Renewal by Andersen is our top pick for best window replacement brand, thanks to its expert installation and reliable long-term performance. If your windows are drafty or driving up energy bills, a full replacement can boost your home’s efficiency, comfort, and curb appeal.
We reviewed 15 of the most popular window brands, focusing on factors that matter most to homeowners, including pricing, product quality, and customer experience. Keep reading to see how each brand compares and find the best fit for your home and budget.
Key Takeaways
- Renewal by Andersen tops our list as the best window replacement brand for its proprietary Fibrex composite material, full-service installation with factory-trained installers, and comprehensive 20-year warranty coverage.
- Window World is the most affordable option with the lowest average per-window cost on our list.
- Based on our 2025 window survey, the average cost of replacement windows is $477, with total project costs of around $6,353, including installation.
Renewal by Andersen
Buy One Window or Door, Get One 40% Off
Pros and Cons
What We Liked
- Features proprietary window frame material that is stronger and more durable than vinyl
- Includes a transferable 20-year warranty on glass and a 10-year warranty on non-glass materials
- Provides full-service window replacement services
Keep in Mind
- Doesn’t sell aluminum, fiberglass, or wood frame windows
- Provides fewer window styles than other brands
Window Styles Offered
Renewal by Andersen offers up to eight window styles, which you can customize to fit your home’s aesthetic. Here is the full list of window styles Renewal by Andersen offers:
- Specialty
- Awning
- Bay
- Bow
- Casement
- Double-hung
- Picture
- Sliding
Compare the Best Window Brands
The following table gives you a side-by-side look at how our top window brands compare based on our star rating, average per-window pricing, and energy efficiency.
| Company | Our Score | Average Price per Window | Energy-Efficiency Certification | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
N/A | Energy Star Partner of the Year 2015–2024 | |||
$474 | Energy Star-certified | |||
$421 | Energy Star partner | |||
$577 | Energy Star partner | |||
$742 | Energy Star-certified | |||
 | $699 | Energy Star-certified | ||
 | $452 | Energy Star-certified | ||
$643 | NFRC-certified |
Our Review of the Top Window Replacement Brands
Our top window brands scored highly in our review for value, performance, selection, service, support, and reputation. We prioritized companies with quality products, strong warranties, a wide range of window options, and proven energy efficiency.
Renewal by Andersen
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Employs certified, factory-trained installers who specialize in Andersen products, which can help reduce errors
- Offers full-service, in-house replacement window installation from consultation to completion
- Uses its patented Fibrex composite material for improved energy efficiency and increased durability
Cons
- Doesn’t offer a lifetime warranty like some other window replacement brands we’ve reviewed
- Has a long installation process, which could result from the custom window manufacturing process
- Provides fewer style and color options compared to other providers on our list
Overview
Renewal by Andersen is a good choice for homeowners who want high-quality, durable replacement windows paired with expert installation. This window brand stands out for its all-inclusive approach, offering free design consultations, custom manufacturing, and reliable post-installation support. The company specially trains its installers on Andersen products to ensure a perfect fit and long-lasting performance. The company’s exclusive Fibrex material combines the energy efficiency of vinyl with the strength and beauty of wood without warping or cracking in heat.
Our Experience
During our firsthand experience shadowing an installation crew in St. Louis, Missouri, we saw the level of professionalism and care each Renewal by Andersen window installer displayed as they removed and installed new windows. The installers double- and triple-checked their measurements to ensure the windows fit properly.
In addition, two of our team members purchased replacement windows from Renewal. Both team members said their assigned installation crews performed the job efficiently and with minimal disruption to their homes during the process.
Product Details
- Material options: Fibrex composite
- Warranty: Limited lifetime transferable
- Energy-efficient options: Yes
- Window styles offered: Awning, bay, bow, casement, double-hung, picture, sliding, and specialty
- Full-service window replacement available: Yes
Champion
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Features Energy Star-certified vinyl replacement windows with Comfort 365 glass for improved energy efficiency and indoor comfort
- Offers a 0% financing option, which helps homeowners manage costs without upfront payments or added interest
- Provides frequent promotions and seasonal deals, which can benefit homeowners with larger projects
Cons
- Doesn’t offer products nationwide, reducing window options for some homeowners
- Only sells vinyl windows, which limits your material choices
- May have slow response times, based on some online customer reviews
Overview
Champion Windows is a good choice for larger window replacement projects thanks to its bundled pricing, frequent discounts, and flexible payment options. Champion offers several budget-friendly options for window replacement, including vinyl windows and in-house financing with 0% down and interest-free loans. Unlike some other providers, Champion includes installation in its pricing, helping to eliminate surprise add-on fees.
