When it comes time to replace the windows in your home, you’ll likely come across two major brands: Simonton and Wincore. Both companies produce vinyl replacement windows known for their energy efficiency, durability, and customization options. But how do you know which is the better choice for your home?
In this detailed comparison guide, we’ll break down the key factors you should consider when deciding between Simonton and Wincore, including:
- Company background and manufacturing
- Window materials and construction quality
- Energy efficiency ratings
- Design styles and customization options
- Warranties
- Pricing and costs
- Professional recommendations and reviews
By the end, you’ll have a clear sense of the pros and cons of both brands so you can make an informed decision for your replacement window project. Let’s dive in!
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Simonton | Wincore |
| Company History | Founded in 1946; national leader in windows | Founded in 2015; regional Midwest brand |
| Manufacturing | USA-made in PA, WV, MN | USA-made in Missouri |
| Materials | Premium vinyl, Polylrex technology | Techni-Glass vinyl |
| Glass | Double or triple pane, Thermal optimized spacers | Double pane standard, good thermal performance |
| Frames | Multi-chambered, fusion-welded, reinforced | Meets stringent quality testing standards |
| Efficiency Ratings | Exceeds Energy Star standards | Meets Energy Star standards |
| Style Options | 60+ window styles including unique shapes | 15+ focused on classic styles |
| Customization | 200+ colors, wood veneers, custom sizes and grids | 20 vinyl colors, fewer mods than Simonton |
| Warranty | Lifetime limited on vinyl and workmanship, 10 yrs on glass | Lifetime limited on vinyl, glass, and workmanship, 20 yrs labor |
| Price Range | Double hung: $350-$650 | Double hung: $250-$450 |
| Reviews | Recommended by 9 in 10 pros, outstanding reviews | Recommended by 7 in 10 pros, very good value |
Company Backgrounds
- Simonton Windows
Founded in 1946, Simonton Windows is an industry leader in replacement windows, distributing products nationally across the United States.
The company manufactures its windows in Pennsylvania, West Virginia, and Minnesota.
Simonton is known for engineering innovative features and high-quality materials into its vinyl window products.
As a market leader, Simonton set standards for energy efficient windows with options like double pane glass and argon gas filling.
Many homeowners are familiar with the Simonton brand from big box home improvement stores. However, the company focuses mostly on professional installation through a network of authorized dealers rather than DIY sales.
- Wincore Windows
Wincore Windows entered the replacement window scene in 2015. This newer manufacturer is based in Missouri and produces vinyl windows specifically for the Midwest region.
As a smaller regional brand, Wincore aims to provide affordable windows without sacrificing quality. The company manufactures over a dozen window styles featuring premium virgin vinyl and high energy efficiency.
Wincore sells direct to homeowners to install themselves or via independent dealers for full-service installation. The brand isn’t as widely recognized outside the Midwest but offers competitive warranties and pricing.
Key Differences Between Simonton And Wincore Windows
- Window Materials and Construction
When comparing the construction quality of Simonton vs. Wincore windows, a few key materials stand out:
Vinyl
Both Simonton and Wincore use premium vinyl compounds to construct the window frame and sashes. This high-grade PVC provides thermal efficiency along with durability and low maintenance.
Simonton vinyl contains proprietary Polylrex technology adding extra resistance to weathering. Wincore uses custom-formulated Techni-Glass vinyl. Both brands offer vinyl in several color options.
Glass
Double or triple pane glass improves insulation while letting in natural light.
Most Simonton and Wincore windows come standard with double pane glass using thermally optimized spacers between panes.
Both brands offer options like triple pane glass, tinted glass, or laminated glass for extra efficiency, UV protection, strength, and sound dampening.
Wincore glass tends to be slightly more affordable while meeting Energy Star requirements.
Frame and Sashes
The quality of the frame and sashes impact overall durability and insulation. Simonton uses multi-chambered frame construction with fusion-welded corners for added structural strength. Wincore frames meet stringent quality testing standards as well.
Both brands engineer durable sashes and offer reinforcements like steel for extra support when needed. Overall construction quality meets industry standards while keeping costs competitive.
- Energy Efficiency Ratings
Energy efficiency is a top priority for both Simonton and Wincore windows. Several factors determine the energy performance:
Glazing
As mentioned above, the glazing or glass unit — including the number of panes, gas fills, and spacer technology — greatly affects efficiency. Most models by both brands meet or exceed Energy Star guidelines for home climate zones.
U-factor
The U-factor measures rate of heat transfer; lower numbers indicate better insulation. Simonton and Wincore both offer U-factors as low as 0.27 which exceeds Energy Star’s 0.30 maximum for the Northern zone.
Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC)
This measures solar radiation blocked; lower SHGC improves insulation. Again, both brands can meet or surpass Energy Star’s SHGC requirements of 0.40 or less across climate zones.
Air Infiltration
Minimizing outside air leaks improves energy performance. Premium vinyl construction and weatherstripping keep infiltration rates extremely low for both Simonton and Wincore windows.
Condensation Resistance
This measures the window’s ability to resist water vapor condensation. Optimal CR ratings fall between 45-80 — both brands deliver products safely within that range.
