Best Replacement Windows | 2024 Guide
All products and services featured are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Choosing the right replacement windows enhances both the look and the functionality of your home. Not only will replacement windows improve your home’s curb appeal, they also eliminate the draftiness caused by your current windows, which may be raising your energy bills. Our team spent hundreds of hours researching more than 15 window manufacturers and installers. We found that the best companies offer a robust collection of windows and features such as low-emissivity (low-e) glass to increase energy efficiency and high-quality frame material such as fiberglass to ensure longevity.
Our top rated company for the best replacement windows is Renewal by Andersen. We rated the company 4.9 out of 5 stars due to its quality products, including its energy-efficient glass and durable Fibrex window materials. We recommend Renewal by Andersen if you want a quality replacement window that is built to last. If Renewal by Andersen isn’t right for you, our guide includes five other best window brands we recommend.
Get Estimates From Local Window Experts
Just answer a few questions, and we'll take care of the rest.
Window Replacement Cost
Replacement windows on average range from $300 to $1,200.
Single-Hung Windows
Single-hung windows on average cost $150 to $400 per window.
Energy Efficient Upgrades
Double-pane installation typically ranges from $450 to $1,000 per window.
The Best Replacement Window Companies of 2024
We spent over 100 hours researching the window industry within the last year. We crafted a ranking system based on the factors we thought were most important to consumers, including reputation, cost and value, customer satisfaction, and services offered.
Here are the best replacement windows for your home according to our rating methodology:
- Best Selection: Renewal by Andersen
- Best for Sunrooms: Champion Windows
- Best for Coastal Homes: Marvin Windows
- Best Warranty: Castle Windows
- Best for Eco-Friendly Windows: Pella
- Best for Renovations: Power Home Remodeling
Compare the Top-Rated Companies for Replacement Windows
See the table below to compare the top companies for window replacement. Though Renewal by Andersen costs are more expensive than other window brands on our list, the company also earned the highest rating when tested against our methodology, signifying the highest ROI in the long run.
| Company | Star Rating | Best For | Price Range | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Best Selection | $680-$2,700 | GET ESTIMATE | ||
| Best for Sunrooms | $400-$850 | GET ESTIMATE | ||
| Best for Coastal Homes | $250-$900 | GET ESTIMATE | ||
| Best Warranty | $300-$500 | GET ESTIMATE | ||
| Best Eco-Friendly Windows | $450-$2,000 | GET ESTIMATE | ||
| Best Renovations | $450–$2,000 | GET ESTIMATE |
Renewal by Andersen Windows
Best Selection
State availability: 49 states (excluding Hawaii)
Warranty options: Transferable limited warranty
Price range: $680–$2,700
Renewal by Andersen, a subsidiary of Andersen Windows, offers a full line of replacement window options. Renewal by Andersen also installs its window products, eliminating the need for a third-party installer. We spoke with a Renewal by Andersen representative about what makes its installation services superior and learned that the installation team has multiple checkpoints to ensure correct measurements. Installers also lay drop cloths throughout the home to prevent debris on the floor, fully clean the window and space after installation, and dispose of all old windows for you.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Is available in 49 states
- Makes eco-friendly frames and energy-efficient glass options
- Provides a 20-year transferable limited warranty for frames and glass
Cons
- Has long installation wait times, according to some customer reviews
- Has higher pricing than most competitors
- Only sells vinyl windows
What We Like
Renewal by Andersen’s catalog includes composite windows made from their signature Fibrex material, a combination of 60% thermoplastic polymer and 40% recycled wood fiber. The company states that Fibrex windows are twice as durable as vinyl windows and can last 20 to 40 years.Renewal by Anderson offers a selection of ENERGY STAR-certified, low-emissivity (low-e) glass options, which use a special coating to protect your home from extreme outdoor temperatures.
