If you’re in the market for new windows, you’ve probably come across the names Simonton and Milgard. Both companies make premium vinyl windows designed to improve your home’s energy efficiency, noise reduction, security, and curb appeal.
But how do their top-tier window lines, Simonton DaylightMax and Milgard Trinsic, actually compare?
As a homeowner, you want windows that are durable, long-lasting, and a good value for the money. You also want windows that are specifically engineered for your local climate.
I’ll compare the key features of Simonton DaylightMax and Milgard Trinsic windows to help you decide which is best for your home and budget.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Simonton DaylightMax | Milgard Trinsic |
| Glass | Triple-pane with ThermalStar coating | Triple-pane with Tuscany glass |
| Energy Efficiency | Meets or exceeds ENERGY STAR | Exceeds ENERGY STAR by 5-15% |
| Warranty | Lifetime limited | Full lifetime warranty |
| Security | Anti-lift blocks, laminated glass options | Reinforced frames, custom locks |
| Noise Reduction | Triple glazing provides excellent noise dampening | Triple glazing provides excellent noise dampening |
| Styles | Various operating types, classic to contemporary | Various operating types, contemporary styling |
| Manufacturing | Made in USA | Made in USA |
Simonton DaylightMax Overview
Simonton Windows is based in Tennessee and makes a wide range of vinyl windows and doors. The DaylightMax line represents Simonton’s top-tier window series designed for exceptional performance and energy savings.
Key features of Simonton DaylightMax windows:
- Triple-pane glass with three panes of glass and two air spaces for excellent insulation
- Advanced Super Spacer warm edge technology prevents condensation and heat loss
- Meets or exceeds ENERGY STAR requirements in all climate zones
- Multiple frame types: double hung, sliding, casement, awning, picture windows, etc.
- Lifetime limited warranty on vinyl and glass components
- Variety of interior and exterior color options
- Made in the USA
Simonton touts the DaylightMax series as its most energy efficient line of windows. The triple glazing and advanced spacer technology enable them to block heat loss, reduce solar heat gain, and muffle outside noise.
Available coatings also boost efficiency – for example, DaylightMax windows can be configured with a ThermalStar coating to reflect infrared heat.
In terms of appearance, DaylightMax windows come in standard exterior colors like white, tan, and clay as well as custom colors. Interior woodgrain laminates give the windows a natural look from the inside.
Milgard Trinsic Overview
Milgard is based in Washington state and produces fiberglass and vinyl windows and doors. The Trinsic series is Milgard’s newest premium vinyl window line, marketed as having a sleek, contemporary style.
Here are the main features of Milgard Trinsic windows:
- Triple-pane glass with two air spaces for insulation
- Proprietary Tuscany glass technology for strength and energy control
- Exceeds ENERGY STAR requirements in all climate zones
- Frame styles: double hung, casement, awning, sliders, picture windows
- Full lifetime warranty including parts and labor
- Built with durable vinyl resins to prevent warping
- Variety of exterior finishes and interior laminate options
- Manufactured in the USA
Like the Simonton DaylightMax series, Milgard Trinsic windows are triple-glazed for optimal insulation and are ENERGY STAR certified. The triple pane glass features Tuscany glass technology – Milgard’s strongest, clearest glass.
Trinsic windows come in standard vinyl colors like white and sand as well as five premium colors. Interior finishes include natural wood laminates and solid vinyl colors. The contemporary frame profile and slim sightlines aim to modernize the look of any home.
Comparing Energy Efficiency
A key consideration for most homeowners is energy efficiency – you want windows that will provide superior insulation. Both Simonton DaylightMax and Milgard Trinsic windows are designed to minimize air leakage and heat transfer.
The triple-pane glass with two air spaces enables both window lines to meet or surpass ENERGY STAR requirements in all climate zones. This means they meet strict standards for U-factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) to block drafts and regulate heat gain.
In terms of glass technology, Milgard uses their premium Tuscany glass while Simonton utilizes a ThermalStar coating to reflect heat. Both are effective at controlling temperature transfer.
It’s worth noting that Trinsic windows exceed ENERGY STAR standards by about 5-15% depending on the climate zone. But realistically, either of these window lines will provide excellent overall thermal performance for energy savings and comfort.
How They Compare For Noise Reduction?
In addition to energy efficiency, homeowners often shop for new windows to reduce outside noise. Double hung windows tend to be more prone to air and sound infiltration.
Triple-pane glass helps dampen noise regardless of window style. The additional air space acts as a buffer zone to quiet outside sounds.
Both Simonton and Milgard use quality vinyl materials engineered to be strong, rigid, and long-lasting. Their premium window lines move smoothly when opening to prevent rattling. Tight weatherstripping also cuts down on drafts and whistling.
Overall, both DaylightMax and Trinsic deliver substantial noise reduction thanks to the combination of triple glazing, sturdy vinyl construction, and improved weather seals.
Security Features
Security is another key consideration – windows are often the most vulnerable access point into a home.
Simonton DaylightMax windows can be configured with laminated or tempered glass for extra strength against intruders or severe weather. Their double hung windows use an anti-lift feature to prevent criminals from raising the bottom sash.
