First, What is Vinyl?

The Milgard vinyl frames are made of polyvinyl chloride (PVC), a construction grade plastic. Each manufacturer has a different compound for their vinyl—a recipe of sorts. Vinyl takes a mixture of fillers, chemicals, pigments, and plasticizers. This combination of materials dictates the long-term characteristics of the material. For example, heat resistance comes from titanium dioxide. And organic tin stops yellowing. Milgard produces their own vinyl to exacting standards in a controlled environment. Their products do not contain any fillers to ensure the final result is a stable, high performance window.

How Do I Know it is Quality Vinyl?

Here are a few things to look for in a top notch product like Milgard vinyl windows in Portland, OR:

Physical Examination

You can’t rely on price to determine quality, you need to look at the construction material. Lower quality vinyl often has a polar blue tint to delay the yellowing process. This usually means they didn’t use enough organic tin. Windows with high amounts of titanium dioxide and organic tin will almost always be pure white.

Welded Seams

There are two main methods for vinyl window construction: welding or mechanical connections. Fully welded construction is another sign of high quality vinyl windows. For this manufactures take advantage of vinyl’s chemistry. Once the sections of the frame are measured and cut, they heat the mitered corners and assemble the frame. With this method the vinyl molecules interlock, and once it cools, two pieces of vinyl become one. Mechanical joints involve brackets, screws, and caulking. This method does not hold up as well during transport or installation.

Multi-Chamber Design

You should also be able to take a look at a cross section of the vinyl window. A higher number of empty chambers in varying sizes also points to higher quality. Not only do more edges mean a stronger weld, it also means better insulation and energy efficiency.

Energy Efficiency

Thanks to the National Fenestration Ratings Council (NFRC), you have even more information about energy ratings. You can compare values from product to product. While it doesn’t tell you if the vinyl is quality, it will tell you the U-Factor and Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC). These measurements show you just how well the window reduces heat loss and helps you save energy.

Choosing EnergyGuard for Milgard Vinyl Windows

All Milgard vinyl products undergo rigorous testing to ensure quality and consistency, which is why we stand behind them. With over 40 years of experience in the industry, at EnergyGuard we know a quality product when we see one. Milgard offers superior quality, design, and material options in all their products. Want to check some of them out for yourself? Call us today at 503-554-5500 for a free consultation, no obligation. Or if you are near Portland, OR come see our showroom at 516 E. 2nd St Newberg, OR 97132.

The post What Makes Milgard a Premium Vinyl Window Brand? appeared first on EnergyGuard Windows & Doors.

Window Materials

Choosing new windows often starts with the basic material. And with Milgard, you have a few material options to choose from. These include:

Wood

This is a classic option, and for good reason. The warm wood grain adds beauty and class to any space. The material is also paintable and an excellent insulator. Wood is strong, easy to work with, and compliments any form of architecture. However, these windows do require more maintenance with regular sealing, staining, or repainting.

Fiberglass

Over the last few years, fiberglass has grown steadily in popularity. This wood alternative is strong and can securely hold larger spans of glass. It is low maintenance, paintable, and another top-notch insulator. Fiberglass also expands and contracts at the same rate as regular glass, meaning you get tighter seals. Best of all you can pair a fiberglass exterior finish with a real wood interior, getting the best of both worlds.

Vinyl

The new kid on the block so to speak, vinyl is quickly overtaking wood and aluminum in terms of popularity. These windows are made from construction grade Polyvinyl Chloride (PVC). And because Milgard manufactures its own vinyl, the compound contains no extra fillers. It is a strong, flexible material that will not warp, rot, or fade. These windows require little to no maintenance to keep them looking like new. They also provide exceptional energy efficiency. While the colors of vinyl are limited, you are sure to find a style from our seven finishing options to complement your home. Best of all, these windows come with the most affordable pricing on the market.

Aluminum

As a well-recognized and well-loved window frame option, nothing quite compares to aluminum. It is timeless and is still a popular choice for architects and homeowners alike. Why? Because they offer a slim profile and narrow sight lines. Basically, these are always beautiful windows in almost any space. Light, yet strong, we can configure these windows into a variety of shapes, sizes, and combinations. Unfortunately, the beauty comes with a cost. These window frames do not insulate as well as other materials.

Window Styles

Next, you choose the style of window based on function and design. This is where you get to have some fun! Some of the design options include:

• Awning
• Baw
• Bow
• Casement
• Double hung
• Garden window
• Horizontal slider
• Picture
• Radius
• Single Hung

Benefits of Milgard Windows

Milgard windows offer more than just functionality. These windows are stylish, more sustainable, and come with an industry-leading lifetime warranty. They offer award-winning windows. Each component is developed from hours of testing and attention to the smallest detail. You get unmatched style, strength, and standards when you choose to use Milgard.

Contact EnergyGuard Today

Want to learn more about this prestigious brand of replacement windows in Portland, OR and see some of their designs up close and personal? Do not hesitate to call our office at 503-554-5500 or visit us at 516 E. 2nd St Newberg, OR 97132. We will schedule a free in-home design consultation and estimate. You can see what these windows will look like in your home and feel confident in your decision.

The post EnergyGuard Featured Window Brand: Milgard appeared first on EnergyGuard Windows & Doors.