium fiberglass. Upgrades to SolarMesh and UltraMesh |
| Hardware Finishes | Many finishes – white, tan, bronze, nickel, oil rubbed bronze, brass | More limited – white, tan, black, brass, matte black |
| Grid Options | Variety of patterns and divided lite styles | Focus on clean, narrowline grids |
| Color Options | Many standard vinyl colors. Wide selection of aluminum-clad colors | Primarily white, tan, black vinyl and fiberglass colors |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime. Glass coverage extra | Full lifetime. Glass breakage included |
| Availability | Direct or through regional dealers | Certified national dealer network |
| Price | Mid-range. Lower cost vinyl and wood options | Mid-range. Higher prices on top-tier products |
Overview of Green World Windows
Founded in 1977, Green World Windows is a family-owned company based in North Dakota. They manufacture a wide range of window styles, including double hung, casement, awning, sliding, bay, bow, garden, and more. Some of the key features of Green World Windows include:
- Variety of frame materials – vinyl, wood, aluminum, fiberglass
- ENERGY STAR certified options available
- Limited lifetime warranty on vinyl and wood windows
- Numerous color and grid options to match your home’s style
- Made in the USA
Green World is known for making customizable, high-performance windows at relatively affordable prices.
They focus heavily on energy efficiency and noise reduction. The company has also invested significantly in improving its vinyl window technology over the years.
Overview of Milgard Windows
Milgard Windows & Doors is based in Washington state and has been in business since 1962. They offer vinyl, fiberglass, and wood windows and patio doors. Some notable features of Milgard products are:
- Proprietary fiberglass and vinyl formulas for strength and durability
- Variety of energy-efficient glass options, including triple pane
- Full Lifetime Warranty with Glass Breakage Coverage
- Metal reinforcements for improved security
- Expansive selection of stock and custom sizes
Milgard specializes in making durable, long-lasting windows able to withstand tough weather conditions. They have a strong focus on quality control and technology innovation. Milgard was one of the first companies to use fiberglass as a window frame material.
In-depth Differences Between Green World And Milgard Windows
Frame Materials
One of the biggest differences between Green World and Milgard is the variety of frame materials they offer.
Green World makes windows with vinyl, wood, aluminum, and fiberglass frames.
Their vinyl line includes premium vinyl that has metal reinforcements for increased structural stability.
For wood windows, they use pine, maple, and oak.
Their aluminum-clad wood windows combine the beauty of real wood with the durability of aluminum exteriors.
Fiberglass makes up a relatively small part of their offerings.
Milgard, on the other hand, puts more emphasis on patented fiberglass and vinyl formulas. They use premium vinyl that resists fading and warping.
Milgard was an early pioneer in using fiberglass for home windows because of its strength, durability, and natural insulation properties. They still offer some aluminum-clad wood options but no windows with all-wood frames.
So in terms of materials, Green World provides more choices while Milgard focuses on quality vinyl and fiberglass.
Energy Efficiency
Energy efficiency is a major consideration for new windows. Replacing old, inefficient windows with new ENERGY STAR-rated ones can save you money on energy bills and make your home more comfortable.
Both Green World and Milgard offer windows that meet or exceed ENERGY STAR standards. Some key points:
- Green World – Most of their double hung, sliding, casement, and awning windows can get ENERGY STAR certification. They use technologies like low-E glass, argon gas, and foam insulation to improve efficiency.
- Milgard – All Milgard windows can meet ENERGY STAR requirements. Even their basic vinyl series has energy-saving features. They use multiple layers of low-E coatings and argon or krypton gas. Their top-tier fiberglass triple pane windows are very energy efficient.
When comparing same-style windows, Milgard may offer better thermal performance overall. But Green World still produces many energy-efficient options. Your energy savings will also depend on the specific glass packages you choose.
Glass Options
The type of glass used in windows plays a big role in energy efficiency, durability, clarity, and more.
Green World and Milgard both offer:
- Double pane glass with basic low-E coatings
- Advanced low-E coatings that better block UV rays
- Argon or krypton gas between panes for increased insulation
- Triple pane glass for maximum efficiency
Unique to Milgard is their proprietary SunCoat or SunCoatMAX glass. It has ‘spectral selective’ coatings to block specific light wavelengths while letting visible light pass through. This improves solar control and insulation. Milgard also uses premium SmartTouch spacer bars between glass panes to reduce condensation.
Green World offers some low-maintenance glass options not found with Milgard. These include self-cleaning glass that breaks down dirt with UV light and scratch-resistant glass.
So Milgard wins on advanced proprietary glass while Green World provides some unique specialty glass products.
Window Styles
No matter what style windows you need for your home, both Green World and Milgard have you covered.
Here are some of the most popular window types they manufacture:
- Double hung – Green World and Milgard both offer classic double hung windows with two sashes that slide up and down. Good option for traditional looks and ventilation.
- Casement – Side-hinged windows that open outward. Available from both companies. Casements maximize glass exposure.