Overall, Simonton may have a slight performance edge, but Wincore windows still achieve excellent energy efficiency and savings.
- Design Styles and Options
Both brands offer an extensive selection of styles from traditional double hung and slider windows to casement, awning, and specialty shapes.
Styles
Simonton’s wide model range spans 60+ window styles including unique designs like round tops and architectural shapes. Wincore carries over 15 styles focused on classic options like double hungs and sliders.
Materials
For interior and exterior finishes, Simonton offers 200+ vinyl colors plus alternative materials like wood veneer. Wincore has fewer color choices, around 20 hues, all in vinyl.
Customization
Both allow for modifications like custom sizing, grid patterns, hardware finishes, glass types, and mulling configurations. Simonton likely provides more range for specialty applications. Wincore focuses on choice for standard windows.
Overall, Simonton excels at flexible, customized options made to order while Wincore provides more essential, budget-friendly styles.
- Warranties
The warranty terms reflect a brand’s faith in their window quality. Here’s how Simonton and Wincore compare:
Simonton
- Lifetime limited warranty on vinyl and workmanship
- 10 years on glass
- Lifetime replacement and reinstallation
Wincore
- Lifetime limited warranty on vinyl, glass, and workmanship
- 20 years coverage for labor
Both offer strong assurances against defects. With Simonton, glass coverage is shorter but frame and workmanship are covered for life. Wincore provides an exceptional 20 year labor warranty. Ultimately, both deliver outstanding long-term protection.
- Pricing and Costs
Window prices depend on the size, type, features, and local labor costs. Here are some average price ranges:
Simonton
- Double hung: $350 – $650
- Slider: $400 – $725
- Casement: $550 – $850
- Specialty: $700+
Wincore
- Double hung: $250 – $450
- Slider: $300 – $550
- Casement: $400 – $650
- Specialty: $500+
As expected, pricing aligns with brand reputation — Simonton commands a premium for the trusted quality while Wincore offers comparable windows at lower price points.
Wincore is likely the more budget-friendly choice, at least 15% less on average. But Simonton provides more style, customization, and performance options in one brand.
- Professional Recommendations
Industry experts and customer reviews highlight further differences between Simonton and Wincore:
Simonton
- Recommended by nearly 9 in 10 pros
- Rated excellent for innovation, style, and quality
- Strong reviews praise durability, energy savings, and noise reduction
Wincore
- Recommended by 7 in 10 installation pros
- Rated very good for value and midrange quality
- Favorable reviews mention affordability and installer service
Builders and window contractors consider Simonton a top-tier industry leader that commands its premium prices. Feedback on Wincore applauds the budget-friendly pricing and simplicity of the brand’s classic window styles.
Key Takeaways
In this detailed comparison, a few key differences stand out between Simonton and Wincore:
Simonton
- Industry leader with national reputation
- Unmatched style and customization options
- Highest quality materials and construction
- Excellent energy efficiency and performance
- Premium pricing but worth investment
Wincore
- Regional brand available in Midwest
- Focus on budget-friendly essential windows
- Meets efficiency and quality standards
- Much more affordable but fewer features
- Simple, classic styles and hassle-free buying
For those willing to pay more for custom, innovative windows with maximum performance, Simonton is likely the best option. Homeowners on tighter budgets or seeking basic vinyl windows can save substantially with Wincore.
Use this breakdown as a guide, get quotes, and carefully evaluate your needs. With either brand, you can be confident you’re getting well-made, energy efficient replacement windows built to last.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, Simonton is widely considered one of the best national window brands on the market today. Industry experts consistently rate Simonton windows highly for innovation, quality, energy efficiency, sound proofing, and overall performance. The company engineers premium materials into their vinyl windows. Homeowners and pros praise the durability and craftsmanship of Simonton products which command top prices in the category.
Wincore windows meet or exceed Energy Star program requirements for thermal efficiency in home climate zones. While the brand doesn’t actively promote the certification, all Wincore models are engineered to strict energy performance standards for U-factor, SHGC, condensation resistance, and air leakage. Their vinyl frames and double pane glass provide excellent insulation. Wincore windows achieve estimated energy savings of up to 15% annually.
Simonton windows are manufactured by Simonton Building Products headquartered in Pennsylvania. The company operates three manufacturing plants in the United States, using domestic and imported materials to produce vinyl windows, doors, and specialty products for residential homes. In business for over 75 years, Simonton has grown into a leading national supplier with distribution across the country. They focus on professional installation through authorized dealers.
Simonton windows are proudly made in the USA at the company’s manufacturing facilities in West Virginia, Minnesota, and Pennsylvania. They source high-quality vinyl, glass, and hardware materials from both domestic and international suppliers. Simonton windows are assembled domestically at their plants under strict quality control standards to produce American-made windows. A portion of products are also imported. But the majority carry the Made in USA distinction.
In Conclusion
Replacing outdated windows with energy efficient vinyl models can make a dramatic difference in your home’s comfort, utility costs, and resale value.
When considering brands like Simonton and Wincore, evaluate the quality, features, warranties, prices, and independent recommendations covered here to select the ideal windows for your needs and budget. With either of these two brands, you can be confident you’re getting well-made, durable windows that stand the test of time.
