Best Replacement Windows
Based on In-Depth Reviews
- 120+Hours of research
- 17Companies vetted
- 4Features reviewed
- 5Top
Picks - 40+Sources used
Check if your house would actually benefit from replacement windows or if you need a full-frame installation.
Consider all frame material options and their longevity in both construction and style.
Get estimates and calculate the total cost along with the advertised energy savings.
Read warranties carefully, as they can change due to materials and even from model to model.
How we analyzed the best Replacement Window Companies
Our list of the best Replacement Window Companies
- Additional Companies:
- WIndow Nation
- SoftLite
- Pella
- Modernize
- Great Lakes Window
- Sunrise Windows
- Thompson Creek
- Alpine Window
- Alside
- HomeAdvisor Powered by Angi
- Window Price
- Window Remodel Connection
- Porch Replacement Windows
- Blue Ribbon Local Window Replacement
- Home Renovation
- Beldon Replacement Windows
- Precision Siding and Construction
- Home and Bath Solutions
- Sears
- Renewaview
- Glass Doctor
- ClearMax
- HomeWindowPrices.org
- Remodel Your Home
- YourHomesWindows.com
- Smart Window Savings
- TopTop Services
- Billy.com
- Window Service Pros
Disclaimers:
*Champion Limited Time Offer: Buy 2 Comfort 365 Windows® at regular price and get 2 additional windows of equal or lesser value free with participation in the Yes! Program. Offer applies to all window styles in white except nonrectangular-shaped window styles, standard installation included. Window discount without participation in Yes! Program equals 40% off. Minimum purchase of 4 windows required. 20% national sunroom and siding discount requires minimum purchase of 120 sq. ft. complete sunroom or 1,200 sq. ft. of siding. Earn up to an additional 10% off with participation in the Yes! Program (up to $2,000), making your sunroom and siding discount a total of up to 30% off. All discounts apply to the MSRP cost. No adjustments can be made on prior sales. YES! Program valid only at the time of your initial demonstration and once per residence per term. Minimum purchase of 1 entry door with decorative glass required. Offer subject to change. †The Champion Limited Lifetime Warranty applies to Comfort 365 Windows® and qualifying Champion products as long as the original purchaser owns the home. Visit Champion's website for more details.
**Champion Financing: Subject to credit approval. Rates range from 15.85% - 21.19% APR (interest rates range from 17.99% - 24.99%). Loan amount and rate will vary based on your income and creditworthiness. 12-month promotional period ("Promo Period") during which interest is billed but will be waived if the amount financed is paid in full before Promo Period expires. Monthly payments are not required during the Promo Period. Any unpaid balance and amounts owed after Promo Period will be paid over 84 monthly payments. For example, assuming the full credit limit is used on loan approval date and no payments are made during Promo Period, for every $1,000 financed at a fixed interest rate of 24.99%, 12 monthly payments of $0 followed by 84 monthly payments of $28.29. This example is an estimate only. Actual payment amounts based on amount and timing of purchases. Call 866-936-0602 for financing costs and terms. Financing for the GreenSky® consumer loan program is provided by Equal Opportunity Lenders. GreenSky® is a registered trademark of GreenSky, LLC, a subsidiary of Goldman Sachs Bank USA. NMLS #1416362. Loans originated by Goldman Sachs are issued by Goldman Sachs Bank USA, Salt Lake City Branch. NMLS #208156. www.nmlsconsumeraccess.org.
Our Top Picks: Replacement Windows Reviews
When it comes to buying replacement windows, there are three main components: manufacture, retail, and installation.
Some of our picks can fulfill all three steps. Big stores like The Home Depot® will sell and install, but leave manufacturing to brands who create the windows themselves but sell their product through certified sellers and contractors.
In turn, contractors provide installation services for windows you may have bought separately. Some can sell, but who you choose will depend on the product you want, since different contractors are certified by different brands. This is where services like the aggregator Modernize come in, to help you find local contractors that match your preferences and requirements.
Sears review
Best replacement windows for noise reduction
Screenshot searshomeservices.com, June 2023
Sears windows are available in a variety of styles, including double-hung windows, sliding windows, bay windows and more. One feature that improves their functionality is the double panes with argon insulation that reduces noise and decreases temperature transfers. You can customize your Sears windows with different interior and exterior colors, glass types, blinds and shapes.
