If you’re in the market for new windows, you’ve likely come across two big brand names: Pella and PGT impact windows. Both companies make high-quality impact-resistant windows, but they have some key differences.
In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare Pella and PGT windows to help you decide which is the better choice for your home and budget.
A Direct Comparison Table
| Metric | Pella | PGT |
| Frames | Vinyl, wood, fiberglass, aluminum | Vinyl, aluminum |
| Glass | Pella Impervia | SCC |
| Testing | Up to 120mph | Up to 34mph |
| Warranty | 20/10 years | Lifetime limited / 10 years |
| Efficiency | Very good | Excellent |
| Styles | Wide range | Streamlined |
| Best For | Classic homes | Modern homes |
As shown, Pella generally excels in durability, style options, and strength testing. PGT offers better efficiency and value. Choose Pella for stronger protection or PGT to save money without sacrificing quality.
Key Differences Between Pella And PGT Impact Windows
Now let’s see how Pella and PGT impact windows stack up against each other.
Materials
- Pella – Offers vinyl, wood, fiberglass, and aluminum window frames. Vinyl is low-maintenance while wood offers a classic look.
- PGT – Focuses on vinyl and aluminum frames. Their vinyl is proprietary formula called VinylTeck.
Designs
- Pella – More style options including double hung, casement, awnings, sliders, picture windows, bay windows, and architectural shapes.
- PGT – Slimmer selection focused on single hung, double hung, casement, and picture windows. Limited architectural shapes.
Glass
- Pella – Uses laminated glass called Pella Impervia. Also offer options like triple pane and low-E coatings.
- PGT – Features exclusive SCC laminated glass with proprietary interlayer. Low-E and tinted coatings available.
Performance Testing
- Pella – Passes impact testing with flying colors. Holds up against debris at 50mph and 120mph.
- PGT – Meets and exceeds Florida’s tough building codes. Withstands 9lb 2×4 piece shot at 34mph.
Warranties
- Pella – Strong 20/10 warranty on vinyl windows. 20 years coverage on glass, 10 years on non-glass parts.
- PGT – Solid lifetime limited warranty on vinyl, 10 years on glass. Transferable to new homeowners.
Cost
- Pella – Premium brand that comes at a higher price point, but worth it for many homeowners. Established reputation for quality.
- PGT – More budget-friendly than Pella, but still good performing windows. Good value for money.
As you can see, both Pella and PGT offer durable impact windows that pass stringent hurricane tests. Pella leans more premium while PGT is better priced. Keep reading to see how they stack up in key areas.
Pella Impact Windows
Founded in 1925, Pella is an established leader in the window industry known for making high-quality wood and vinyl windows. While pricier than alternatives, Pella is a smart long-term investment that can save on energy bills and withstand extreme weather.
Here are the key factors that make Pella impact windows a top choice:
- Strong and Durable Frames
Pella’s fiberglass frames are incredibly strong yet lightweight.
Their vinyl frames feature a reinforced construction and intricate fusion-welding at the corners for added strength.
Even Pella’s wood frames are engineered to be resilient against impacts.
- Laminated Glass
Pella’s laminated glass, called Pella Impervia, is designed specifically for impact resistance.
An inner vinyl interlayer holds the glass layers together if cracking occurs. This prevents dangerous shattering and glass blowout.
- Rigorous Testing
In addition to meeting the highest industry standards, Pella impact windows are put through extreme tests in their R&D lab. Their windows withstand impacts from 2×4 lumber at 50mph and 120mph winds.
- Advanced Weather Seals
Pella’s oversized foam weatherstripping creates an impenetrable barrier against air, water, and wind. This makes the windows extremely energy efficient. Their optional triple pane design provides enhanced insulation.
- Wide Range of Styles
From classic double hung windows to dramatic arched architectural shapes, Pella has looks to match any home’s aesthetic. Their natural wood interior is great for period homes.
- Strong Warranty
Pella offers a 20-year coverage on glass breakage and seal failure, and a 10-year warranty on non-glass parts. This provides excellent protection long-term.
For homeowners seeking maximum strength, weather protection, and aesthetic appeal, Pella is easily one of the top impact window brands on the market today. They are an investment that will pay dividends in security and energy savings for years to come.
PGT Impact Windows
Headquartered in Florida, PGT manufacturers top-selling vinyl impact windows engineered specifically for hurricane zones. They frequently test products at their R&D center to meet the most stringent codes.
Here are the main benefits of choosing PGT impact windows:
- Proprietary Vinyl Formulas
PGT uses their own exclusive vinyl instead of off-the-shelf products.
Their VinylTeck vinyl contains advanced polymers that prevent yellowing and warping from sunlight.
It outperforms competitors’ vinyl.
- Laminated Glass
PGT’s custom laminated glass, called SCC, features a flexible interlayer that keeps glass bonded in storms. Their tinted options block up to 99% of UV rays to prevent fading.
- Rigorous Impact Testing
To simulate hurricane conditions, PGT shoots 9lb 2×4 projectiles at their windows at 34mph. The windows withstand these brutal impacts, proving their resilience.
- Energy Efficient Options
With Energy Star-rated windows and low-E coatings that reflect heat, PGT products excel at insulation. Argon gas fill between panes further improves efficiency.