During our secret-shopping process, we saw promotions like buy two windows, get two free on the company’s website. This is an appealing option if you’re tackling a full-home project and want to save on costs.
Our Experience
In our firsthand test using a ceramic heat lamp and infrared thermometer, Champion’s Comfort 365 glass maintained a stable temperature, whereas a standard window heated significantly. This test highlighted the glass’s climate-controlling properties, showing how it can help regulate indoor temperatures and improve overall energy efficiency in your home.
Along with testing its products, we also explored the buying process. We used Champion’s free quote tool and found it slightly slower than with other companies, but it offered helpful visuals and allowed us to select how many windows we needed. We appreciated how the company listed discounts for each service upfront. After entering our project details, the tool let us schedule a consultation with our local branch for the next steps.
Product Details
- Material options: Fiberglass, vinyl, and wood
- Warranty: Limited lifetime transferable
- Energy-efficient options: Yes
- Window styles offered: Awning, basement hopper, bay, bow, casement, double-hung, garden, glass block, picture, and shaped
- Full-service window replacement available: Yes
Window World
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Offers the lowest average per window cost in this review
- Provides a large selection of replacement window styles and colors for better customization
- Sells entry and patio doors, siding, shutters, and garage doors, making it a good option for a large-scale home upgrade
Cons
- Limits product selection to vinyl windows only
- Varies pricing based on its franchise locations
- Offers less protection with a limited lifetime warranty
Overview
Window World is a good fit if you want both design flexibility and an all-in-one solution for exterior improvements. The company makes it easy to match your home’s style with a wide range of window designs and color options. The company offers 10 window styles along with 13 interior and 20 exterior colors. It’s a solid pick if you’re planning a larger home upgrade, since it also installs entry and patio doors, storm doors, siding, shutters, and garage doors. With so many options in one place, you can give your entire exterior a fresh, coordinated look.
Our Experience
During our secret shopping, we found that Window World’s quote process is simple. You can fill out an online form, and a representative will contact you to schedule an appointment with a design consultant. The consultant reviews your window options and helps place the order. However, the company’s website offers limited details about its lifetime warranty, unlike other brands that provide full warranty information online.
We also found the company may not cover certain products, such as impact windows, under its standard warranty. This could cause concern for homeowners in storm-prone areas.
Product Details
- Material options: Vinyl
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
- Energy-efficient options: Yes
- Window styles offered: Awning, basement hopper, bay, bow, casement, double-hung, garden, picture, single-hung, sliding, and specialty
- Full-service window replacement available: Yes
Pella
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Offers high-quality window materials, including wood and fiberglass
- Conducts extensive durability and energy-efficiency tests to guarantee performance
- Offers a 10-year Pella Care Guarantee when you purchase replacement windows through a showroom
Cons
- Customer reviews share mixed experiences with installation and customer support
- Offers fewer low-maintenance window options compared to competitors
- Uses local certified contractors, so replacement window installation quality may vary
Overview
With energy-saving features and expert installation through local showrooms, Pella Windows offers reliable, well-crafted replacement windows that perform and look great. Pella has earned a reputation for its high-quality products, including vinyl, fiberglass, and wood window options. The company puts its products through tough in-house testing to make sure they hold up in extreme weather and daily use. Its wood windows come pre-finished, meaning they’re factory-painted or stained before installation for added protection. Its fiberglass frames are built to resist warping, rotting, and corrosion over time.
Our Experience
We researched the Pella quote and installation process and found that the company offers multiple ordering options, including online, in showrooms, and at Lowe’s. You can choose between do-it-yourself (DIY) installation or scheduling a free 90-minute in-home consultation with a Pella expert, who can provide a no-obligation quote.
If you move forward, installation typically takes a few hours to two days depending on the project. Working with a Pella expert qualifies you for the Pella Care Guarantee, which covers product and labor issues for up to 10 years. However, certain styles, like custom or bay and bow windows, require an appointment to order.