Sears Home Improvement services are available in many cities throughout the U.S., but you should check the website beforehand if you plan to use Sears’ installation services. To begin, you can request a phone call to discuss your project. Then, a specialist will visit your home within a day or two to estimate the cost of your windows. Finally, you can make your purchase and have your new windows installed.
Sears window replacement services include guaranteed protection on its products and services. You'll receive manufacturer warranties, a limited product and labor warranty, public liability protection, worker’s compensation protection and property damage insurance. Check out our full Sears replacement windows review.
Modernize review
Best replacement windows for cold climates
Screenshot Modernize.com, August 2020
Modernize is an online marketplace, or aggregator, in the field of home improvement. It connects you with manufacturers or contractors that fit your needs, allowing you to find smaller or more regional businesses that have a more comprehensive knowledge of the area you live in, the challenges of the climate and regional construction codes. This is especially helpful for homeowners in cold climates that need contractors who know which kinds of windows are best for keeping their homes warm.
Modernize stands out for its easy-to-use website packed with information. Front and center, you can choose from different categories of work you might be looking for, including windows. After clicking, you get two options: fill out a detailed survey so that the algorithm can match you with a nearby company, or read up on your project. There’s information about different styles, costs, top brands, buying guides, and even scientific terminology to better understand how energy-efficient glass works.
The downside, as with any service of this type, is that you’ll have to choose between the different companies you’re shown, and will eventually need to research the contracting company you’re matched with. Also, their leads service might work a bit too well, netting you a higher number of calls and emails than you thought. However, if you like having plenty of options, that can be a good thing.
Read our full Modernize replacement windows review.
Sunrise Windows review
Best vinyl replacement windows
Screenshot SunriseWindows.com, August 2020
As of 2023, Sunrise Windows & Doors is now part of MI Windows and Doors, but you can still browse Sunrise-specific styles by viewing the V4000 Sunrise Series. MI Windows and Doors services the eastern half of the country, and the Sunrise Series includes a variety of energy-efficient vinyl windows with different grid and color options, such as picture windows, double-hung windows and single-hung windows.
And if you’re looking for protection beyond sunlight, the non-prorated lifetime warranty is more than solid—unlike with many other companies, there are no additional repair and installation costs when replacing a product. It covers the entire window, so the terms and length are the same for both glass and frame. It’s also transferable, so when you sell the house, the windows will remain under warranty.
The MI Windows and Doors website is easy to navigate and provides comprehensive educational literature to help you understand frame and glass materials, installation processes, and more.
What makes Sunrise stand out, though, is just how beautiful you can make your windows look. You can begin browsing by exterior colors, interior colors and window styles. When you select a style, you can customize colors, glass options (such as standard, obscure or rain), grid styles and patterns, and hardware.
Overall, Sunrise window reviews show satisfaction from most customers, although your experience may vary based on the contractor installing the windows.
Read our full Sunrise Windows & Doors review to learn more.
THE HOME DEPOT® review
Best value replacement windows
Screenshot HomeDepot.com, August 2020
The Home Depot® might be the best-known home improvement store in the country, and they’re an important point of reference for windows too. Aside from their proprietary label, American Craftsman (manufactured by Ply Gem), they also sell a wide variety of brands, such as Andersen and Simonton. Some styles include sliding windows, casement windows, hopper windows and composite windows.
The store carries pre-made windows in basic styles and a variety of commonly-used measurements for a quick solution. They offer window installation, a knowledgeable in-store staff, and — if you feel the need to — you can still buy from a maker like Andersen, but do it through The Home Depot® to take advantage of their service and warranty. In addition, you can choose to buy affordable replacement windows for DIY projects to further reduce the cost.
Warranty coverage is an important part of why you would want to do business with The Home Depot®. Window products will include a warranty from the window manufacturer. In addition, The Home Depot® offers a limited installation warranty to protect the labor portion of your purchase.
If you want to buy online (they offer free shipping on some models, or free store pick-up on all), The Home Depot® can be a top choice if you’re looking to replace some windows quickly.
