If you’re in the market for new windows, Vinylmax and Simonton are two brands you’ll likely encounter. Both companies make vinyl replacement windows, but there are some key differences between them.
This comprehensive guide will compare Vinylmax and Simonton windows to help you decide which is the best option for your home renovation or new construction project.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Vinylmax | Simonton |
| Frames | Multi-chamber composite polymer vinyl | Multi-chamber premium vinyl |
| Glass | Double or triple pane with argon fill | Double or triple pane with argon fill |
| Energy Efficiency | Meet or exceed ENERGY STAR standards | Meet or exceed ENERGY STAR standards |
| Styles | Single-hung, double-hung, sliding, casement, etc. More shapes through custom program | All standard styles plus unlimited customization with Prism series |
| Warranty | Lifetime limited on vinyl and hardware, 10 years on glass | Lifetime limited on vinyl and hardware, 20 years on glass |
| Pricing | Mid-range | Slightly premium |
| Overall | Excellent quality and value | Excellent quality with more custom options |
Overview of Vinylmax Windows
Vinylmax is a popular national window brand that offers vinyl windows notable for their durability and energy efficiency. Here’s an overview of some of their key features:
- Frames – Vinylmax windows feature heavy-duty vinyl frames made from proprietary composite polymers for added strength. The vinyl is extruded with a multi-chamber design to prevent heat loss.
- Glass – They offer double-pane insulated glass units with an argon gas fill in the gap between panes. This improves the window’s insulation ability. Glass options include clear, tinted, tempered, and laminated.
- Energy efficiency – Vinylmax windows meet or exceed Energy Star requirements in all 50 states. Their triple glazing option provides excellent insulation for cold climates.
- Hardware – Vinylmax windows feature sturdy, low-maintenance hardware. Most lines use a concealed sash lock and tilt-in design for easy cleaning.
- Styles – Available styles include single-hung, double-hung, sliding, casement, awning, and picture windows. Shapes include rectangles, triangles, trapezoids, and more.
- Warranty – They back their windows with a limited lifetime warranty on vinyl and hardware plus a 10-year warranty on the insulated glass unit.
Overview of Simonton Windows
Simonton is another national manufacturer known for their reliable and energy-efficient vinyl replacement windows. Here are some key features of Simonton windows:
- Vinyl – Simonton uses premium vinyl formulations with insulating chambers to resist heat transfer. The vinyl has inorganic fillers to protect against UV damage.
- Glass – Double or triple-pane glass units with Low-E coatings are standard. Options include tinted, tempered, and laminated glass. Argon gas fills the glass space.
- Efficiency – Simonton windows meet ENERGY STAR requirements in all climate zones. Triple glazing and advanced Low-E coatings provide excellent insulation.
- Hardware – Durable, maintenance-free hardware features multi-point locking mechanisms for a tight seal. Sash lifts allow easy opening and cleaning.
- Styles – Offerings include single-hung, double-hung, sliding, casement, and awning windows in multiple shapes and sizes.
- Warranty – Structural components are backed by a limited lifetime warranty. Insulated glass units have a 20-year warranty.
Key Differences Between Vinylmax And Simonton Windows
Now that we’ve covered the basics of Vinylmax and Simonton windows, let’s compare some of the most important factors consumers should consider:
Window Frames
The vinyl window frame impacts durability, insulation, and long-term performance.
- Vinylmax – Vinylmax uses a patented composite polymer in its window frames for increased structural strength. The multi-chamber design also boosts insulation.
- Simonton – Simonton vinyl frames also have a multi-chambered insulation design. The company uses premium vinyl formulations to guard against heat loss.
Verdict: Both brands offer vinyl window frames of exceptional quality and similar insulating properties. Vinylmax touts the durability of its composite polymer while Simonton stresses its premium vinyl compounds. For frames, it’s a draw.
Glass Packages
The insulated glass unit affects energy efficiency as well as noise reduction.
- Vinylmax – Vinylmax InsulKor glass features an argon gas fill and their densest Intercept warm-edge spacer for reduced heat transfer through the window.
- Simonton – Simonton ProSolar Low-E glass has argon-filled chambers with high-performance spacers. It’s specially formulated to block UV rays and insulate.
Verdict: Vinylmax and Simonton offer similar top-tier glass technologies. Both provide ample options for high visibility and excellent insulation for energy savings. It’s another draw.
Energy Efficiency Ratings
A window’s ENERGY STAR certification indicates energy performance.