Windows Offered
Renewal by Andersen carries the following window types:
- Awning
- Bay and Bow
- Casement
- Double-Hung
- Picture
- Sliding
- Specialty
Champion Windows
Best for Sunrooms
State availability: 27*
Warranty Options: Limited lifetime warranty
Price range: $400–$1,000
Champion Windows stands out for its custom all-season and three-season sunrooms, which it integrates with its windows and doors. The company also carries an exclusive line of new and replacement vinyl windows. Vinyl is cost-effective, low-maintenance, and resistant to fading, cracking, and warping.
*Available in Alabama, Arkansas, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Montana, Nebraska, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, Utah, Washington, and Wisconsin.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Provides a 0% financing option
- Offers generous discounts regularly
- Is a full-service installer
Cons
- Doesn’t operate nationwide
- Only sells vinyl and aluminum windows
- Varies pricing by location
What We Like
Champion offers several energy-efficient windows that have the company’s patented Comfort 365 Window Glass. These windows block 94% of UV rays from entering your home without restricting natural light. They have double-pane glass with a low-e coating and argon gas in between for added insulation. Homeowners can customize their windows with a selection of colors and wood finishes, giving the classic look of wood windows without the higher price tag.
We like that each of Champions windows are backed by a comprehensive limited lifetime warranty that covers parts, labor, installation, and materials. This is a rare perk; in our survey of 1,000 homeowners, only 7% received lifetime warranties for their new windows. Champion most stands out for its 0% financing option, which is uncommon in the window industry.
Windows Offered
Champion Windows offers these window options:
- Awning
- Basement Hopper
- Bay and Bow
- Casement
- Double-Hung
- Garden
- Glass Block
- Picture
- Sliding
- Specialty
Marvin Windows
Best for Coastal Homes
State availability: 50
Warranty options: Limited warranties
Price range: $400–$1,700
Marvin Windows is well-known for its fiberglass home windows, but it also offers high-quality wood and extruded aluminum options. Its catalog includes wood windows with fiberglass exteriors, balancing elegance with durability. Fiberglass windows are low-maintenance and sturdy but cost more than vinyl alternatives. Marvin windows are protected with several limited warranties of varying lengths. The limited 10-year warranty covers manufacturing defects, and the 20-year warranty covers the window glass.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Is one of the few brands selling skylights
- Carries only ENERGY-STAR-certified windows
- Distributes windows nationwide
Cons
- Doesn’t have an in-house installation team
- Doesn’t sell vinyl windows
- Has limited warranty coverage compared to some competitors
What We Like
Marvin has three collections with replacement window options. The basic Marvin Essential Collection pairs the company’s signature Ultrex pultruded fiberglass frame with a clean design that suits most homes. The Marvin Elevate series has windows with durable fiberglass exteriors and rich wood interiors. The luxury Marvin Signature Collection offers the largest selection of wood, wood-clad, and fiberglass windows with the most customizable options.
We spoke with a Marvin representative about perks many customers aren’t aware of and learned the company provides extensive architectural assistance. This is valuable since the homeowners we surveyed cited appearance among their top reasons for replacing their windows. You can connect with one of Marvin’s Architectural Project Managers to thoughtfully walk through your project design.
Windows Offered
Marvin Windows offers these window options:
- Arched
- Awning
- Bay and Bow
- Casement
- Double-Hung
- Single-Hung
- Sliding
- Specialty
Castle Windows
Best Warranty
State availability: 11*
Warranty options: Transferable lifetime warranty
Price range: $200–$900
Castle Windows is a customer-focused, family-run company with a catalog of quality products. Its custom-made vinyl windows are cost-effective and offer a superior fit. Although the company is only available in 11 states, those living in its service area can benefit from excellent customer service, according to reviews. We’re impressed that Castle’s product line includes an extensive transferable lifetime warranty covering the window glass, parts, components, and workmanship, plus free labor on all services. We also like that the company clearly lists its industry licenses and registrations on its website.