Read our full THE HOME DEPOT® replacement windows review.
Jeld-Wen review
Best Style and Variety
Screenshot Jeld-wen.com, August 2020
With a 70-year history in the business, Jeld-Wen is another respected name in the replacement window world, well-known for their doors and high-end style. Jeld-Wen has, arguably, the widest selections of colors, finishes, glass design and materials of any of the stores we reviewed. They have a virtual showroom feature and are widely available through certified dealers and The Home Depot, which gives you a better chance to see the product before buying.
Jeld-Wen stands out for using a variety of fiberglass products and for offering different woods to choose from, including their own AuraLast treated pine. This is a proprietary process that they claim injects almost 100% of the wood with protective agents to extend its lifetime. With too many options can come confusion, though, and Jeld-Wen’s warranty can be a bit daunting since it changes depending on materials or the selection of glass, so be sure to read up on the specific product you want.
Lowe's Replacement Windows review
Screenshot Lowes.com, August 2020
With a location count just slightly below their main competitor, Home Depot, Lowe’s is present in the entire country, and they offer similar benefits: fast, easy purchase of pre-made windows; great in-store customer service, and a good return policy.
While their own warranty isn’t as clear-cut or as long-lasting as their main rival’s, Lowe’s does fare well with their product line. For starters, they sell their own brand: Reliabilt (manufactured by Atrium). They also sell Pella, one of the top replacement window companies, which itself has a very good warranty system. On the list you’ll also find Jeld-Wen, another respected name in the industry. At the end of the day, if you want to do business with a big retailer as an intermediary, it’ll come down to what product you prefer or what source manufacturer you’d rather do business with.
More insight into our methodology
Windows are a crucial part of your home, enhancing decor, providing protection from the elements, and even helping you save on energy costs. They are also not easy to shop for, especially online, as the measuring can be tricky and websites do not necessarily show all the facets of the product.
This is why we focused on dependable retailers that are able to provide the help you need throughout the entire process. Whether you need a quick fix because winter is fast approaching, or you’re setting up a new home and have very specific needs, we looked for retailers that provide quality brands, comprehensive warranties, flexible return policies, and installation help should you need it.
Types of replacement windows
A disadvantage of replacement windows sold in retail stores is that they are pre-made and come in limited styles. A retailer’s selection is one of the most important aspects of buying windows online since waiting for them to be made to your specifications—although convenient in some cases—can defeat the purpose. We looked at the available brands, and how many styles, colors, and variables they tend to keep in stock.
Brands or contractors, in contrast , have products made to your specifications. We looked for the different styles they offered, from single and double hung, to French, arched, and awning windows. We also considered the diversity of materials they use to make them, which include wood, vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum, and what colors and finishes can they provide for each material.
For retailers, we checked how many brands they work with, how much inventory they keep in stock, and how varied that inventory is. There’s a vast amount of combinations of materials, designs, and measurements they have to keep up with. Even though buying directly from a store will never have the advantages of full customization, having enough options for less money can come close.
Consumer Experience
It was important to us that the websites for the companies in our selection were clean and easy to navigate so that all the necessary information could be quickly accessed, and we took into account that all the necessary information was actually there. On some websites, it’s hard to find what materials they use; others don’t provide educational materials for people who are new to this type of product, or house maintenance in general. Now more than ever, the online buying experience should also be educational to make up for the absence of face-to-face contact and help consumers make informed decisions.
Replacement Window Pricing
Pricing for replacement windows can be a bit tricky. First, they tend to be more expensive than new construction windows up front, but replacement windows require far less labor.
Secondly, you’ll find yourself having to measure your window spaces, decide on materials, and pay shipping costs depending on where you are.
Considering these complexities, some of the details we valued were retailer’s and manufacturer’s shipping offers, free consultations, transparency and the variety of local contractors they work with, which gives you options when paying for labor.
Warranties
Warranties get complicated really fast, and you’ll have to read the specifics yourself no matter what company or window models you choose. However, we took a first look for you, and we made sure that these companies can back their windows for a long time. We started with the obvious: length of coverage. It can vary from 10 years to a double lifetime, which means that the product remains covered if you sell your house.
