Marvin Windows is a company that has been around since the early 1900s. They started out as a lumber company and later ventured into the wood-framed window business. In the late 1900s, the company began making fiberglass windows. Their fiberglass windows are made to mimic the look of real wood, while offering homeowners a long-lasting, low-maintenance product.
What sets Marvin Windows apart in the replacement window industry is the fact that they don’t make vinyl windows. Their window lines include Infinity, which has an all fiberglass window frame; Integrity, which has a wood interior and a fiberglass exterior; and the Marvin line of windows, which have all wood frames. In addition, the Marvin Family of Brands owns Trustile, which makes made-to-order doors out of wood and MDF.
Are Fiberglass Windows Better than Vinyl?
If you just do a rough comparison of fiberglass and vinyl windows, you’ll find that fiberglass windows are almost always more expensive than vinyl windows of the same size and with otherwise similar features.
Does this mean that fiberglass is better? Not necessarily. Both materials are durable and help contribute to good energy efficiency in replacement windows. The fiberglass windows made by Marvin do have the advantage of replicating the look of real wood frames, if that’s something that’s important to you, but other than that, it’s hard to justify the higher cost associated with fiberglass.
When comparing the energy efficiency of fiberglass windows with vinyl windows, you may even find that good quality vinyl windows (like the ones we sell at BM Windows) outperform fiberglass windows when it comes to keeping your home comfortably warm in the winter and cool in the summer. Be sure to compare the energy efficiency numbers on the various brands of replacement windows you’re considering.
The Marvin Window Warranty
As with all warranties, it’s important to read the fine print. It’s no different with the Marvin warranty. Many replacement windows come with a lifetime warranty that protects you against manufacturer’s defects. Marvin windows, however come with a Limited Warranty. Their windows are only guaranteed against stress cracks caused by manufacturing defects for 10 years. Some of their finishes are only guaranteed for five years, and they offer no coverage at all for accidental glass breakage.
This is the type of warranty you could expect if you were purchasing a low-cost replacement window, but not necessarily when you’re purchasing windows with a higher price point like the windows made by Marvin. Typically, higher end replacement windows have a comprehensive warranty to match. For example, Anlin, the premier brand of replacement windows we sell at BM Windows, comes with a Double Lifetime Warranty and has very few exclusions. The Anlin warranty pretty much covers everything that could go wrong with your windows for as long as you own your home. And since it’s a double lifetime warranty, you can also pass it on to the next owner of your home.
We know that it’s not fun to read through warranties, but in the case of replacement windows, it really is necessary to understand what is covered and what isn’t. A good warranty can make a big difference down the road if any defects come to the surface. You should also make sure you get a window installation warranty, so you’re completely covered if anything ever goes wrong with your windows.
So, Are Marvin Windows a Good Choice for San Diego Homeowners?
If you’re set on all wood or fiberglass windows, Marvin Windows are a popular choice. They are made by an established company that offers products not available by many other replacement window companies. However, if you are looking for vinyl replacement windows for their lower price point, durability, and energy efficiency, a great choice would be windows by Anlin, Monte Verde, or Bay View. All are well-made with high-quality vinyl and offer the energy efficiency many San Diego homeowners are looking for in replacement windows.
Purchasing Replacement Windows from a San Diego Dealer
If you’re ready to start the process of replacing the windows in your home, contact a San Diego replacement window dealer like BM Windows. We can help you determine the best windows for your home based on your needs and your budget. We won’t try to “up sell” you on features you don’t want or need. We’ll just give you honest, straightforward information and pricing. We hope to hear from you soon!
