When it comes to replacement windows, Simonton is one of the most trusted names in the industry. Two of their most popular product lines are the Simonton 6200 and Simonton 6500 series.
But what’s the difference between these two models?
And how do you decide which is the right choice for your home? This comprehensive guide will compare the pros, cons, features, and performance of Simonton 6200 and 6500 windows so you can make an informed decision.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Simonton 6200 | Simonton 6500 |
| Frame Exterior | Vinyl | Vinyl |
| Frame Interior | Vinyl | Wood laminate |
| Glass Options | Clear, obscure, tempered, laminated | Clear, obscure, tempered, laminated |
| Frame Thickness | 3 1/4″ | 3 1/4″ |
| Weatherstripping | Fin seal | Fin seal, interlocking meeting rail |
| DP Rating | 50 | 50 |
| U-Factor | Up to 0.29 | Up to 0.28 |
| Warranty | Lifetime limited | Enhanced lifetime limited |
| Cost | $$$ | $$$$ |
Key Takeaways:
- The Simonton 6500 has a wood laminate interior for a richer, more natural aesthetic compared to the all-vinyl 6200.
- Both offer similar glass options and energy efficiency, but the 6500 may have slightly better thermal performance.
- The 6500 has an interlocking meeting rail for improved weather protection.
- The 6500 comes with an enhanced lifetime limited warranty versus just a standard lifetime limited for the 6200.
- On average, the Simonton 6500 costs 10-15% more than the 6200 due to the upgrades it offers.
- For most homeowners, the 6500 is the better overall choice if budget allows due to its upgrades in appearance, efficiency, and durability.
- However, the 6200 is still a quality affordable option if you want a basic vinyl replacement window.
Overview of Simonton 6200 Windows
The Simonton 6200 series is the company’s mid-range vinyl replacement window line. Here are some key facts about the 6200:
- Double hung and slider styles available
- Vinyl frames and sashes
- DuraSeal weatherstripping for insulation
- Intercept warm edge spacer system
- DP 50 rating for structural integrity
- Various glass options, including double pane with argon gas fill
- Available in white or tan exterior color
The 6200 series is designed to be an affordable, energy efficient solution for common replacement window needs.
While not as robust as Simonton’s professional series, the 6200 still outperforms most builder-grade windows.
Overview of Simonton 6500 Windows
The Simonton 6500 series represents the company’s premium vinyl replacement line. Here are some key features of the 6500:
- Casement, awning, double hung, and slider styles available
- ProShield vinyl frame material
- InsulKor multi-chambered frame design
- Triple pane glass options with triple Intercept warm edge spacers
- DP 60 structural rating for superior strength
- Specialty glass like privacy or noise reduction available
- Exterior color options include white, tan, driftwood
With advanced framing, weatherstripping, thicker glass, and other enhancements, the 6500 series is built to maximize energy efficiency and durability. It’s a great choice for a premium remodel project.
Comparing Key Factors: Simonton 6200 And 6500 Series Windows
Now let’s dive into a detailed comparison of some of the most important factors between the Simonton 6200 and Simonton 6500 window series:
- Frames and Materials
The 6200 series has a basic vinyl frame construction while the 6500 uses Simonton’s ProShield vinyl formulation. ProShield has additional insulation and thickness for improved structural stability.
It also has reinforcements at stress points for increased longevity.
- Glass Options
Both window lines offer double pane insulated glass units with argon gas fill and warm edge spacer technology. This improves thermal efficiency over traditional aluminum spacers.
However, the 6500 steps up with standard triple pane glass for even better insulation. It also has more choices like solar control or noise reduction glass.
- Weatherstripping and Seals
To prevent air and water infiltration, the 6200 series is equipped with DuraSeal weatherstripping made of thermoplastic vulcanate (TPV).
The 6500 ups the ante with RightTouch TPV weatherstripping that has fins to block wind and a pile for insulation. Triple weatherstripping around the sashes enhances the air seal.
- Structural Ratings
Simonton subjects all their windows to stringent tests for air and water infiltration, wind load resistance, forced entry, and more. The 6200 earns a DP 50 rating while the 6500 achives an even tougher DP 60 rating, the highest for vinyl windows. This demonstrates the 6500 series’ superior strength and durability.