Warranties also change with different materials and styles, with some companies only covering certain materials for as little as three years. One constant is separate coverage for the frame and the glass, with the glass getting, for example, 20 years as opposed to the frame’s 10.
While some companies will cover any product for a lifetime, others will offer varying coverage throughout their catalog, limiting specific aspects like transfers or changing period length. Given all this, we favored those that provide the most coverage across the board. Even so, we strongly suggest that you read the warranty documents yourself and never forget the fine print.
Helpful information about Replacement Windows
What Are Replacement Windows?
There are two main types of windows, categorized mainly according to how they’re installed. Although their names are misleading, they are new construction windows (similar to full-frame replacement windows) and insert replacement windows.
New construction windows are thus named because they are installed during the construction (or heavy remodeling) of a home. They are installed directly into the frame of the building itself. When replacing windows through this method, material is removed down to the studs, and a completely new frame is installed. Insert replacement windows, on the other hand, are installed in a pre-existing opening where there is already a frame, and they are either custom-made or bought to fit that opening as precisely as possible. Essentially, new-construction windows require the wall to fit the new window and its frame; replacement windows require the window to fit the wall and its frame.
Why replace windows? Who are replacement windows for?
Due to their ease of installment, replacement windows are pretty much the first choice for anyone looking for a quick and low-cost upgrade to their windows. Since putting up a full new frame costs more because you have to open up walls, this is the best option if you’re not planning a full remodel. It’s a good alternative when you have an older, non-historical home and want to spruce up the look, as well as when an old window breaks and there’s no warranty coverage.
Similarly, if you’re a landlord and need your properties to look their best after some time, replacement windows are a good, inexpensive way to increase both the value of the place and the chances of finding new tenants. Whether it’s making sure that the windows are in tip top shape, keeping up with modern aesthetics, or guaranteeing better protection from the cold, inserting new windows into your frames is a good way to go.
How to measure for replacement windows
Before installing replacement windows, you must ensure the frame is in good shape. Make sure that there is no rot or physical damage that would affect the frame’s ability to hold the replacement window. You should also make sure that the frame is square. You can do this by measuring the window diagonally in both directions and making sure that the measurements are within 1⁄4 inch of one another.
To measure for replacement windows, you need to measure the width of the window at the top, bottom and middle by measuring between both side window jambs (the board that the window slides against) on both sides. Similarly, measure the height of the window by measuring at the left, right and middle of the window from the head jamb (top board of the window) to the sill (the bottom board where the window rests when closed). Finally, ensure that your window depth is at least 3 ¼ inches by measuring the sill from front to back when the window is open.
Use your smallest measurements for your width and height, then round those down to the nearest ⅛ inch. Order your replacement windows using these measurements.
How to install replacement windows
Use the following steps to install and insert replacement windows:
- Remove the old window: Remove the sash (the part of the window that slides). Remove fixed portions by peeling away the glazing bead and heating adhesives to remove the glass carefully. Remove the rest of the window structure either by knocking it loose or using a reciprocating saw. Use a pry bar to remove the window frames.
- Clean the opening: Remove nails, mortar, dust, etc. You may need to cut back the sheetrock to accommodate the new frame. Use flashing tape to prevent moisture damage by overlapping it in each corner all the way around the sheetrock.
- Install the window: Use a level and shims to make sure that the window is square and level. Test that the sashes slide properly. Use 2- to 2 ½-inch screws to connect one side of the window to the frame of the house. If it's still level, connect the other side. Two to three screws on each side should be sufficient.
- Seal gaps: Use a low-expansion foam to seal gaps between the window and frame. Also, add a bead of caulk along the outside edge of the window frame after installation.
What to look for in replacement windows
First, you should consider frame materials. Wood and fiberglass frames are good for insulation, but vinyl can also be functional in this matter and is more widely available for replacement windows. If you schedule a consultation with a replacement window company, you can ask about windows for your situation, such as the best replacement windows for brick homes or the best replacement windows for mobile homes.
You should also decide how many panes of glass you want. Double-pane windows can improve insulation and reduce noise. Triple-pane windows are even better, but they may not be worth the price unless you're located close to a noisy area, such as an airport.
