What is Ply Gem Windows?
What is the Ply Gem Window?
Ply Gem Windows is a company specializing in the manufacture and distribution of doors and windows for residential and commercial buildings. They offer a wide range of products, including vinyl windows, aluminum clad windows, wooden windows and replacement windows. Ply Gem Windows is known for its commitment to quality, innovation and product durability.
The company was founded in 1943 and has since become one of North America's leading manufacturers of windows and doors. Ply Gem Windows operates multiple manufacturing facilities in the United States and Canada, allowing them to serve customers throughout the region. Ply Gem Windows offers a variety of window styles, including double-hung windows, louvres, sliding, picture and awning windows, among others. They also offer customization options, allowing customers to choose different colors, finishes, glazing and hardware options to match their specific architectural preferences and style.
Ply Gem Energy Efficiency
As an Energy Star Partner, Ply Gem is committed to using sustainable methods and helping homeowners save energy. Ply Gem's wide range of windows allows you to add low emissivity (Low-E) and HPMax triple pane glass. According to Energy Star, you can save an average of $101 to $583 per year by switching to Energy Star certified single-glazed windows.
Here are the different glass options offered by Ply Gem:
High-Performance Glass (HP): This option combines Low-E glass with insulating argon gas. Argon gas is denser than air so heat and cold cannot pass through it as easily as ordinary glass. This glass also includes Ply Gem's Warm Edge gaskets, which separate the glass panels to further limit temperature migration.
Impact Glass: Ply Gem's StormBreaker Plus series is suitable for homeowners in storm-prone areas. This glass is laminated and built to withstand the weather.
Low-E (Low-E) glass: The Low-E coating is a thin layer of metal that reflects radiant heat more effectively than ordinary glass. This helps keep your home warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
Sound Absorbing Glass: Ply Gem manufactures this type of glass to minimize outside noise and eliminate unwanted noise.
Is the Ply Gem Window Warranty valid?
When you look at the Ply Gem window warranties, you will see that they have a lot of fine print. It's not an offer, but it's better than the meaningless guarantees you see from the tiny manufacturers. Looking at the replacement window warranty, you will see some limitations that you don't see from other manufacturers. For example, if their windows are installed more than 5,000 feet above sea level, the lifetime warranty will be 10 years on vinyl frames. When installed above 7000′ there is no warranty. A bit strange, but irrelevant if you don't live in the mountains. Does that mean there's something about the vinyl they use that makes it less durable? I guess it's possible, there must be a reason why they have this unusual limit.
What Styles Does the Ply Gem Window have?
Different window styles have their functions and purposes. Shopping Ply Gem's selection makes you happy as it offers options that will adorn every space in your home. For window styles, Ply Gem sells the following:
The double-hung window has two frame windows that can be opened from the top or the bottom. The windows are easy to clean thanks to their tilting ability. This stylish option is classic and goes well with many home styles.
Single-hung windows are similar to double-hung windows, but they only open from the bottom while the top frame stays in place. Fixed frames are great for improving energy efficiency and weather resistance.
Pendant lights are simply timeless and classic for any home. Windows open outwards and provide optimal air circulation. With the easy use of a simple handle, the windows are locked tightly for optimal insulation.
Open and close easily, even if the window is in a hard-to-reach space.
Sliding windows are great for tight spaces and offer the ability to slide the window left or right to open.
Awning windows are hinged at the top of the frame and open to the outside for ventilation.
Fly or Bow Windows combine three or more window designs at different angles to expand the space with ambient light and increase the space. They create a space that juts out from the design of the house.
Garden Windows provides a small greenhouse for the herbs in your kitchen. These windows extend outward with small side windows that can be opened.
What are the Best Aternatives to the Ply Gem Window?
When it comes to Ply Gem window alternatives, there are several reputable brands on the market that offer quality windows. Here are some of the best alternatives:
Andersen Windows: Andersen is a well-known and trusted brand in the window industry. They offer a wide variety of windows and materials, including vinyl, wood, and composite. Andersen windows are known for their durability, energy efficiency and customization options.
Pella windows: Pella is another popular brand that offers a wide selection of windows. They offer different styles, materials, and features to suit different tastes and budgets. Pella windows are known for their quality craftsmanship and energy efficient design.
Marvin Windows and Doors: Marvin is a premium brand known for its high quality windows and doors. They offer a wide range of window options, including wood, fiberglass, and aluminum windows. Marvin windows are recognized for their aesthetics, durability and advanced energy efficiency.
Simonton Windows: Simonton is a reputable brand that specializes in vinyl windows. They offer a variety of vinyl window designs, sizes and colors to meet different needs. Simonton windows are known for their energy efficiency, low maintenance and affordability.