Milgard has been operating in the window business since 1958. In that time, the company has gained a reputation for customized excellence and beautiful windows. Milgard tempers its own glass and has developed a proprietary formula for vinyl window frames, and is known on the west coast for its commitment to providing a variety of windows at multiple price points.
US Window & Door is the top Milgard certified dealer and is pleased to carry two of Milgard’s most popular and versatile styles: the Trinsic Series and the Tuscany Series. Whether you are replacing windows in your older house or installing them brand-new in a home build, both the Trinsic and Tuscany Series are excellent choices.
But many factors go into choosing the right window for your home. To make an informed choice, you need to know more about each window. Keep reading to learn all of the specifications for Milgard Trinsic vs. Tuscany windows, and then you’ll have no trouble choosing the right Milgard windows for your home.
Available Materials
Homeowners highly prize the Trinsic and Tuscany series of windows because of their durability, functionality, and performance. Both styles are made from Milgard’s special extruded vinyl - this manufacturing method makes Milgard’s windows easier to build to your unique specifications. Vinyl is also sturdy, so your replacement windows will last decades. Vinyl construction is much more resistant to temperature changes and elements like ocean air and sea spray than aluminum or fiberglass, meaning that you will be investing in your home’s future no matter which Milgard series you choose.
The Tuscany Series is a traditional window style, and its frames are purposely wide to allow for maximum customization and personalization. Tempered glass panes provide equal sightlines regardless of window style or size. A Tuscany window may look minimalistic, but that workaday appearance hides some spectacular highlights. Like all of Milgard’s product lines, Tuscany windows are energy-efficient and exceed Energy Star requirements.
These windows are equipped with Milgard’s special insulating glass. The SunCoat Low-E window panes reduce interior UV exposure and limit sun damage to the paint, furniture, and upholstery. These elements will remain outside where they belong while your home stays comfortable in summer and winter.
The Trinsic Series is Milgard’s newest offering. Trinsic windows are a more affordable option, meant for people who want to replace their windows without spending a lot of money. If clean, sleek lines and classic designs appeal to you, then you’ll want to choose Trinsic series windows. These windows are meant to provide the look and functionality of aluminum windows with the strength and longevity of vinyl.
If you decide to go with Trinsic over Tuscany, you will find the Trinsic series extremely low-maintenance. Automatic locking mechanisms increase home safety, while double-paned tempered glass is noise-reducing and meets or exceeds Energy Star, U-factor, and SHGC criteria for superior energy efficiency.
The Trinsic Series offers additional customization by way of the use of grids and decorative glass. Besides adding a level of unparalleled beauty to your home, decorative glass adds to your home’s curb appeal. If you decide to sell your home, it increases the resale value. Decorative glass allows natural light through but prevents people outside from seeing in. If privacy is a big concern, decorative glass may be a good choice for your new windows.
Grids are another way to add dimension to your windows. These are available in the form of flat or sculptured grids placed inside the glass or exterior grids. Exterior grids give a gorgeous look but make it very difficult to keep the windows clean. Flat or sculpted grids are great if the ability to clean your windows is a priority.
Color Options
You can customize both Trinsic and Tuscany window frames. Choose from two standard interior and exterior colors, or pick an interior color and then one of eight premium exterior-only choices. Whether you intend to match your home’s paint or contrast it, it’ll surely turn heads.
Milgard windows are coated twice with paint. This ensures that all colors are long-lasting and durable. In addition, it preserves the exterior frames from weather and sunlight damage. Premium frames come with a translucent finish to let UV light reflect off the vinyl frames and protect the exterior finish.
Standard interior and exterior frame colors are tan and white; select locations also offer clay as an option. Premium colors, which are only available as exterior choices, include bronze, espresso, classic brown, tweed, silver, sand, fog, and ivory. These are all elegant alternatives to the standard colors, and any would compliment a tan or white interior frame.
Hardware
Milgard has a focus on safety that is unparalleled. Each of their windows integrates safety features seamlessly while maintaining the beauty and clean lines that their products are famous for. Both Milgard Tuscany Series and Milgard Trinsic Series feature automatic locks that match your chosen interior frame.
Milgard’s SmartTouch window locks come standard in the Tuscany and Trinsic series. They are built into the window sash for a seamless, low-profile design. Unlike traditional spoon-style locks, which require twisting or squeezing to operate, the SmartTouch locks are easy to use. If the window is closed, it is also locked. This unique safety feature is great for families with small children or for seniors who might remember to close windows but forget to lock them. Windows with the SmartTouch technology exceed residential standards regarding forced entry.