Each option will change the price of your windows. Vinyl windows are more affordable than other frame materials, and installation can add quite a bit to your overall costs. While energy efficiency can cut back on your ongoing energy costs, it will take time to see a return on your windows.
Also, consider warranties. Manufacturers typically include warranties for years to come that protect the window product. However, labor and installation may only be protected for a couple of years. Understand the maintenance requirements necessary to keep your warranty valid. Vinyl windows are a good low-maintenance option.
What to Watch Out for When Buying Replacement Windows
Can energy-efficient replacement windows save me money?
Energy efficiency is one of the most hyped perks of replacement windows. New technology and certain materials can help keep the cold out and the heat in—or vice versa—better than older windows, but the economic benefits can vary greatly by the size of the home, geographical location, the specific product chosen and what type of windows are being upgraded in the first place.
According to Energy Star, replacing uncertified windows with Energy Star products can save you between $27 and $583 per year. Climate and location, though, probably have a stronger impact.
Customers in cold climates benefit more from upgrading to double-pane windows from single-pane and have a higher chance of recovering their initial investment. When changing from double-pane to triple-pane windows, the savings are notably less, especially considering that triple-pane windows are more expensive. If a home already has double-pane windows in good condition, replacing them entirely might not show returns.
Although some claims are exaggerated—and some companies have even gotten in trouble because of it—better insulation and resulting lower energy costs are possible. It will depend on the specific situation and the balance between the aforementioned factors. Homeowners need to do personalized research to see if an entire revamp of their windows will actually be profitable or if it will simply result in cozier holiday mornings.
Replacing Windows on Historical Homes
If you live in a historical house like many do in New England, finding the best replacement windows can be an even bigger challenge. Very few houses are legally protected, but historical preservation is still valuable and can actually be beneficial to homeowners.
A 2010 study comparing a restored window to an added storm window and a replacement window in a 1940 home revealed that the difference in energy costs is small enough to make restoring historical windows and adding protection more cost effective than replacing them entirely.
Moreover, maintaining the authenticity of the house is important, it keeps its market value high and its design coherent. There is also consensus that original wood windows can last longer than newer windows, considering that modern materials are not made to be either long-lasting or restored. The thought that maintaining old windows is expensive has also been debunked. So watch out for eye-catching publicity and consider potential of what you already possess.
FAQs about Replacement Windows
How much does it cost to replace windows?
Window replacement costs can vary widely. Vinyl is generally more affordable than other frame materials, averaging around $500 per window. However, installation and specialty windows can increase these prices drastically. You might estimate paying anywhere up to $1,000 per window for standard window designs.
How often should windows be replaced?
Windows have a lifespan of anywhere between 15 and 30 years. You can check your windows for any structural wear and tear, such as difficulty opening, drafts, fading or warping. You may also choose to replace them if your home has just faced a severe storm, to improve your energy bills, or to improve your home's curb appeal before selling.
Does window glazing or laminate lower visibility?
It’s possible, but recent technology has allowed for windows to reject heat without darkening the window. The NFRC has measurements of Visible Transmittance you can check if daylight is one of your priorities.
Are replacement windows smaller than original windows?
Just a little bit, but yes. Given the fact that insert replacement windows are placed inside an existing frame while having a smaller frame of their own, there will be some downsizing from the original window, although not that noticeable. Full-frame replacement windows don’t have this problem because a brand-new frame is installed into the studs.
Our Replacement Windows Review Summed Up
| Company Name | Why We Picked Them |
|---|---|
| Modernize Replacement Windows | Lets you browse to find companies that understand your window needs, which is especially helpful for people in cold climates who may need specialized knowledge of the area |
| Sunrise Windows and Doors | Includes a variety of vinyl windows that can be customized by color, glass types, hardware and more |
| THE HOME DEPOT® Replacement Windows | Offers affordable windows great for DIY projects, as well as financing to reduce upfront costs |
| Expert Windows Replacement Windows | Allows you to compare energy-efficient windows and save up to 20% off |
| Sears Replacement Windows | Sells a variety of double-pane windows filled with argon insulation to reduce noise and temperature transfers |