Product Details
- Material options: Fiberglass, vinyl, wood, and wood-clad
- Warranty: Limited lifetime transferable
- Energy-efficient options: Yes
- Window styles offered: Angle-top, awning, bay, bi-fold, bow, casement, custom, double-hung, multi-slide, picture, single-hung, sliding, specialty, picture, single-hung, sliding, and speciality
- Full-service window replacement available: Yes
Marvin
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Integrates smart technology through its Marvin Connected Home systems, which work with Alexa, Crestron, and Control4
- Offers high-performance window materials like aluminum-clad wood and its proprietary Ultrex fiberglass
- Provides a wide selection of replacement window styles, including specialty shapes and skylights, to suit custom design needs
Cons
- Doesn’t offer any labor warranties with its products
- Excludes more budget-friendly window materials, including vinyl
- Uses independent dealers for sales and financing, which can lead to inconsistent pricing and terms across locations
Overview
Marvin Windows is a good choice if you’re interested in non-traditional replacement window styles and smart home integration. The company offers a range of specialty options, including skylights and custom-shaped windows, for more creative and flexible designs. It uses high-performance materials like wood, aluminum-clad wood, and its proprietary Ultrex fiberglass, which the company claims is eight times stronger than vinyl. According to Marvin, the company can tailor its windows to suit all major U.S. climate zones, from cold northern winters to hot southern summers. Plus, the company’s Connected Home line integrates with smart systems like Alexa, allowing you to control windows and doors remotely.
Our Experience
Though the Marvin website offers a detailed catalog of products, it doesn’t include interactive shopping features like pricing tools or online configuration options found on other sites. Instead, you get directed to search for local dealers to explore products and request quotes. If you’re looking for replacement windows specifically, the site redirects you to the separate Infinity from Marvin website, where you can request a free in-home consultation.
This extra step of navigating to a separate site for replacements could feel confusing for some homeowners, especially those expecting a more streamlined experience. It also means that much of the shopping process, such as product comparisons, pricing, and installation details, depends on local dealers, which may lead to variations in service and availability.
Product Details
- Material options: Aluminum, fiberglass, and wood
- Warranty: Limited transferable
- Energy-efficiency options: Yes
- Window styles offered: Awning, bay, bow, casement, corner, double-hung, picture, single-hung, skylight, sliding, and specialty
- Full-service window replacement available: No
Milgard
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Designs replacement windows made to withstand harsh climates
- Provides full lifetime and limited lifetime warranties for its products
- Manufactures windows in-house, allowing for better quality control and faster turnaround times
Cons
- Doesn’t offer in-house installations
- Has one of the smallest service areas in this review
- Offers inconsistent service quality through its retailers, based on customer reviews
Overview
If you live in an area with extreme temperatures, Milgard Windows could offer a good fit for your home. The Tuscany Series uses a specially engineered vinyl that holds up well over time, while the Ultra Series features tough fiberglass frames that resist warping and weather damage. Both lines include energy-saving features like dual or triple panes, low emissivity (low-e) coatings, and argon gas fills to help keep indoor temperatures steady. Overall, these windows combine long-term durability with improved insulation for homes in demanding environments.
Our Experience
During our secret shopping, we tested Milgard’s online experience and quote process. The company offers specialized guidance for project planning for replacement windows, including resources on color and style selection, budget setting, energy tax credits, architectural styles, and more. Milgard even provides an innovative Inspiration Center visualizer tool in which you can add windows to provided sample homes or upload photos of your own to see how different options look in your space.
Milgard lets you request a free in-home consultation or quote via an online form, phone, or using the company’s dealer locator. You begin by entering your project ZIP code to find certified dealers in your area. The online form captures details like project type, number of windows and doors, timeframe, and material preference. A local dealer then follows up to offer customized guidance, measurements, product selection, and pricing.
Product Details
- Material options: Aluminum, fiberglass, and vinyl
- Warranty: Full lifetime and limited lifetime (varies by product)
- Energy-efficient options: Yes
- Window styles offered: Awning, casement, double-hung, picture, slider, single-hung, and specialty
- Full-service window replacement available: No
Jeld-Wen
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Available for purchase at major hardware retailers, offering convenience for DIYers and contractors
- Offers vinyl, wood, and aluminum replacement windows to fit a range of budgets and design preferences
- Sold nationwide in all 50 U.S. states and Washington, D.C.
