As we get started on our Marvin Infinity reviews it’s important to keep in mind that this is a fiberglass replacement window. It’s a bit of a different animal than either vinyl replacement windows or wood windows. Fiberglass windows are designed to replicate the look of a wood window with increased durability.
While we’ll be writing another post soon on the advantages and disadvantages of different types of window construction it’s important to note that many wood replacement windows offer warranties as good or better than what you’ll get with a fiberglass product. With fiberglass replacement windows you’re paying a premium over the cost of a vinyl window to get the look of wood. It would be worthwhile to compare the cost difference between fiberglass and real wood. The price difference is often very small.
Back to the Marvin Infinity review. First of all this a great looking window. It looks very solid, comes in a wide range of colors and offers a substantial amount of style options.
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As you can see in the above picture the Marvin Infinity window does a great job of looking like a traditional wood window.
Marvin Infinity windows are often ordered with simulated divided lites or SDL grids. This means the grids are on the outside of the glass which is consistent with the look of a wood window.
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You can see the joint between the grid and the sash frame is pretty tight and very clean looking. If you get up this close to it, you can tell that it is a separate piece, but nobody is going to go around you house inspecting things like this. If they are you probably don’t want to invite them over anyway!
Notice the hardware in the picture below. There are MANY options and they have a very nice classic look.
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One last design element to point out is the lack of typical tilt-latches. As you can see in this picture, the Marvin Infinity window skips the typical told latches for a very clean and elegant look.
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How about efficiency?
The NFRC ratings for the Marvin Infinity window are pretty solid, but not particularly spectacular. This makes sense as the product was clearly designed to be pretty rather than the most efficient window on the block.
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You can see in this NFRC sticker showing the Marvin Infinity U-Factor that the ratings for this window are solid, but not remarkable. You’re paying a premium to get this fiberglass window vs a vinyl window, but you’re not getting any real improvement in efficiency.
There are MANY options that affect the ratings so this certainly isn’t the only option, but the Marvin Infinity window will only ever be average in terms of efficiency ratings. It will never be a top performer no matter how you order it.
In addition you do get a pretty high air infiltration rating with this window. That means it does not provide a particularly great seal in windy conditions. This is more of a concern for some folks than others, but if you’re in a relatively high wind area or if you’re particularly concerned about a tight seal, the Infinity window might not be for you.
Marvin Infinity Warranty?
Unfortunately the Marvin Infinity warranty leaves much to be desired. They say it has a “lifetime” warranty, but it sure does have a lot of limitations and exclusions.
Breakdown of the Infinity window warranty:
- Insulated glass seal – 20 years NOT lifetime
- Accidental glass breakage – NOT COVERED
- Ultrex fiberglass – Lifetime until transferred, then 10 years
- Ultrex fiberglass finish – 10 years NOT lifetime
- Non-glass components (screens, hardware etc)- 10 years NOT lifetime
See the Marvin Infinity warranty on Marvin’s website or download the Marvin Infinity warranty here.
As you can see the Marvin Infinity warranty isn’t nearly as thorough as you might expect for a window sold at this price point.
How about the Marvin Infinity window cost?
The cost for Marvin Infinity windows can vary dramatically. There are MANY options that have a huge impact on the price so it’s difficult to even give a range. For example a basic double hung window without installation might start at about $500 and a fancy window with several expensive options could easily top $1000.
If you’ve decided to go with the Marvin Infinity windows the easiest way to get a great price is to shop around. Find out who are the Marvin Infinity dealers in your area and get quotes for the same products. There will likely not be too many local dealers as Marvin limits the distribution to avoid price shopping, but you can always call someone out of town too. A reputable company should be able to send you a quote and a little shopping can go a long way to lowering the price.
To sum up this Marvin Infinity windows review I’d say it’s important to remember that these windows are pretty, but they command a premium price and they offer a very limited warranty.
You’re paying more for this product than you would be for a vinyl window. That doesn’t mean this product is any better, but it sure does look nice.
You may be better off with a wood window with a longer warranty than this fiberglass product. You’re paying the premium for the looks rather than for the efficiency and the look is still that of a simulated wood window. A real wood window would look even better and based on the warranty it should last longer as well.
Take a look through several more reviews on wood, fiberglass, composite and vinyl replacement windows here.
What if I have more questions about Marvin Infinity or Essential windows?
We can help! Find our Marvin Essential windows FAQ page here. If you don’t see the answer to your question post a comment and we’ll answer your question for everyone to see.
Looking for any additional information on Marvin windows that you’re not finding here? Post a comment and let us know. We’ll be glad to help out!
If you’re looking for a window company right now, the best advice we have is to check out our list of the best window companies all over the country. You can find it right here.
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