*Available in Connecticut, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Has an in-house installation team
- Provides a true lifetime warranty
- Has fixed pricing for all distributors
Cons
- Doesn’t make single-hung windows
- Isn’t operable nationwide
- Only offers vinyl windows
What We Like
We like that Castle’s vinyl windows come in various styles, including classic window styles such as double-hung and casement windows. Customers looking for more decorative options can replace their old windows with an elegant bay or bow option. The company also offers a selection of energy-efficient windows designed to lower your energy bills over time.
Windows Offered
Castle Windows offers these window options:
- Awning
- Basement Hopper
- Bay and Bow
- Casement
- Double-Hung
- Garden
- Sliding
- Specialty
- Transom
Pella Windows
Best Eco-Friendly Windows
State availability: 50
Warranty options: Limited warranties
Price range: $100–$1,750
Pella is known for providing high-quality window products to homeowners nationwide. Its collection of fiberglass, wood, and vinyl windows is available in home improvement stores and Pella showrooms nationwide. Pella is a good option for those who prioritize energy efficiency, which 36% of our surveyed homeowners said was a main reason they upgraded their windows.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Available in all 50 states
- Products available in retail stores such as Home Depot
- Makes wood, vinyl, and fiberglass windows
Cons
- Isn’t a full-service installer
- Varies warranty coverage by product line
- Has shorter warranty coverage than many competitors
What We Like
Pella has three collections with energy-efficient replacement window options, including low-e glass, argon glass, and two- to three-pane upgrades. The Pella 250 series includes affordable vinyl replacement windows in four styles that provide noise reduction, energy savings, and warp-resistant window frames. The Architect and Lifestyle lines offer a large selection of wood windows that add warmth and beauty to any room.
These lines provide the most customization options, making finding the right accent pieces for your home easier. Wood windows cost more than vinyl but offer long-lasting durability and classic styles.
Windows Offered
Pella offers these window options:
- Awning
- Bay and Bow
- Casement
- Double-Hung
- Picture
- Sliding
- Single-Hung
- Specialty
Power Home
Best Renovations
State availability: 23*
Warranty options: Limited warranty
Price range: $200–$800
Power Home Remodeling may not be a name you’re familiar with, but it has the best customer reviews of any window installer we’ve ever researched. It has an A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and 4.7 out of 5 stars from over 2,900 customers on the site. Customers praise the company’s installation speed, responsive and friendly customer service, professional staff, and workmanship. Power Home is a great option if you’re doing a home improvement product that spans beyond windows. The company also installs doors, siding, roofing, solar panels, insulation, and more, so you may get a discounted rate by bundling services.
*Available in Arizona, Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, Florida, Georgia, Illinois, Indiana, Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, Virginia, and Wisconsin.
Pros and Cons
Pros
- Has excellent customer reviews
- Has a team of certified installers
- Also installs doors, roofing, siding, insulation, and solar panels
Cons
- Doesn’t have as established of a reputation as competitors
- Doesn’t include information about window types on its site
- Doesn’t operate nationwide
What We Like
Power Home’s windows are made to be energy-efficient, designed with heat-reflective glass and leak-resistant technology. They’re also durable. Power Home’s windows are made of 100% virgin vinyl, fiberglass mesh screens, and fusion-welded corners. Plus, they come with advanced security features, such as reinforced meeting rails and nighttime safety vents.
Windows Offered
Power Home offers these window options:
- Awning
- Bay and Bow
- Casement
- Double-Hung
- Picture
- Sliding
- Specialty
How Much Should You Spend on Replacement Windows?
Factors such as frame material, window type, and glass type have the biggest impact on window cost. What you’ll spend varies greatly depending on your combination of these elements. On average, a vinyl window will run you between $100 and $1,900 according to Home Depot. A more luxury material, such as wood, will cost $1,200 to $3,800. These figures include installation and tax.
The most affordable window materials are aluminum and vinyl. Fiberglass and wood windows are the most expensive, and composite windows are somewhere in the middle. Smaller, more standard window styles such as double-hung and awning are on the more affordable end, while larger, more intricate styles, such as bays and specialty shapes, can cost several thousand dollars.
