7 Best Vinyl Windows for Your Home

Opting for vinyl windows doesn’t mean sacrificing style. We’ve spent over 100 hours researching the best window brands for vinyl windows. Our favorite options balance affordability, durability, and aesthetics to fit a multitude of styles.

Check out our picks for best vinyl windows below, plus tips on hiring a local installer.

 

Top Vinyl Window Brands

Here are our picks for the best vinyl windows:

• Best Selection: Andersen
• Best for Sunrooms: Champion Windows
• Best Warranty: Castle Windows
• Best for Wooden Windows: Harvey Windows and Doors
• Best Specialty Windows: Milgard Windows
• Best Eco-Friendly Windows: Pella
• Best Vinyl Windows: Simonton

Compare our top picks for the best vinyl window brands in the table below.

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Why Choose Vinyl Windows

Vinyl windows have become popular over the past several decades because they’re affordable, durable, and have additional structural benefits. The windows use polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as a synthetic base, offering a wood-like finish while remaining lightweight and easy to install. 

Vinyl windows are more durable than other window materials, such as wood or aluminum. Vinyl doesn’t fade, peel, or become damaged from extreme climates.

Overall, vinyl windows provide an optimal balance between style and performance that other window types don’t offer.

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Our Recommendation

Vinyl windows add style and charm, boost energy efficiency, and supply natural sunlight to highlight your home’s interior beauty. 

Champion Windows is a well-rounded option for vinyl replacement or new windows. The company offers a completely customized approach and can add its energy-efficient Comfort 365 Window Glass into practically any vinyl window style you want. In addition to its wide selection of windows and tailored installation, Champion is one of the few providers that offers comprehensive sunroom services. 

Castle Windows follows a similarly customized process for vinyl windows. However, Andersen is a safe bet for style and durability if Castle and Champion aren’t available in your area.

We recommend getting quotes from at least three window installers to compare services, warranties, and reputation. 

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How We Chose the Top Window Brands

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. 

Finally, we assessed the manufacturer’s years of experience and customer reputation. In addition, we analyzed the 100 most recent Google Reviews for each provider across various locations and branches.

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How to Select Windows for Your Home

There are a lot of options to consider when shopping for vinyl windows. Here are the key things to keep in mind.

Types of Windows

Vinyl windows are versatile and can be created to fit many shapes. Here are some of the most common window styles you’ll encounter during your search.

• Awning windows: Awning windows swing open to the outside of your home as if you’re pushing a latch open. The design pushes rainwater away from your home rather than towards it, making them easier to clean and ideal for climates with a lot of rain.  
• Bay windows: Bay windows use multiple flat windows set into an angled frame that protrudes from your home. This design creates a shelf inside and a beautiful accent outside to increase your curb appeal. 
• Bow windows: Bow windows use custom curved windows to create a circular area outside your home. They provide expansive views of lawns or gardens and are ideal for breakfast nooks and dining areas. 
• Casement windows: One of the most popular window types, casement windows swing out to the side or up to open. They tend to be made of solid glass and offer a sleek, minimalist design. 
• Custom windows: Most window companies offer custom windows, whether you want a window designed to look like a sailboat or one that captures the spirit of nearby mountains.
• Double-hung windows: Double-hung windows are among the most common types. They have a lower and upper sash that moves up and down and often feature a tilt-sash for easier cleaning. 
• Garden windows: These windows are one of the best ways to add character and charm to your home. They’re similar to bay windows in that they protrude from your home. However, they have a small shelf to grow plants and herbs.
• Hopper windows: Typically found in basements and bathrooms, hopper windows are ideal for rooms with limited wall space. They’re commonly used for ventilation and open from the top.
• Picture windows: Picture windows don’t have visible frames, creating an unobstructed view that makes your interior feel larger. They’re fixed windows that can’t be opened but are often paired with other windows for design and functionality.  
• Skylights: Skylights act like windows for your roof. They’re an excellent way to add more natural light to a home with limited wall space. 
• Single-hung windows: Single-hung windows open vertically with a bottom window panel. The lower sash moves up and down, but the upper sash remains stationary. 
• Sliding windows: Ideal for elongated walls, sliding windows feature two sections usually made from single windows. One of the sections slides horizontally over the other to open or close. 
• Transom Windows: Transom windows are often used as decorative accent windows. They help break up space or add a design focal point. You often find them around doors or above other windows, and they tend to be semicircles, rectangles, or squares. 

Window Warranties

Though vinyl windows are known for having long life spans of 20 to 40 years, a warranty adds additional security to your investment. Many window manufacturers offer limited lifetime warranties or labor warranties. Limited lifetime warranties cover the cost of window parts but don’t always cover labor. 