Cons
- Pricing may vary between different locations and retail stores
- Offers shorter warranties than other companies we’ve reviewed
- Provides limited information on its installers and contractors
Overview
Jeld-Wen is known for its accessibility and affordability, making it a solid choice for DIY enthusiasts. With products available at major retail stores nationwide, homeowners can purchase replacement windows without long wait times or complicated orders. Offering vinyl, wood, and aluminum options, Jeld-Wen provides a range of choices to fit various budgets and home styles. Its competitive pricing makes it ideal for budget-conscious homeowners who want a reliable and convenient window solution.
Our Experience
While reviewing the JELD-WEN website, we learned that the company provides detailed product information and helpful tools, including a window comparison feature to guide your selection. Although you can’t place an order or get a quote directly online, the site allows you to search for local dealers or retailers and includes a state-by-state breakdown of distributors to make finding a supplier easier.
We also found that JELD-WEN doesn’t offer instant online quotes for homeowners. Instead, you’ll need to fill out the “Get Help for Your Project” form or use the dealer locator to share details like your project type, number of windows, and ZIP code. A local dealer or contractor will then follow up to provide a custom quote based on your needs and measurements.
Product Details
- Material options: Aluminum-clad wood, composite, vinyl, and wood
- Warranty: Limited lifetime
- Energy-efficient options: Yes
- Window styles offered: Awning, bay, bow, casement, double-hung, fixed, single-hung, and sliding
- Full-service window replacement available: No
Loewen Windows
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Offers high-quality custom wood window design options
- Provides several energy efficiency features, including double-glazed windows with low-e glass coatings
- Uses luxury wood, such as mahogany and white oak, for its products
Cons
- Carries a higher price tag compared to more budget-friendly replacement window options
- Has longer wait times for production and installation than some other companies
- Requires more maintenance and upkeep for its products compared to other materials
Overview
Loewen Windows stands out for its luxury replacement windows, offering high-quality custom wood designs tailored to each homeowner’s specific needs. The company specializes in premium materials, including coastal Douglas fir, Honduran mahogany, and white oak, providing a sophisticated and elegant look for any home. With energy-efficient features such as double-glazed windows and low-e glass coatings, Loewen balances aesthetics with performance.
Our Experience
We found that the Loewen website doesn’t offer the interactive features found on some competitor sites, like allowing you to switch between material types or preview customized options. However, it does provide detailed product information along with swatches of available finishes and colors to help guide your selection.
The company also doesn’t offer instant online pricing or quoting tools. Instead, you’re directed to the “Find a Dealer” page, where you can locate a certified builder or dealer based on your ZIP code. After submitting your information, a local dealer will contact you to discuss your project, take measurements, and provide a personalized quote for Loewen’s premium wood window products. Because installation and quoting are handled entirely by independent dealers, the process is highly tailored to your needs, but you will need to wait for direct consultation and follow-up to receive pricing.
Product Details
- Material options: Aluminum, bronze-clad, copper-clad, and wood
- Warranty: Limited transferable
- Energy-efficient options: Yes
- Window styles offered: Awning, casement, double-hung, picture, and single-hung
- Full-service window replacement available: No
How To Tell If You Need To Replace Your Windows
Knowing when it’s time for a window replacement can save you money on energy bills, improve indoor comfort, and enhance your home’s curb appeal. Here’s a list of signs you may need to install new, energy-efficient windows:
- Drafts and uneven temperatures: Feeling a cold breeze in winter or added heat in summer, even when your windows are closed, often means the seals are worn out.
- High energy bills: If your heating and cooling costs keep climbing, your windows may no longer effectively insulate your home.
- Fog or condensation between panes: This typically indicates a broken seal in double- or triple-pane glass, reducing energy efficiency.
- Visible wear and damage: Cracked frames, rotting wood, or broken glass signal it’s time for full window replacement.
- Windows are hard to open or close: Warped frames or damaged tracks make windows difficult to operate and can become a safety concern.
How Much Do Replacement Windows Cost?
Replacement window costs typically range from $400–$900 per unit, with an average price of $477 per window based on our survey of 1,000 homeowners nationwide. Sliding windows, chosen by 25% of our survey respondents, generally cost around $507 per unit. On average, homeowners in our survey purchased six windows, with total project costs of around $6,353.
Factors Affecting Replacement Window Costs
Some factors affect the price of replacement windows more than others. For example, the type of window and frame material will usually determine total costs more than the glass type you choose.