Milgard Trinsic windows offer similar security benefits. They use custom strong locks and metal reinforcement for forced entry resistance. The triple pane glass itself provides a deterrent against break-ins.
Both window lines can also be outfitted with aftermarket security features like window sensors. But in terms of built-in security, Simonton and Milgard are fairly comparable.
Style and Design Options
Windows make up a large part of your home’s exterior, so their appearance is important for curb appeal.
Both Simonton and Milgard offer style flexibility with a range of operating types – single hung, double hung, slider, picture, awning, casement, specialty shapes, etc. This allows you to match existing window layouts or create a new look.
In terms of material, these are both vinyl window product lines. Vinyl is attractive, durable, and resists dents and corrosion. Both companies use quality vinyl compounds and manufacturing methods to prevent sagging, warping, shrinkage, and color fading.
Beyond the vinyl itself, these brands offer various exterior color options from standard white to specialty hues like brick red. Interior laminates provide a natural wood look or sleek solid color.
Milgard Trinsic windows tend to have a more contemporary, elegant profile. But Simonton DaylightMax offers classic lines and architectural styling as well. Ultimately, both deliver ample aesthetic options to suit your home.
Warranties and Customer Support
The warranty coverage is a significant differentiator between these high-end vinyl window lines.
Simonton DaylightMax Warranty:
- Lifetime limited warranty on vinyl, glass, and components
- 10-year coverage for manufacturing defects
Milgard Trinsic Warranty:
- Full lifetime warranty including parts and labor (not just limited)
- Coverage for as long as you own your home
Milgard provides better assurance with their comprehensive lifetime warranty. If issues arise at any point with materials or manufacturing, Milgard promises to provide replacement parts or even entire new windows.
Both brands offer decent customer service resources online and have generally positive reputations. However, Milgard’s lifetime coverage makes their product warranty more reassuring.
Cost Comparison
When it comes to actual window pricing, costs can vary based on your specific window sizes, unique installation requirements, and your geographic location.
As premium triple-pane vinyl windows, both Simonton DaylightMax and Milgard Trinsic fall into a mid-range to high price point.
Pricing estimates:
Simonton DaylightMax:
- Double hung windows: $350 – $700 per window installed
- Sliding windows: $500 – $1,000 installed
- Picture windows: $800+ installed
Milgard Trinsic:
- Double hung windows: $600 – $1,000 installed
- Sliding windows: $800 – $1,200 installed
- Picture windows: $1,000+ installed
Milgard Trinsic windows tend to cost more upfront. But over the lifetime of your home, the higher quality components and lifetime warranty can pay off in the long run.
Ultimately, investing more in your windows now can save money on energy bills and repairs down the road. It’s ideal to get quotes from various local window dealers to compare pricing for each model.
Main Considerations When Choosing
To recap the key points:
- Performance – Both offer triple-pane glass, meet ENERGY STAR requirements, insulate well, and reduce noise. Milgard may exceed ENERGY STAR by a small percentage.
- Features – They’re comparable for security, styles, and customization options. Both use quality vinyl construction.
- Warranty – Milgard Trinsic has a more comprehensive lifetime warranty covering entire window replacement.
- Price – Milgard costs more upfront but the investment can pay off long-term. Get quotes for total installed cost.
While Milgard Trinsic windows have a slight edge in a few categories, both are excellent options that will enhance your home for years to come. Be sure to order accurate window measurements and install using a professional for ideal performance.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Simonton and Milgard are two leading U.S. window manufacturers that make premium vinyl windows. Their top lines, Simonton DaylightMax and Milgard Trinsic, are both triple-pane but they differ somewhat in glass technology, warranties, price, and contemporary vs. traditional style.
Simonton is a respected brand that makes midrange to high-end window products. Their DaylightMax line ranks as a top vinyl window choice for energy efficiency and features. It’s comparable to Milgard’s Trinsic series.
Yes, Milgard Trinsic windows meet or exceed ENERGY STAR requirements in all U.S. climate zones thanks to triple-pane glass, argon gas, and thermally optimized frame. They’re 5-15% better than minimum ENERGY STAR standards.
Milgard Trinsic is a premium triple-pane vinyl window series made by Milgard. It’s very energy efficient and has contemporary narrow frame styling. Trinsic has a full lifetime warranty including parts and labor.
Final Thoughts
Both Simonton DaylightMax and Milgard Trinsic represent premium triple-pane vinyl window options that offer homeowners superior energy efficiency, noise reduction, security, and style choices.
Key factors to consider are the comprehensive lifetime warranty offered by Milgard Trinsic, the contemporary styling of Trinsic, and the potentially lower upfront cost of Simonton DaylightMax.
Ultimately, either of these window lines are an excellent investment for enhancing your home’s performance and comfort. Milgard Trinsic offers longer and more reassuring coverage, while Simonton DaylightMax provides an attractive midrange price point.
By understanding the key differences in warranties, price, and aesthetics, homeowners can determine which is the best triple-pane vinyl window line for their needs and budget.