Here’s a look at average pricing for popular replacement window types and materials:
| Window Type | Vinyl | Wood |
|---|---|---|
| Double-hung | $825–$1,400 | $1,600–$2,200 |
| Awning | $925–$1,250* | $1,200–$1,700 |
| Shaped | $1,000–$1,600 | $1,600–$3,800 |
| Casement | $1,000–$1,900 | $1,400–$3,800 |
| Bay | $4,750–$6,000 | $8,000–$11,000 |
To learn more about these different window options and how they affect the cost of your project, visit our How Much Does Window Replacement Cost? guide.
What Factors Should You Consider When Replacing Windows?
There are several factors to consider when shopping for replacement windows, including window type, frame material, warranty, and installer. Additional cost factors, including customization, window size, and energy efficiency upgrades, will come into play after you’ve selected a brand.
Below are some important factors to remember when researching potential window companies for your project.
Types of Replacement Windows
There are more than a dozen types of replacement windows on the market. Here is a list of the most popular window types to help you decide which are right for your home:
- Awning windows: Awning windows are made with hinges at the top of the frame, allowing them to open easily for optimal ventilation. You can open awning windows during the rain without ruining your home’s interior and furnishings.
- Bay windows: Known for their protruding outward design with three panes, bay windows offer additional interior space via a sitting area or ledge and can boost your curb appeal.
- Bow windows: Similar to bay windows, except bow windows typically have four to give windows and the shape of bow windows is slimmer and more curved.
- Casement windows: Casement windows are built with a hinge on the right or left side and work well in rooms with restricted or obstructed views. Casement windows work well in rooms prone to moisture since they offer excellent ventilation.
- Double-hung windows: Double-hung windows can be opened at the top and bottom panel (or sash), offering more options for air circulation and easy cleaning. These windows work well in installations on higher floors.
- Garden windows: This window style allows homeowners to create mini-greenhouses for their plants and herbs. Garden windows have no grilles to allow maximum sunlight to enter a room.
- Hopper windows: These windows open with a crank and have a hinge at the bottom that opens inward. Since they sit high on a wall, they provide excellent ventilation and privacy.
- Picture windows: These windows offer unobstructed, picturesque views of your surroundings, with the largest sizing running from the floor to the ceiling. Picture windows do not open, making them excellent for security.
- Single-hung windows: These are traditional windows with a fixed top sash and open on the lower sash only—a great security feature for ground-floor rooms. Single-hung windows are more cost-effective than double-hung options.
- Sliding windows: Sliding windows work well in tight spaces because they run on a small track that allows the window to open to the left or right rather than outward or inward. These work well in larger rooms or areas that need more natural light.
- Storm windows: Storm windows offer added protection against hurricanes or heavy storms thanks to their impact-resistance window glass. Storm windows are used in coastal areas prone to major storms or heavy winds.
- Transom windows: These windows are usually shaped like arches or rectangles and serve as a decorative element above doors or windows. Transom windows are popular for bathroom installations or other areas where natural light and privacy are preferred.
Types of Window Frame Materials
According to the U.S. Department of Energy, homes lose up to 30% of their heat through windows. Installing energy-efficient windows can improve your energy usage, resulting in long-term savings. Learn which materials are most energy-efficient, as well as other pros and cons, below.
- Aluminum: Aluminum windows are often the most affordable option. They’re heavy-duty but prone to rust and don’t offer much energy efficiency.
- Composite: Composite windows combine wood’s timeless look of wood with the durability of sturdy metal or plastic materials. They cost more than aluminum and vinyl windows but have a longer life span. Composite material provides more customization options than vinyl and offers great energy efficiency.
- Vinyl: Vinyl is a popular material for its balance of affordability and durability. It’s low-maintenance and offers decent energy efficiency. However, vinyl windows often have a notably artificial look to them.