Labor costs may also rise in 2025 due to a shortage of skilled tradespeople and higher construction expenses. As a result, homeowners should expect both higher installation fees and potentially longer project timelines.
Below, we detail the main factors that influence replacement window costs.
Type of Window
The type of window you buy is the biggest factor affecting replacement costs. Larger windows with multiple panes and design features, like bow windows, usually cost more than smaller, simpler windows. When shopping for new windows, consider both the look you want and the functionality it provides, such as added light, ventilation, or curb appeal.
The table below shows the average prices our survey respondents reported paying for the type of windows they purchased.
| Window Type | Average Cost Per Window |
|---|---|
| Awning | $514 |
| Bay | $886 |
| Casement | $560 |
| Double-hung | $495 |
| Picture | $419 |
| Slider | $507 |
Frame Material
Vinyl frames are typically the most affordable option due to their low manufacturing and maintenance costs, while aluminum is also budget-friendly but offers less insulation. Fiberglass, wood, and composite frames tend to cost more because of their superior durability, energy efficiency, and aesthetic appeal.
In our 2025 windows survey, 38% of homeowners selected fiberglass and 23% chose composite, compared to 29% for vinyl and 25% for aluminum. These responses suggest that performance, energy savings, and longevity drive many purchase decisions, not just price alone.
Glass Type
All of the brands we feature in this review offer double-pane glass, which is more affordable and performs well in most climates. In fact, 80% of homeowners in our survey chose double-pane windows for their recent upgrade. Just 11% of homeowners opted for triple-pane glass—likely due to the added cost. However, you may find triple-pane glass worth considering if you live in areas with extreme heat or cold where extra insulation can make a noticeable difference.
Installation Method
Full-frame installation, which involves removing the entire window and frame, typically costs more than insert installation, where the new window fits into the existing frame. In addition, complex window styles, like bow, bay, or picture windows, often require extra labor, customization, or structural support, which increases installation costs.
Warranty Options
We recommend choosing a company that offers both a window warranty and an installation warranty, as this combination delivers the best value and long-term protection for your investment. While products with comprehensive coverage may cost more upfront, they can save you hundreds or even thousands by protecting against defects in materials and workmanship. This helps guarantee your windows perform as intended for years without unexpected repair expenses.
According to our 2025 homeowner survey, 39% of respondents received both hardware and labor warranties, while 34% received only a hardware warranty and 12% received only a labor warranty. These findings are a good reminder to double-check that your new windows come with coverage for both the product and the installation.
Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient windows can make your home more comfortable while lowering heating and cooling costs. Many top models feature double or triple-pane glass, low-e coatings, and argon gas fills, which may cost more upfront but offer long-term savings and protection against ultraviolet (UV) damage. In our 2025 survey, 37% of homeowners requested energy-efficient or low-e coatings, and 34% added UV protection—two of the most common upgrades. Each brand featured in this guide has solid Energy Star ratings and is rated by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC).
The Most Common Types of Windows
When choosing new windows, it’s important to understand the most popular styles, how each one functions, and where they’re typically used. Below is a quick overview of the most common window types based on our 2025 window survey.
What Real Homeowners Say About Window Replacement
We spoke with 15 homeowners who recently replaced their windows to understand what surprised them about the process, what they wish they’d known, and what they’d do differently. We’ve compiled the most valuable takeaways from those conversations below.
Product Demos and Samples Really Matter
In-home consultations have a significant impact on the buying process. In fact, 100% of homeowners said their window consultations were helpful. What stood out most was that 60% of homeowners we spoke with received hands-on product samples or demos, and more than half saw heat or insulation demonstrations. These experiences gave homeowners greater confidence in their decisions and made technical differences easier to understand.
Quotes Were Often Better Than Expected
Although replacement windows can get expensive, many homeowners were pleasantly surprised by their final project costs. About 67% said the price they received met or beat their expectations, and 80% received fully itemized quotes. This shows that today’s buyers care less about the lowest bid and more about transparent, clearly broken-down pricing.
Most Installations Had Minor Issues
About 67% of homeowners reported experiencing at least one minor issue during their window installation, such as wood rot or misaligned frames. These problems are usually manageable but can affect the final quality if not addressed quickly. Ask your installer how they handle unexpected issues so you’re prepared if complications come up.