- Sliding – Another classic style where one window sash slides horizontally past the other. Green World and Milgard sliding windows promote a sense of openness.
- Awning – These windows are hinged at the top and open outward. Provide ventilation while protecting from the rain. Offered by both brands.
- Bay and Bow – Combine multiple window units together into one curved bay or bow window. Green World and Milgard do custom bay and bow configurations.
- Garden windows – Mini versions of bay windows with an angled bottom that protrudes outward. Give you built-in space for plants. Manufactured by both companies.
- Custom shapes – For unique windows and architectural designs, both Green World and Milgard can fabricate custom geometry windows.
Overall, Green World and Milgard are evenly matched when it comes to window styles and options. They can both deliver classic and contemporary looks.
Screen Options
Quality window screens keep bugs out while letting in fresh air. Here are some differences in how Green World and Milgard handle screens:
- Green World – Offers fiberglass screen mesh as their standard. Also available with aluminum mesh, pet-resistant screen, and solar shade screen. Lots of spline color options.
- Milgard – Uses premium fiberglass mesh on most windows. Upgrades available to heavier SolarMesh or see-through UltraMesh. Fewer color options for spline/frame.
- Screen mounting – Green World has traditional exterior mounting. Milgard designed their SmartTouch push-slide system for easy screen removal from inside.
So Green World provides more types of screening materials while Milgard focuses on heavy-duty fiberglass with their unique interior slide mount.
Hardware Finishes
The handles, hinges, locks, and other hardware on your windows should coordinate with your home’s aesthetics. Here are some of the differences between the two brands:
- Green World – Broad selection of hardware finishes – classic white, tan, brown, oil-rubbed bronze, satin nickel, and black. Upgrades to champagne or brass finishes available.
- Milgard – More limited standard finishes of white, tan, or black. Upgrades to either brass or contemporary matte black.
- Hardware quality – Both use quality hardware backed by multi-point locking mechanisms for security. Green World has more decorative handle options while Milgard’s is more streamlined.
If you want hardware that perfectly matches your home decor, Green World is likely the better choice. Milgard hardware is more subtle and standardized across their window lines.
Grid Options
Interior window grids add visual interest and can match architectural designs. Green World and Milgard take slightly different approaches with grids:
- Green World – Many grid patterns like prairie, diamond, cascade, and double prairie. Choose flat, sculptured, or simulated divided lite grids. Various grid widths available.
- Milgard – More limited grid patterns and widths. Focus on their narrowline grids for a consistent clean appearance. Flat, sculptured, and divided lite grids offered.
- Grid materials – Both use aluminum grids between glass panes. This prevents dust buildup. Green World has optional wood grids.
Overall, Green World delivers more possibilities for unique grid layouts and decorative divided lite grids. Milgard grids favor a clean, understated style.
Color Options
How windows blend in with your home’s exterior depends on the frame colors. Green World and Milgard have their color palettes:
- Green World – Vinyl windows in white, beige, tan, clay, bronze, gray, black, woodgrain finishes, and more. Aluminum-clad in over a dozen pottery, nature, and historic colors.
- Milgard – Vinyl and fiberglass windows primarily in white, tan, or black exteriors. Some additional colors like clay, silver, and bronze available regionally.
- Custom colors – Both companies can do custom matching to any color. Added cost and lead time.
Green World undoubtedly provides more standard exterior colors to coordinate with different architectural styles. Milgard colors favor versatility and broad appeal.
Warranties
When you invest in new windows, you want the peace of mind that they’re backed by a strong warranty. Here’s how Green World and Milgard compare:
- Green World
- Limited lifetime warranty on vinyl and wood windows
- 20 years on aluminum windows
- Covers defects, materials, and workmanship
- 5 years glass coverage
- Milgard
- Full lifetime warranty
- Includes coverage for glass breakage
- Transferable for lifetime of product
- Materials and workmanship defects covered
The warranties are similar but Milgard extends lifetime coverage to glass breakage, an add-on for Green World. Overall, Milgard offers one of the strongest warranties in the industry.
Availability
Where you can buy Green World vs. Milgard windows also differs:
- Green World – Direct to consumer sales. Purchase online or through one of their local dealers. Limited to western/central states.
- Milgard – Sells direct online but primary channel is through certified dealers nationwide. Find more options and installers due to broader availability.
Milgard will simply be an option for more homeowners based on their expansive dealer network and nationwide operations. Green World serves select regions very well.
Pricing
In terms of cost, both Green World and Milgard windows are considered mid-range. Here are some pricing notes:
- Green World – Lower prices on vinyl and clad wood windows. Higher-end designs cost more. Bundled packages with big discounts available.
- Milgard -bit lower3-lite, triple pane fiberglass units. More premium products overall. Generally 10-15% higher than comparable Green World windows.
- Promos – Both run seasonal sales promotions. Milgard tends to offer bigger dollar-value rebates but for limited times.
- Value – You get a good balance of quality and reasonable pricing from both brands. Green World prices can be slightly more budget-friendly for basic models.