- Appearance and Styles
Homeowners will find more options for operational styles and aesthetics with the Simonton 6500 series. Casement, awning, double hung, and slider styles are available in the 6500 line.
The options are more limited in the 6200 series. Both feature vinyl exteriors in white or tan. But the 6500 also adds a driftwood color not found in the 6200 line.
- Warranties
It’s important to read the fine print on warranties to understand what’s covered. The 6200 series comes with a limited lifetime warranty on vinyl and component materials and a 10 year glass coverage.
For the 6500 series, the coverage expands to a lifetime limited warranty on vinyl, glass, and components. The longer glass coverage demonstrates the 6500’s improved longevity.
Performance Comparison: Energy Efficiency
One of the biggest considerations for replacement windows is boosting energy efficiency. Let’s compare how the Simonton 6200 and 6500 series compare:
- Glass Options
The 6200 series offers double pane insulated glass units while the 6500 steps up to standard triple pane construction.
The additional pane further reduces heat transfer for better insulation.
- Gas Fills and Spacers
Both window lines feature argon gas filled gaps between glass panes to minimize heat conduction.
But the 6500also gains better thermal performance through triple pane construction and improved Intercept warm edge spacers.
- Weatherstripping
The 6200 windows have capable weatherstripping, but the 6500’s triple fin and pile weatherstripping cuts down on leaks even further. This enhances insulation properties.
- Air Infiltration
When tested to industry standards, the 6200 series achieves an air infiltration rating of .26 while the 6500 reaches .18. The lower numbers mean less outside air is leaking through, keeping interior spaces more comfortable.
- U-factor and SHGC Ratings
U-factor measures how well a window insulates against heat transfer, while SHGC shows how well it blocks heat gain from sunlight. The lower these ratings, the better the performance.
On average, the 6200 earns a .29 U-factor and .29 SHGC. For the 6500, performance steps up with a .27 U-factor and .28 SHGC rating.
Cost Comparison
In terms of affordability, the Simonton 6200 series definitely has an advantage. The 6200 windows sell for 25% to 30% less than the premium 6500 line, making them one of Simonton’s most competitively priced options.
The improved materials, engineering, and technology of the 6500 series does come at a higher initial investment.
However, the energy savings possible with the 6500 line’s superior efficiency may help offset costs overtime. And homeowners need to weigh affordability today against the 6500’s better durability, longevity, and performance.
Investing more upfront can pay off down the road if it reduces long term maintenance or replacement needs.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
The Simonton 6500 series is the company’s top-tier vinyl replacement window line. It’s built with premium features like triple pane glass, enhanced weatherstripping, and reinforced frames to provide maximum efficiency, durability, and structural integrity.
Simonton is consistently rated as one of the top window manufacturers in the country. Their products earn high ratings for quality, performance, and reliability from leading consumer testing groups. Simonton’s premium lines like the 6500 series are considered some of the best vinyl windows available today.
Yes, Simonton makes very high quality windows that can deliver great performance for efficiency, noise reduction, security, and overall comfort. They utilize advanced engineering and materials like multilayered vinyl frames and high tech glass packages. Simonton windows meet stringent industry testing standards as well.
Many Simonton windows do carry ENERGY STAR qualifications, including products in the 6200 and 6500 series lines. To earn the ENERGY STAR label, windows must meet independent testing requirements proving energy efficiency capabilities and proper insulation. Choosing ENERGY STAR rated Simonton windows is a great way to reduce energy costs while benefiting the environment.
Simonton 6200 And 6500: Which Is Right For You?
With all factors compared, which of these Simonton window series is the better choice?
For shoppers focused on affordability and simple retrofit projects, the Simonton 6200 makes an excellent choice. It delivers very good performance for the price point, combining energy efficiency upgrades and reliable construction.
Homeowners doing a few windows at a time on a budget will find a lot of value in the 6200 series.
For whole house window replacements or premium renovations, the Simonton 6500 is worth the investment. The upgraded materials, improved insulation, and broader style options make the 6500 a great solution for those who prioritize energy savings, performance, and longevity.
If you want the best-in-class windows for comfort and efficiency, the 6500 series is the way to go.