- Vinylmax – All Vinylmax windows meet or exceed ENERGY STAR requirements in any region. Models with triple glazing reach ENERGY STAR Most Efficient marks.
- Simonton – Likewise, all Simonton Windows meet stringent ENERGY STAR qualifications. Even their dual pane models achieve Most Efficient certification.
Verdict: For energy savings, you can’t go wrong with Vinylmax or Simonton. Both featureWindow lines that are highly certified by ENERGY STAR for any climate. It’s another tie.
Design and Style Options
The selection of styles and customization options impacts the look and functionality.
- Vinylmax – Vinylmax offers styles like single-hung, double-hung, sliding, casement, awning, and picture windows. They have a Good-Better-Best model lineup. More specialty shapes are available through their ViewPoint Design Studio.
- Simonton – Simonton has all the expected operating styles. Their Prism by Simonton series allows for unlimited customized shapes, sizes, and colors. Style choices are plentiful.
Verdict: For style versatility, Simonton edges out Vinylmax slightly thanks to the Prism series. But Vinylmax still provides an ample range of standard and special-order window designs. For many homes, either brand will suffice.
Warranties
The warranty partially reflects expected product lifespan and durability.
- Vinylmax – Vinylmax provides a lifetime limited warranty on vinyl and hardware and 10 years on glass. Their warranty is transferable if you sell your home.
- Simonton – Simonton offers lifetime limited coverage for vinyl and hardware too but bumps glass coverage to 20 years. The warranty is also transferable.
Verdict: Both brands provide outstanding warranties that suggest long-lasting windows. Simonton warrants glass for a decade longer, which provides more peace of mind. This round goes to Simonton.
Pricing
Budget is a major consideration when shopping for replacement windows.
- Vinylmax – As a mid-priced brand, Vinylmax offers more affordable options without sacrificing quality. Their prices are competitive with other mid-tier manufacturers.
- Simonton – Simonton windows fall into a slightly more premium price range. The increased cost goes towards top-grade materials and high performance features.
Verdict: Vinylmax takes the value category for offering competitive prices without compromising on features. Simonton produces excellent windows but their pricing reflects the use of high-end components.
Which Is Better Overall?
With comparable window frames, glass packages, energy efficiency, and styles, Vinylmax and Simonton are evenly matched in most categories. The brands are both known for manufacturing reliable and well-insulated vinyl replacement windows.
So which is better? Here are some key facts to help you decide:
- For budget buyers, Vinylmax is the winner. Their mid-range pricing presents outstanding value without sacrificing quality or features.
- Those wanting tons of design flexibility may favor Simonton for the Prism customization. But Vinylmax still offers variety.
- Energy efficiency ratings for both meet stringent standards across climate zones. This area is a draw.
- Warranties give Simonton an edge with their 20-year glass coverage compared to Vinylmax’s 10 years.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, Vinylmax windows are an excellent choice. They’re constructed from durable composite vinyl that resists warping. Multi-chamber frames provide insulation. Glass packages meet stringent ENERGY STAR requirements for energy efficiency. Owners report being very satisfied with Vinylmax products. They offer quality at a mid-range price point.
It’s hard to single out one company as the absolute “best” for vinyl replacement windows due to the number of quality manufacturers. Along with Vinylmax and Simonton, brands like Pella, Milgard, Champion, and Andersen make durable and efficient vinyl windows. As long as you choose a reputable brand, vinyl windows will likely outperform older glass or wood-framed windows.
Both Vinylmax and Simonton are excellent window brands. They’re two of the top national manufacturers of vinyl replacement windows. Vinylmax windows offer quality construction at competitive prices while Simonton is known for premium materials and high performance. Consumer reviews for both companies are overwhelmingly positive. So you can’t go wrong with either brand.
Simonton Windows is part of the Fortune Brands family of home product manufacturers. Fortune Brands has over 20 renowned brands including Moen faucets, Therma-Tru entry doors, and Master Lock. Simonton operates its own manufacturing facilities in Tennessee and West Virginia where they make ProFinish vinyl windows and Prism custom vinyl windows. The Simonton brand is over 70 years old with a reputation for reliable, energy-efficient windows.
Final Thoughts
Overall, Vinylmax windows earn top recommendations for their balance of quality, energy savings, and affordable price point. But Simonton is also an excellent premium option, especially for homeowners who prioritize customized aesthetics and long warranties.
When making your final decision, be sure to get quotes from local installers, as pricing can vary. And look for current promotions from the manufacturer or retailer. With either quality brand, you can’t go wrong revitalizing your home with new windows.