If you’re in the market for new windows, you’ve probably come across Wincore as an option. As one of the leading manufacturers of windows and doors in the U.S., Wincore offers several solid product lines to choose from.
In this article, we’ll take an in-depth look at two of their most popular models – the 5400 and 7700 series – to help you determine which is the right fit for your home.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | Wincore 5400 Series | Wincore 7700 Series |
| Glass | Double pane | Triple pane |
| Spacer | Intercept | Advanced ThermoLock |
| DP Rating | DP50 | DP80 |
| Glazing Options | Standard double pane | Double pane with argon gas, Low-E coatings, triple pane |
| Frame Colors | Standard white/beige, limited color options | 15+ vinyl colors |
| Interior Finish | Vinyl | Optional wood laminate |
| Hardware Finish | White | Satin nickel, brass, chrome available |
| Integrated Blinds | No | Yes |
| Warranty | Limited lifetime on vinyl, 10 years on glass | Limited lifetime on vinyl, 10 years on glass |
| Price | Mid-range | Premium |
Overview of the Wincore 5400 Series
The Wincore 5400 series is their mid-range offering, featuring vinyl windows designed for insulation and durability. Here are some key features of the 5400:
- Multi-chambered frame and sash for insulation. The vinyl frame has a double-walled insulating air space to reduce heat and cold transfer.
- Glass panels with Intercept spacer system. Intercept spacers have a U-shaped metal alloy design to reduce heat conduction around the glass edge.
- Insulated glass panels. The standard double pane panels have an air gap between the glass to reduce thermal transfer.
- DP rating of 50. This means the window can withstand wind gusts of up to 50 mph.
- Locking hardware for security. The windows have recessed locks that fasten the sashes tightly together.
- Variety of color options. The vinyl frame and sash come in standard white or beige, with custom color matching available.
Overall, the 5400 series prioritizes energy efficiency and durability at a moderate price point. The multi-chamber frame, Intercept spacer, and double pane glass all work together to improve insulation. And the vinyl construction resists warping, sagging, and rotting over time.
Overview of the Wincore 7700 Series
The Wincore 7700 series sits at the higher end of Wincore’s offerings. These windows have more robust features and options:
- Triple pane glass units. Instead of just two panes, these windows have three panes of glass with two air gaps, improving insulation.
- Advanced ThermoLock spacers. The spacer system further reduces heat flow at the edge of the glass.
- DP rating of 80. With stronger vinyl and hardware, these windows can withstand wind gusts of up to 80 mph.
- Multiple glazing options. Besides triple pane, you can select double pane with argon gas fill or a low-emissivity (low-E) coating.
- Decorative finishes. Along with standard colors, you can upgrade to a wood laminate interior or a brass, chrome, or satin nickel hardware finish.
- Integrated blinds. Add internal vinyl blinds right in the window unit.
Overall, the 7700 series focuses on premium performance and aesthetics. The triple glazing, Advanced ThermoLock spacers, and many glazing options optimize energy efficiency. And the decorative touches give you more ways to match the windows to your home’s look.
Key Differences Between Wincore 5400 And 7700 Series Windows
Now let’s drill down into some key factors to compare these two Wincore series head to head:
- Energy Efficiency
One of the biggest considerations for most homeowners is how well the windows insulate.
This impacts both your comfort and energy bills.
Both series offer double pane glass.
But the 7700 pulls ahead with standard triple glazing, versus just double panes for the 5400.
More glass layers create more insulating air chambers.
In spacer technology, the 7700 also wins. Its Advanced ThermoLock system slows heat transfer at the edges better than the Intercept spacer in the 5400 series.
For the most extreme cold, the 7700 series can be configured with quad pane glass and krypton/argon gas fills to maximize energy performance.
Winner: Wincore 7700
- Durability
Durability varies between the series in a couple of key areas:
Wind resistance – The 7700’s DP80 rating makes it better able to withstand high winds and pressure. So if you live in an area with frequent storms, the 7700 is the way to go.
Frame strength – The heavier-duty vinyl on the 7700 gives it a stronger frame that’s more resistant to sagging and warping over time. It’s built to last longer than the 5400.
Hardware – The 7700 also has heavy duty locking hardware that feels more sturdy and secure.
Winner: Wincore 7700
- Appearance
Both series come in standard white or beige vinyl. But the 7700 offers more options to upgrade the look:
- More color choices – You can choose from 15 additional vinyl colors to match your home’s exterior. The 5400 only has a handful of alternate colors.
- Real wood laminate interior – The 7700 can have a wood laminate interior that looks like natural wood but still has the vinyl exterior. The 5400 is vinyl throughout.
- Decorative hardware finishes – Opt for a satin nickel, brass, or chrome finish on the 7700 instead of standard white. Not offered on the 5400.
Winner: Wincore 7700
- Cost
With its more robust construction and options, the 7700 series sits at a higher price point. You can expect to pay about 30% more for the 7700 compared to similar 5400 models.
But because the 7700 is more energy efficient, you may recoup some of that premium in utility bill savings over time. And the 7700 should last longer before needing to be replaced.
Price – Advantage 5400 Value – Advantage 7700
Use Cases of Wincore 5400 And 7700 Series Windows
Based on the comparisons above, in what situations might you choose one series over the other?
- For energy efficiency on a budget – If your priority is better insulation at the lowest cost, go with the Wincore 5400 series. You’ll get good double pane windows with Intercept spacers at an affordable price.
- For extreme weather – If you regularly experience heavy winds, snow, or frigid temps, the beefier 7700 series makes sense. Its DP80 rating and four-pane glazing can handle anything nature throws at it.
- For architectural style – Planning to replace windows in a Craftsman or other unique home? The wood laminate interior and decorative hardware options on the 7700 allow it to fit a wider range of aesthetics.
- For eco-friendly building – Constructing a LEED-certified or Passive House? The 7700 series has the specs required to meet stringent energy efficiency requirements.
- For comfort and noise reduction – The 7700’s triple glazing system provides the highest degree of insulation. Great for keeping out street noise or creating a tranquil sanctuary inside your home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Yes, both the 5400 and 7700 Wincore series offer good energy efficiency. The 7700 series is optimized for maximum efficiency with triple glazing, thermally efficient spacers, and other advanced features. But even the 5400 models have double panes and multi-chamber frames that insulate well compared to old single pane windows.
For cold Minnesota winters, you’ll want windows with glazing that insulates well. The Wincore 7700 series is an excellent choice with standard triple pane glass, thermally optimized spacers, and krypton gas fill options. This provides optimal protection against heat loss through the windows.
Wincore is an ENERGY STAR partner, meaning they manufacture window models that meet EPA standards for energy efficiency. Several models in their 5400 and 7700 series lines qualify as ENERGY STAR certified options. Choosing ENERGY STAR windows is a great way to save on heating and cooling costs.
Wincore offers a limited lifetime warranty on vinyl and component parts, along with 10 years coverage on insulating glass units. This ranks as one of the better warranties from major window brands. Other leading manufacturers like Andersen and Pella also offer 10 years coverage on glass parts. So Wincore is competitive in backing their window quality.
Final Thoughts
No matter which model you select, you can feel confident choosing Wincore windows. Both of these series offer quality construction backed by strong warranties. It’s just a matter of deciding which tier of features and performance meets your needs and budget.