Best Window Companies

  • Renewal by Andersen
    4.7(2,152)
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    4.9(178)
  • Champion Windows and Home Exteriors
    4.7(460)

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    There are several reasons you might be considering replacing your windows, though functionality is likely one of the biggest factors. When old windows no longer open and close easily, you become more vulnerable to weather damage and security issues.

    Dated windows may also start to look shabby, detracting from your home’s curb appeal. Some old windows develop so much condensation between the panes of glass that full natural light can’t get through. No matter your reason for an upgrade, read on for the best window brands today, average window replacement costs and more.

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      Windows buyer's guide

      A window update is a major renovation, and the cost of window replacement can be high. To make it worth it, you’ll need to keep a few things in mind when selecting a window replacement company.

      The first thing to take into account is your location and climate (e.g., how frequently you get extreme temperatures and weather events). You’ll also want to think about your budget (for both windows and installation), energy efficiency factors, warranty coverage, maintenance, and style and color (the fun part).

      When to replace your windows

      The consensus among installers and manufacturers is that replacement windows last 20 to 30 years. How long yours last depends on a number of factors, including the material they’re made of, weather conditions, how much you use the windows and how well you maintain them.

      Vinyl windows require the least care and stand up to the harshest cold-weather conditions, but wood windows can last just as long with proper care.

      Replacing old windows can have multiple benefits. Edie of Michigan, who lives in a 110-year-old house, told us seasonal cleaning of her old wood-sash and metal storm windows was a real chore.

      “Mainly for my partner, who had become our dedicated window washer,” she said. “Finally, in spring of 2021 I said, that’s it; I’m getting pricing on new windows.”

      The new windows tilt in for easy cleaning, and they have fitted screens to keep insects out during summer months. But the real bonus is that they’re fully functional. “I had never opened a window in the kitchen,” Edie said. Her old ones were painted shut.

      Signs that it’s time for replacement windows include the following:

      • Loss of structural integrity
      • Loss of functionality
      • Notable airflow when closed
      • Shabby appearance
      • Condensation
      • Noise

      Types of windows

      Windows come in several different shapes, styles and sizes. Depending on the style of your home and your budget, you may have a specific style of window in mind. This isn’t an exhaustive list, but typical window options on the market today include:

      • Double-hung windows: With two sashes that slide up and down independently, double-hung windows are the most popular type of residential window sold today.
      • Casement windows: Popular on contemporary-style homes, casement windows crank open and are particularly well-suited for hard-to-reach installations, such as in front of a kitchen sink.
      • Bay windows: These windows project from the house at an angle to provide wide-angle views and architectural interest.
      • Bow windows: Projecting out from the house in a gentle arch, bow windows provide a panoramic view of the outdoors.
      • Picture windows: Picture windows are stationary windows that add great views and aesthetic value — but they don’t open. They’re often flanked by narrow casements or double-hung units.
      • Hopper windows: Tilt-in hopper windows are typically installed in basements and crawl spaces. The narrow sash locks at the top and tips in toward the interior when unlatched.

      Types of window frame materials

      With windows, material is just as important as style. This is where your budget is going to come into play.

      Ask the company you’re buying from what material is best for the climate you live in and what’s in your price range. Window materials have come a long way in terms of durability and energy efficiency, and there are several options to choose from.

      • Vinyl: Vinyl windows are affordable and low-maintenance, and they have good insulation properties and are resistant to rot and insects. Some downsides of vinyl are that there are typically limited color options and they can warp or become brittle over time if exposed to very hot sunlight.
      • Wood: Windows made from wood can be on the pricier side, but they can give your home a traditional appearance, and you can paint or stain wood windows to match the aesthetic of your home. They also offer great insulation. Before selecting wood windows, know that they require regular maintenance and upkeep to ensure they aren’t ruined by rotting or insects. With the proper care, though, wood windows should last a long time.
      • Aluminum: The main advantages of aluminum windows are that they’re more affordable than wood, lightweight, durable and easily customizable. However, many choose not to use aluminum because it isn’t a great insulator and doesn’t hold up to heat.
      • Fiberglass: Fiberglass windows mimic the look of wood, but they’re more low-maintenance. Fiberglass has one of the highest insulation ratings, making it very energy efficient. These windows also have thinner frames and hold up well in extreme temperatures. Keep in mind that fiberglass will typically have a higher upfront cost and that installation can be a little bit trickier due to the material being rigid.
      • Clad: Wood-clad windows give you the look of wood windows without the upkeep. They’re solid wood frames with aluminum, fiberglass or vinyl cladding or coating. Clad windows are low maintenance, customizable and durable. However, they’re more expensive than others.
      • Composite: Composite windows are another high-cost option. Like clad, they combine materials to create a more durable window frame. They’re made from a combination of wood, metal and vinyl. Composite windows are energy efficient and resistant to rotting and warping.

      How much do new windows cost?