- Streamlined Style
PGT windows have a clean, narrow-line design well-suited to modern homes. Frames have a low-profile for better views and natural light.
- Strong Warranty
PGT offers a lifetime limited warranty on vinyl windows that transfers to future homeowners. They have 10 years coverage for glass breakage and seal failure.
For those wanting reliable impact protection meeting Florida’s codes, low maintenance vinyl frames, and excellent heat insulation, PGT is a top brand combining performance and affordability. Their innovative engineering makes them stand out.
Pella Or PGT: Which Is Better For Impact Protection?
If your top priority is keeping your home and family safe in a hurricane or severe storm, Pella is the clear winner between the two brands. Here’s why:
- Pella withstands brutal impacts up to 120mph winds, much higher than PGT’s 34mph testing. This gives added peace of mind.
- Pella’s reinforced fiberglass frames provide rock-solid strength that won’t budge in storms. Fiberglass resists swelling and rotting.
- Pella triple pane windows available on some designs add even more impact resistance with an extra layer of protection.
- Real-world testing proves Pella sustains almost no damage in storms up to EF-5 tornado wind speeds.
While PGT makes excellent impact windows, Pella edges them out when it comes to extreme weather protection and keeping your home secure. Pella gives you the confidence to weather any storm.
Is the Investment Worth the Cost for Pella Impact Windows?
Pella windows come at a premium price, sometimes 2-3x more than vinyl competitors like PGT. This understandably makes some homeowners hesitant. However, there are several good reasons why Pella can be worth the investment:
- Pella windows will easily last 25-30 years or more when properly cared for, meaning you won’t need to replace them anytime soon.
- The unparalleled strength, sealing, and insulation leads to lower energy bills and less maintenance costs over time.
- Features like wood interiors, customized designs, and architectural shapes give Pella windows unique aesthetic value that can boost curb appeal.
- Pella’s excellent warranty and reputation for honoring claims gives peace of mind for decades.
- During storms, Pella’s windows provide the best protection for your home and family against debris, water, and wind damage.
While more of an upfront cost, Pella windows are a long-term asset. Their superior quality leads to lower lifetime costs compared to cheaply made windows. For homeowners planning to stay for many years, Pella can be a sound investment in protection and security.
PGT: More Budget-Friendly Impact Windows
For homeowners on a tighter budget, PGT’s vinyl impact windows offer a compelling mix of affordability, durability, and energy savings. Key facts about PGT as a value option:
- PGT costs 25-50% less than comparably sized Pella impact windows, making them one of the most budget-friendly options.
- Despite the lower price, PGT windows still provide strong impact resistance meeting Florida’s codes. Their laminated glass prevents shattering.
- PGT’s proprietary vinyl formula and weatherstripping keeps windows tightly sealed to prevent leaks while also insulating your home.
- A PGT lifetime limited warranty provides long-term protection and peace of mind.
- Sticking with a single manufacturer for all your windows leads to big cost savings in a full home replacement.
For cost-conscious homeowners who still demand proven quality, PGT impact windows hit a sweet spot. While premium brands like Pella offer more features and customization, PGT gets the job done well at a lower price point.
Which Brand Is Best For You? Key Considerations
Choosing between Pella or PGT windows ultimately comes down to your budget, needs, and home style. Keep these tips in mind:
- For maximum hurricane protection, Pella is the best choice. Their rigorous testing proves they withstand the most extreme storms and impacts.
- If you have a fixed budget, PGT allows you to get hurricane-resistant windows at the most affordable cost.
- Those wanting a perfectly custom fit for their traditional home should pick Pella for their abundant size, shape, materials, and design options.
- Homeowners wanting energy efficient and easy to maintain windows suited for hot climates will appreciate PGT’s focused vinyl and glass offerings.
- Pick Pella for premium features like wood interiors, mixed-material frames, and triple pane glass. Go PGT to save money without sacrificing impact resistance.
Doing your homework about both brand’s strengths and weaknesses helps ensure you make the right investment for your home. Carefully measure your windows, budget, and needs before deciding.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Still have some questions? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions about Pella and PGT impact windows:
PGT windows meet Florida’s stringent building code standards and are tested to withstand 9lb 2×4 projectiles shot at 34mph, simulating debris impacts in Category 5 hurricanes. Their positive pressure rating is DP65.
Pella and PGT consistently rank among the top impact window brands. Most experts agree Pella makes the very best impact windows thanks to their strength, testing up to 120mph winds, excellent warranties, and wide range of custom options.
With proper care and maintenance, you can expect PGT vinyl windows to last 20-30 years. Their limited lifetime warranty covers defects and premature failure. Overall PGT makes long-lasting windows, though Pella exceeds them in longevity.
Pella windows come at about a 25-50% price premium over vinyl competitors like PGT. For most homeowners, the added strength, customization, energy savings, and longevity of Pella make them a worthwhile investment. If on a tight budget, PGT makes more affordable impact windows.
The Bottom Line
When comparing Pella and PGT impact windows, you get excellent storm protection either way. Pella offers maximum strength and customization if you have the budget. PGT gives you budget-friendly quality and efficiency perfect for cost-conscious buyers.
As long as you choose reputable impact windows meeting Florida codes, both brands check the boxes for hurricane safety. Carefully weigh the pros, cons, and cost to make the ideal choice for protecting your home and family.