The SmartTouch lock is user-friendly and was designed specifically with seniors in mind. SmartTouch technology has won Milgard an IDEA award from the Industrial Designers Society of America and a commendation from the Arthritis Foundation. But SmartTouch is also great for people with disabilities or mobility problems. The SmartTouch lock was redesigned with the Trinsic Series, offering a lower profile with unobscured sightlines to increase the beauty factor of your windows.
Operation Styles
Tuscany windows come in nine operation styles for all of your home’s needs, while Trinsic windows are available in seven operation styles. Trinsic and Tuscany windows both come in the following styles:
Picture windows
Picture windows are what they sound like. They offer a picturesque view, and they let a lot of light into your home. Unfortunately, they don’t open. You can choose between many shapes and sizes, meaning you can customize a picture window to fit any space in your home. You can also combine picture windows with other types of windows to ensure that you can benefit from both natural light and ventilation.
Awning windows
Awning windows are a hinged style of window that opens from the top and swings outward. They allow for interior ventilation without having to worry about rain, wind, snow, leaves, or dirt. When they are closed, you will enjoy a seamless view of the outside. Awning windows are incredibly easy to operate and keep clean. If you want to pair another style with a picture window, awning windows are an excellent choice.
Casement windows
Casement windows are similar to a door. They have hinges at the side and open outward. Usually, casement styles open and close on cranks, making them easy to open. That’s why these windows are a great choice for areas above a sink or situations where you can’t lift a window to open it. They offer an unobstructed view due to a lack of a rail. If you choose casement windows, make sure not to leave them open and unattended. That crank system is easy for anyone to use, but it is also an easy way for intruders to enter your home.
Single-hung windows
Single-hung windows are what you think of as traditional windows. They are single-hung because they have two different sashes, one that opens and one that is fixed. The bottom sash opens upwards to allow airflow, while the top sash remains fixed in place. Unlike windows that open in or out, single-hung windows are great space savers. You can use them in any location where space is at a premium, and they are especially good in bedrooms or the living room due to how easy they are to open.
Horizontal slider windows (single or double)
Horizontal slider windows come in single slider or double slider options. Both styles have a fixed sash that cannot open. The single slider has one sash that slides open; depending on how you want to open the window, the sash can slide from the left or the right. The double slider window has two sashes that open on either side of the fixed sash. Slider windows are another fantastic space-saving choice for people who can’t operate a hung window for any reason. Horizontal sliders are ideal for porches and kitchens or in spaces that could use a picture window but where you want ventilation.
Radius windows are similar to picture windows. They do not open but are a more decorative option than a plain picture window. In a radius window, the top section is a half-circle. Because they are fixed, you can use a radius window in high places like a dormer or a room that needs light but no ventilation. Additionally, you can use radius windows in conjunction with other types of windows like casements or sliders.
The Tuscany Series also offers two styles of windows:
Bay and bow windows
Bay and bow styles of windows aren’t as common as hung windows, but if you have an area that doesn’t require ventilation, they are excellent options. These windows extend beyond the exterior wall and serve as useful windows and decorative features.
Bay windows typically have one center window flanked by two narrower side windows. The narrow windows are at an angle, causing the exterior bay extension, while the large windows are set in straight. Bay windows are angular and can be boxy-looking.
Bow window types are comprised of four or more windows of similar sizes. The installation creates a curved effect, which requires more space than bay windows but looks more refined.
Both bay and bow windows are quite popular among homeowners. They provide lots of natural light and have the same effect as a picture window. They also serve to open up a room, making them perfect for living or family rooms, the master bedroom, or even a kid’s room. Put a storage bench under the window for toys or out-of-season clothes. A padded top makes a great reading nook or extra seating.
Double-hung windows
Double-hung windows are visually similar to single-hung windows, but the double-hung windows have two operable sashes, not just a single one. Two operable sashes mean that you can open the top of the window down and the bottom up. Opening from the top and the bottom is excellent for increasing ventilation, especially during the summer months. You just have to remember to close the top! However, double-hung windows can be a challenge for short people.
Warranty
Both the Trinsic and Tuscany Series offer a limited lifetime warranty on the frames, and the Tuscany windows have glass breakage coverage as well. The warranty states that Milgard will repair or replace any defective materials. This includes parts and labor and is guaranteed for as long as you own your home. If you end up selling, the warranty extends 10 years from the installation date to the new owners at no extra charge.
Final Thoughts
Regardless of which Milgard series of windows you ultimately decide to go with, there are no wrong choices. Differences, yes, but variety is the spice of life, as they say. With Milgard windows from US Window & Door, you can be sure you are getting a quality product with a long history and expert window installation. So once you’ve decided which windows are best for you, get in touch. We can help you with an estimate and get started on your design plans.
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