      How much window replacement will cost you depends on lots of variables. There’s a lot of misleading cost advice out there, according to Andrii Gurskyi of Mr. Glazier, a window replacement company in New York. “Most sources don’t include installation costs,” he said. “This leads to surprise costs for customers.”

      You can expect to see a difference in the cost of standard sizes versus custom sizes.

      “The starting price for a custom window is no less than $400, plus installation costs of a minimum of $350 per window. However, it is important to note that these are just estimates, and homeowners should seek quotes from multiple vendors or contractors for a more accurate cost analysis,” Gurskyi said.

      Whether you go with standard or custom sizes, installation costs are likely to be the same — and they very much depend on the cost of labor in your area. Gurskyi emphasized the huge range in window costs: “Based on average prices in the New York City market provided by contractors, the cost of replacing a single window ranges from $700 to $3,000.”

      Keep in mind that New York City is costlier in general than rural areas due to higher labor, transportation, storage and parking costs. Costs also tend to be higher in places that see severe weather conditions because of the need for sturdier materials and specialized installation techniques, Gurskyi said.

      Other factors that affect the cost of replacement include the window material, style and size. Wooden windows tend to be the most expensive, while vinyl is the most affordable. Edie, the homeowner in Michigan, paid $2,000 (not including installation) for six vinyl windows that were all the same size: 34 inches by 62 inches. She opted for vinyl because she “wanted well-insulated, double-paned, double-hung” windows.

      How to choose a window installer

      Most homeowners need an installer for their new windows. To find the best option, ask around — referrals from local friends and neighbors are best because you want an installer familiar with local building codes.

      Here are a few quick tips for finding a good installer:

      • Ask for referrals from friends and neighbors.
      • Read customer reviews on sites like ConsumerAffairs.
      • Look for affiliations with reputable window manufacturers.

      Once you’ve narrowed your list, it’s time to ask each installer a few more specific questions:

      • Is the installer licensed and insured?
      • Has the installer been trained or certified to install particular brands?
      • How many years of experience with windows does the installer have?

      Understanding window warranties

      Before deciding on a window installer, it’s important that you fully understand their warranty policy. Window warranties will vary from manufacturer to manufacturer, but they typically cover signs of wear and tear or deterioration within a specific time frame.

      For example, the manufacturer may guarantee that the windows they sell will last 15 years. If something malfunctions or breaks before that time is up, the warranty will cover it.

      Some warranties cover parts, hardware and labor; others won’t. Some cover glass and others don’t. The lifetime coverage for some windows may be longer than others, depending on the quality or material of the windows.

      And the list goes on. Beware that the wording of warranties can get confusing — here are some questions to ask the manufacturer before you purchase your windows:

      • What is the length of the warranty?
      • What is covered in the warranty? Is installation covered?
      • How quickly will someone be able to come to fix the problem?
      • Is there a service fee for someone to come out to fix the window?
      • Can the warranty be transferred if I sell my house?

      FAQ

      What kind of windows are the most energy efficient?

      According to the U.S. Department of Energy, the most important factor for energy-efficient windows is the glazing. While vintage windows were single-glazed, new replacement windows are available with double- and even triple-glazed options (also referred to as double-pane or triple-pane windows).

      An easy way to make an energy-efficient choice when shopping is to look for the Energy Star label. You may also be eligible for a tax credit after you purchase Energy Star-certified windows.

      Should I replace my windows all at once?

      If you can afford the upfront cost, there are benefits to replacing your windows all at once. If all the windows look the same, your curb appeal is likely to shoot up, and the windows will age at the same rate.

      It will also save you money. The cost of a window replacement project typically includes structural repairs to rotted frames, insulation and waterproofing, and it’s more efficient to tackle these as a single project. Then there’s the disposal of construction debris and other cleanup costs. When you replace windows piecemeal, you pay these costs multiple times.

      If it’s not in the budget to replace windows all at once, break the project up. Replace ground-floor windows in round one and second-story windows a few years later. Or, if curb appeal is your goal, do the front windows first. And if only one or two windows are giving you trouble, it might make sense to get a quote from a handyman.

      Should I hire a company to replace my windows?

      You can pay the company you purchase to do the installation, or you can hire a general contractor. The best option for you depends on your project.

      If your replacement windows are the same size as the old windows and if you’re not dealing with major construction issues, such as wood rot or leaks, a window installation company certified by the manufacturer should have the technical expertise to do the job right — plus you can count on the company to return if there’s a problem.

      However, if there are larger construction issues with your home or if you’re changing the configuration of window openings, it could make sense to hire a trusted contractor to take care of everything. The main priority is to ensure whatever installer you hire is licensed and insured and has the experience and skills to do the job. Ask friends and neighbors for referrals, check reviews online, and get references before signing a contract.

      What is the average age to replace windows?

      Windows last from 20 to 30 years. The climate you live in, the window material and how well you maintain them will play into the overall life span.

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