- Fiberglass: Fiberglass windows have excellent durability. They work well in most climates because they can expand and contract during extreme conditions. Fiberglass windows have a higher price tag but are often more economical than wood. This material also requires little maintenance and helps reduce your energy costs.
- Wood: Wood windows add elegance and curb appeal to your home. They offer excellent durability and energy efficiency but have a much higher cost range. Be aware that wood is more prone to damage, such as rotting or peeling.
Extra Window Features
Certain windows help improve the functionality and lifespan of your windows. Features such as glazing and low-e coatings boost their energy efficiency, lowering energy bills and improving internal comfort levels. Below are examples of window features to consider during your search.
- Cladding: Cladding protects wood windows’ exterior. Vinyl or metal cladding helps extend the windows’ life and reduces their exposure to the elements. Homeowners can enjoy the beautiful design of wood windows inside their homes without the exterior degrading over time.
- Glazing: Additional temperature protection comes with installing double- or triple-glazed windows. Double-glazed (or double-pane) windows have two glass panes with a sealed gas filler to impede heat transfer. This gas, typically argon or krypton, provides added insulation to prevent exterior temperatures from affecting your home’s comfort level. Choosing triple-glazed (or triple-pane) windows adds another layer of insulation and noise reduction.
- Low-e coatings: This coating helps regulate the solar heat that enters your home. According to the Department of Energy, low-e coating can reduce energy loss by up to 50%. The coating comes in various protection levels and may differ in certain climates. Some low-e glass allows solar heat to enter your home in winter. In other circumstances, the coating allows visible light to enter your home but reduces warming.
- Tilt-in sashes: Tilt-in sashes are found on single- and double-hung windows offered by most manufacturers. The sash, or the movable part of the windows, tilts inward, making it easier to clean.
Manufacturer Warranty Options
Protecting your replacement window investment with a comprehensive manufacturer’s warranty is essential to ensure you get the most out of your product. This may include protection from manufacturer defects, damages, or window replacement costs. We’ve broken down some common warranties to look for below.
- Limited lifetime warranty: A limited lifetime warranty is the most common warranty type in the windows industry. It covers certain window elements for their life span.
- Double lifetime warranty: This coverage is similar to a lifetime warranty but lasts for as long as you own your home.
- Lifetime warranty: A lifetime warranty covers more window elements than a limited warranty for the window’s lifetime.
- Transferable warranty: A transferable warranty allows you to transfer your coverage to the next person who buys your house. Most companies prorate the coverage from the original purchase date, giving the new owner a smaller warranty period.
The term “lifetime” varies between window replacement companies and is based on how long they think your windows will remain in optimal condition. These time frames also vary based on the quality of your windows. High-quality windows could have a lifetime of up to 20 to 30 years, while low-quality windows may only last 30 to five years. Because a windows warranty is often complicated and includes many clauses, you should review the terms and conditions in detail.
Here are some warranty details to look out for:
- Frame Coverage
- Glass Coverage
- Hardware coverage and replacement
- Labor and installation terms
- Manufacturer’s defect coverage
- The company’s definition of “lifetime”
Reviews from Customers
Homeowner reviews provide insight into the window buying experience and how companies treat their customers, which is why we read customer reviews for every company we’re recommending. You should look at good and bad reviews to gain a complete understanding of customers’ experiences. Look for the following items in each review:
- Customer support: Review how customer service representatives responded to homeowners’ issues and supported them before and after installation. Take note of positive and negative experiences. Companies with long-standing customer support issues should be avoided.
- Window products and projects: Look for customer reviews that mention specific window products or product lines. Reviewers may also mention a project similar to your renovation or upgrade. Check those reviews for insights into their experience and any roadblocks they may have faced. Check for complaints about poor workmanship or faulty windows. You should avoid companies with constant issues with their product lines or project work.