As with any major purchase, be sure to get quotes for your exact window needs to compare pricing accurately. The overall value is strong for both Green World and Milgard.
Installation Process
A big part of your window replacement experience will be the installation itself. Here are some insights into the process:
- Green World – Network of third-party installers. Work with sales rep to find preferred installer for your area.
- Milgard – Certified factory-trained dealers take care of replacement. Often more experienced specialized installers.
- Process – Professional install typically takes 1-2 days. Expect careful property protection and clean-up.
- Warranty – Installation guaranteed for defects by window brands, not installers.
While the processes are similar, Milgard’s certified dealer network may provide an edge in installation quality. However, both brands work hard to ensure a smooth and effective window replacement process overall.
Is Anderson or Milgard better?
This is a common question, since Anderson and Milgard are two of the biggest window manufacturers. When comparing these brands:
- Milgard vinyl and fiberglass windows have better thermal efficiency with Quad and Triplepane designs. Anderson 400 Series fibrex windows are also energy efficient.
- For wood windows, Anderson offers more authentic wood options while Milgard mostly uses fiberglass exteriors.
- Milgard has more limited style options but very durable windows. Anderson provides more customization.
- Warranties are similar – both lifetime coverage with additional glass protection.
- Milgard prices are generally lower for comparable window models.
Overall, Milgard is considered a slight winner over Anderson in terms of better energy performance, durability, and warranty for the price. But Anderson also makes quality windows, known for custom wood products.
Is Milgard A Good Quality?
Milgard is widely regarded as a very good quality window brand. Specific benefits that make Milgard one of the best include:
- Proprietary vinyl and fibrex materials resist weathering, impact, and wear/tear over the long term.
- Milgard designs its windows to be energy efficient using advanced glazing, gas fills and weatherstripping.
- Durable construction with full metal reinforcement for security and stability.
- All Milgard windows get extensive testing and quality checks before leaving factories.
- Full lifetime warranty including glass breakage coverage on defects.
Milgard has built a reputation over 50+ years for making long-lasting windows. They remain at the forefront of window technology and innovation. Overall, the quality is excellent.
Are Pella or Milgard windows better?
Pella and Milgard both make premium quality windows, but there are a few key differences:
- Pella offers an aluminum-clad wood line while Milgard uses fibrex composite material. Pella wood windows are very attractive.
- Milgard has more triple pane options for thermal efficiency. Their basic vinyl units already meet ENERGY STAR® standards.
- Warranties are similar but Pella’s lifetime coverage is prorated after 20 years. Milgard has full lifetime warranty.
- Milgard windows tend to be more affordable at lower price points. Pella competes more with Andersen.
Overall, Milgard emerges as the winner for its combination of energy efficiency, durable vinyl/fibrex construction, and lower cost. But Pella makes gorgeous wood windows unmatched in appearance. It depends on your priorities.
Does Milgard make good windows?
Milgard is widely considered one of the best national window brands. Here are some reasons why Milgard windows stand out for quality:
- Their proprietary vinyl and fibrex materials minimize expansion and contraction through temperature changes. This results in improved durability and weather-tight seals.
- Milgard designs all their window units for energy efficiency. Even affordable options use dual or triple pane glass with premium weatherstripping.
- Durable fiberglass mesh screens keep out bugs while letting in natural light and fresh air. Easy to remove from the interior too.
- Full lifetime warranty plus coverage of glass breakage provides peace of mind. They stand behind their products.
- Sophisticated manufacturing standards and rigorous testing at their own facilities ensures consistent quality.
With over 50 years experience making windows for tough climates, Milgard has demonstrated their ability to engineer high-performing and reliable windows. Overall, they are among the best quality residential window brands available today.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
When comparing these two leading brands, Milgard windows are often considered slightly better overall thanks to superior energy efficiency, durable construction, and competitive pricing. But Anderson makes quality wood windows unparalleled for beauty.
Yes, Milgard is widely regarded as a very good quality window brand. Their proprietary materials, energy-efficient designs, extensive testing procedures, and lifetime warranties make them one of the best.
It’s a close call, but Milgard windows edge out Pella overall for better energy performance, durable vinyl and fibrex materials, and more affordable prices. But Pella makes gorgeous wood windows.
Absolutely. Milgard makes exceptionally durable, energy-efficient vinyl and fibrex windows built to last for decades. Their rigorous quality control and lifetime warranties show they stand behind their products. Milgard is considered a top window manufacturer.
Final Thoughts
When comparing Green World and Milgard windows, both brands make high-quality products but with some notable differences. Green World offers more frame material choices like wood and more color and grid options for customization.
Their prices can be more budget-friendly. Milgard features premium proprietary fiberglass and vinyl for unparalleled durability. They focus on energy efficiency across all products. Milgard also provides a stronger lifetime warranty and expansive national dealer network.
For most homeowners, Milgard edges out Green World for better materials, energy savings, and warranty value. But Green World excels at traditional style and customization flexibility at lower price points in their regional markets.