Some Homeowners Would Choose a Different Material Next Time
Even with an overall satisfaction rate of 93%, some homeowners would make a different choice if they could buy their windows again. Around one-third said they’d choose another material—most often fiberglass instead of vinyl. The takeaway: long-term durability and aesthetics may matter more than expected.
Real Energy Savings Were Reported
About 87% of homeowners said their energy bills dropped by 15%–25% after installing new windows, and 60% said their homes also felt more comfortable or quieter. These results show that energy-efficient windows can deliver measurable, everyday benefits.
- Around 33% of the homeowners we interviewed reported feeling overwhelmed by the numerous window choices available, including frame materials, finishes, and custom options. You can simplify the process by prioritizing one or two must-have features and working with a consultant who can clearly explain the trade-offs.
How To Choose the Right Replacement Windows
When choosing windows for your home, it’s not just about the look—it’s about getting the right balance of durability, energy savings, and long-term value. Below, we highlight some key factors to consider while shopping for your next window upgrade.
- Certifications: Look for windows with Energy Star and National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) certifications. These labels confirm that windows meet strict standards for quality and performance, providing key metrics such as the U-factor, which measures how well a window prevents heat loss.
- Reputation and reviews: Select installers with proven experience and consistently positive customer reviews. Read online customer reviews and look for patterns of clear communication, prompt problem resolution, and honoring warranties.
- Professional Standards: We recommend working with companies that clearly outline their installation process, hold necessary state licenses, and carry liability insurance to protect against accidents or property damage.
- Product selection and warranty coverage: Consider companies that offer the styles, frame materials, and customization options that fit your design and energy goals. Review the warranty to see what it covers, how long it lasts, and whether coverage applies to both materials and installation.
Questions To Ask Window Companies
When we interviewed homeowners about their window replacement experience, 73% said their initial appointment lasted between 60 and 120 minutes. To make the most of this time, it’s important to come prepared. Asking the right questions can help you choose a reliable installer and avoid surprises down the line.
- Do you offer free estimates and consultations?: Confirm whether the installer charges extra for the initial appointment.
- What brands do you carry, and do you offer energy-efficient options?: Look for features like low-e coatings, multiple panes, gas fills, and Energy Star ratings to help reduce heating and cooling bills.
- What is included in the quote, and do you handle permits and inspections?: Ask if the estimate includes old window removal, trim work, permits, and warranties. A detailed breakdown can help you avoid unexpected charges in the future.
- Are your installers certified or factory-trained?: Installers need proper training to ensure proper window installation and to maintain warranty protection.
- What warranties do you offer on both windows and installation?: A solid warranty should cover both the product and the labor. Ask what the company’s coverage includes and how long it lasts.
- How long will the window replacement project take?: Timelines vary depending on the number of windows, but understanding the duration can help you plan around potential disruptions.
- Can I see examples of past projects or speak with references?: Verified reviews and completed project photos give insight into the company’s workmanship and customer service. Show caution if the company won’t share references.
- How do you handle issues after installation or unexpected problems, such as structural damage?: Whether it’s air leaks, water intrusion, or unexpected damage during the job, you’ll want a clear process for how the company handles repairs and follow-up service.
Quick Tip
- Although 100% of interviewed homeowners said cleanup was included with their window installation, only 60% said their furniture and floors were protected. We recommend confirming that your installer includes both in your quote before work begins.
What We Learned From Our Ride-Along With Renewal by Andersen
One of our team members spent a day on-site with a Renewal by Andersen installation crew to see what really happens during a professional window replacement. While most homeowners focus on choosing the right brand or window style, the installation experience can really make or break the project. From prep work and property impact to common surprises and professional workarounds, here are a few things homeowners might not realize but should know before installation day.
Homeowner Checklists Actually Help
Installers appreciate it when homeowners communicate clearly and share an installation checklist, whether it’s instructions about pets, moving furniture, or access to certain areas. Providing a list ahead of time can help your installers avoid surprises. Your list could include specific requests like keeping a gate closed or not using the garage. Overcommunicating helps installers stay efficient and respectful of your space.
Installation Goes Beyond the Window Frame
Window installation crews often use parts of your garage or driveway to cut materials like flashing and trim. Installers may park a trailer in the driveway, and place bins around your home for cleanup. Installers move through several parts of the home during the process, and will temporarily occupy certain spaces. As a result, homeowners should expect some disruption during installation beyond just the window openings.