- Scheduling and installation: Look for comments about how long it took to schedule appointments with the company and the turnaround time to full installation. Check for any complaints about delayed installation appointments or poor communication with scheduling. Also, pay attention to any reviews mentioning incomplete installations or unprofessional installers.
- Warranties: Many homeowners will share positive and negative experiences with warranty claims. You can learn more about the steps to start a claim, the coverage details, and how long the process may take. You may also learn about common warranty issues or claim delays other customers have faced.
How to Find a Local Window Installer
After selecting your manufacturer and replacement windows, you’ll need to find a contractor or window installation company to complete the work. We don’t recommend installing windows yourself unless you’re specifically skilled at window installation. Not only can an improper fit cost you money in the long run, but having a labor warranty is valuable—so much so that our survey takers cited it as their second-most important reason for not attempting a do-it-yourself (DIY) installation. Installing windows yourself can actually void your product warranty, so it’s best to leave the project to a licensed team.
Here are a few tips for finding window installers in your area.
1. Look for Certified Installer Networks
Replacement window companies usually have a network of trusted and certified installers. These installers are trained to handle the company’s products, ensuring each project is completed as intended. Shoddy installations can damage your home or cause poor energy efficiency and high energy costs.
2. Ask About Home Improvement Store Services
Home improvement stores such as Home Depot and Lowe’s offer window installation services to homeowners. These installers are trained for window installation but may not be certified for your particular products. We recommend checking the store’s online reviews for customers with the same products and reading about their experiences
3. Get Recommendations From Friends and Family
You can contact close friends and family to get suggestions for window installers in your area. Neighbors can also be a great resource for recommendations. Speak to your neighbors about recent projects and learn more about their experience. Ask about their windows upgrade’s planning, scheduling, and installation stages.
Our Recommendation
Window replacement can improve energy savings, bring more natural light into your rooms, and upgrade your home’s curb appeal. We recommend Renewal by Andersen as our top choice due to its durable Fibrex materials, energy-saving features, long-standing reputation, and in-house installation services. Our next pick, Champion, is more affordable, with durable vinyl window selections and a 0% financing program.
We suggest comparing at least three window replacement companies before making a decision. Look at which energy-efficiency features the brand includes, warranty coverage, installation process, and customer reviews. You’ll also need to consider your overall budget and whether luxury or affordable window replacements are the best options for your home.
Replacement Windows FAQ
How much does it cost to replace a window?
Vinyl windows of a standard type and size typically range between $100 and $1,900, including installation costs. Standard wood windows average $1,200 to $3,800.
What is the most affordable time of year to replace windows?
Winter is the most affordable time to replace windows since it’s the off-season. Remember that you’ll need to endure the cold for a few days while your windows are replaced. However, your replacement windows project will be more affordable, and you can benefit from the improved energy-efficiency upgrades.
Who are the best window replacement companies?
We ranked Renewal by Andersen as our choice for the best replacement windows. The company provides energy-efficient vinyl replacement options and a full-service installation process. Champion Windows, another top choice, offers in-house manufactured windows, including its patented Comfort 365 Window Glass.
Who makes the best double-hung replacement windows?
Top window manufacturers, including Renewal by Andersen, Marvin Windows, and Champion Windows, offer excellent double-hung replacement options. When shopping for double-hung windows, homeowners should consider the window material, energy-efficiency upgrades, and functionality, including tilt-in sashes.
How We Chose the Best Replacement Windows
We researched and analyzed dozens of window manufacturers. We then crafted a rating system based on each brand’s standard and energy-efficient product offerings.
We spoke directly to representatives at each company to learn how the installation process works and determine how each brand personalizes its windows for each home. We also closely analyzed each company’s warranty options to ensure their product and labor guarantees match or exceed industry standards.
We rated and compared brands on product selection, quality, pricing, customer service, warranties, and other factors customers consider when choosing a company. We carefully reviewed each provider’s website and read more than 100 customer reviews for each provider to determine which window replacement companies made our list.