Weather Doesn’t Always Delay the Job
Even if it rains, installation usually continues. Crews may adapt by staging windows from inside the home or using garage space for cutting. This flexibility helps crews stay on schedule unless the weather is severe.
Mismeasurements Aren’t Always a Dealbreaker
If there’s a mismeasurement, seasoned installers can sometimes fix it as long as the size is within an inch of what was ordered. Otherwise, the best solution is to reorder the window. On-the-job adjustments can save time, but only work within a small margin. Accurate measurement upfront is still essential.
Sticking With the Same Brand Makes a Difference
Aligning your new windows with your previous brand can help make installation smoother. Matching sizing and frame style can help reduce the need for extra adjustments during installation. During our ride-along, installers told us that switching brands can sometimes complicate the fit. Keeping the same brand minimizes those risks.
FAQs About the Best Window Brands
What is the best window brand for energy efficiency?
Many top brands, including Renewal by Andersen, Pella, and Marvin, offer Energy Star-certified windows with features such as low-e glass, argon or krypton gas fills, and insulated frames. Some product lines are tailored to specific climate zones to maximize energy savings. To find the best fit for your home, compare NFRC ratings like U-factor, to find the right fit for your home.
How do I choose the best replacement windows for my home?
To choose replacement windows, start by considering your budget, home style, and specific needs, such as energy efficiency, durability, or noise reduction. Look for reputable brands, compare warranties, and ensure the company you choose offers the windows you prefer. If you need help selecting windows for your home, talk with a company representative for specific guidance.
How often do you need to replace windows?
Windows generally need replacing every 15–30 years, depending on the materials, weather conditions, and overall maintenance. If you notice drafts, difficulty opening or closing the window, condensation between the panes, or higher energy bills, it’s a good sign you need replacements.
Which type of frame material should I choose for my replacement windows?
Each window frame material has pros and cons. Vinyl is affordable and low-maintenance, wood offers a classic aesthetic and natural insulation, and fiberglass provides exceptional durability and energy efficiency. Your choice depends on your priorities and budget.
What are the most efficient replacement windows?
Reputable brands such as Renewal by Andersen and Castle offer highly rated energy-efficient options designed to reduce heat loss and improve comfort. Energy-efficient replacement windows typically have double or triple glass panes, low-e coatings, and argon or krypton gas fills.
How much should you spend on replacement windows?
Most homeowners spend between $400 and $900 per replacement window, with an average cost of $477, based on our 2025 survey of homeowners nationwide. Pricing depends on the brand, materials, and features. Spending more upfront on durable, energy-efficient models can pay off in energy savings and fewer repairs in the future.
How do I get a quote from a window brand?
To get a quote from a window brand, you can fill out an online form, schedule a free in-home consultation, or call customer service for an estimate. During the consultation, a representative will measure your windows and discuss options to provide an accurate quote. We recommend comparing quotes from at least three different companies to find the best pricing and installation options.
Which company is better, Pella or Andersen?
When comparing Pella versus Andersen, the best option ultimately depends on your specific needs and preferences. Pella is known for its wide range of energy-efficient options and custom designs, while Andersen excels in durable materials and high-performance testing. If you’re looking for a more budget-friendly option with reliable energy efficiency, Pella might work best. However, if long-term durability and premium quality are your priorities, Andersen may better fit your home.
Our Research Process
To identify the best window brands of 2025, we used a multi-step evaluation process:
- Consumer insights: Our team surveyed 1,000 homeowners nationwide who have purchased windows in the past two years.
- Customer feedback: We analyzed more than 1,500 verified reviews on sites like the BBB and Trustpilot.
- Direct research: We requested quotes and product information from top national providers, including Renewal by Andersen.
- Expert input: Our team consulted with licensed contractors and industry professionals to learn more about the most important features when shopping for windows.
- Secret shopping: We assessed service quality and pricing transparency firsthand to get a better idea of the buying process.
With these steps, our methodology prioritizes real-world performance, customer satisfaction, and long-term value.
Our Rating Methodology
The This Old House Team backs up our window ratings and recommendations with a detailed rating methodology to objectively score each provider. We conduct research by speaking with company representatives, browsing product selections, analyzing window line specifications, and conducting focus groups and consumer surveys. We then score each provider against our review standards for window variety, value, trustworthiness and transparency, window features, and customer service to arrive at a final score on a 5-point rating scale.