The term lifetime often refers to the estimated time the window will maintain its manufactured quality. Low-quality windows may have an estimated lifespan of fewer than five years, while high-quality windows can last more than 15 years. The length of the warranty matches those estimations. However, some manufacturers mean the actual lifetime of the window. These warranties are usually transferable to new homeowners. 

Lifetime limited window warranties typically cover the following items:

• Accidental damage to the glass
• Broken or malfunctioning hardware
• Cosmetic defects
• Custom aspects of your design
• Energy-efficient glass
• Errors performed by the installing contractor
• Obstructed vision/issues with the seal
• Window materials

A labor warranty, often called a workmanship warranty, covers installation errors, not manufacturing defects. Labor warranties may require you to pay a service call fee for repair.

Window labor warranties typically cover: 

• Glass systems and frames
• Installation and labor
• Locks and hardware
• Pieces, parts, and materials

We recommend selecting a window installer approved by your manufacturer. This makes it easier to receive coverage if a defect occurs, preventing the manufacturer from blaming the installer or vice versa. 

Homeowner Reviews

Looking at other homeowners’ reviews of window manufacturers is critical to understanding what it’s like to deal with a company. These are the most important factors to note:

• Response time and scheduling: Note how long homeowners said they waited for installation. A company that takes a while to schedule an installation date may not be a dealbreaker if your remodel doesn’t require a fast turnaround. However, if you need a shattered window replaced quickly, you may want to find a company with speedy response times. 
• Warranties: Customer reviews are also an excellent way to tell if a company honors its warranties or puts misleading language in them. Pay attention to reviews that mention trying to use a warranty for glass repair or a malfunctioning lock to gauge whether or not the window brand stays true to its word.
• Workmanship: Observe how homeowners describe the window brand’s installation quality. Avoid brands whose workmanship might include cheap parts or a sloppy design.

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How to Find a Local Window Installer

There are a few significant steps to finding a reputable window installation company. We’ve listed them below.

• Check for certification: Many window manufacturers recommend finding an installer trained and certified for their products. Using a certified contractor helps you avoid bureaucratic headaches if issues occur. The manufacturer should also be willing to help resolve problems with a certified contractor. We recommend visiting a local showroom for the brand you’re interested in to connect with local certified installers and double-check for certification from the American Window and Door ­Institute.
• Read customer reviews: Google Reviews and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) are two great sites to find reviews. Pay attention to the above criteria, such as scheduling, warranty options, and workmanship.
• Pay attention to the quote process: Some red flags might occur during the quote process. A reputable installer should measure each replacement window, explain their installation process, and estimate how long the job will take. You want an installer who will replace each window one at a time rather than removing all the old ones and installing new ones. If an installer seems too quick to start the job or tries to avoid some of your concerns and questions, you may want to look for someone else.

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Window Company Reviews 

Best Selection: Andersen

Fast Facts:

• State availability: 50
• Warranty options: Limited and lifetime limited warranties 
• Price range: $680–$2,700
• Energy-efficient products available: Yes

Benefits and Drawbacks Andersen Vinyl Windows

Upsides	Downsides
Includes 20-year warranties for glass and 10 years for non-glass items	Costs more than some competitors
Is available nationwide at big-box retailers such as The Home Depot	Doesnt offer cost information online because prices vary by location
Offers a large selection of vinyl window lines

What we like: Andersen is one of the most respected window manufacturers in the United States. Its subsidiary, Renewal by Andersen, offers customizable vinyl windows with full-service installation. The company offers 35 different window types and multiple operational styles, color options, and shapes. 

Andersen’s customizable E-Series caters to unique window installations, including accent windows that complement double-hung and casement options. Its 400 Series is a premium option, including Andersen’s highest-quality glass with vinyl or wood frames. Andersen offers a choice between contemporary and traditional styles to match your home’s aesthetic. 

Types of Windows Available

Below are Andersen’s options for custom-built windows and doors:

• Awning windows 
• Bay windows 
• Bow windows 
• Casement windows 
• Double-hung windows 
• Entry doors 
• Gliding windows 
• Hinged French patio doors 
• Pass-through windows 
• Picture windows 
• Screen doors 
• Sliding doors 
• Specialty windows 
• Storm doors 

Read more: Renewal by Andersen review

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Best for Sunrooms: Champion Windows

Fast Facts:

• State availability: 17*
• Warranty options: Limited lifetime warranty
• Price range: $400–$850
• Energy-efficient products available: Yes

*Available in Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin.

Benefits and Drawbacks Champion Vinyl Windows

Upsides	Downsides
Provides Energy Star-certified vinyl windows	Has limited service areas
Offers additional sunroom and patio services with vinyl options	Provides limited pricing information online, as quotes vary by location
Offers in-house installation and customization

What we like: Champion Windows was founded in 1953 to manufacture cost-friendly aluminum storm windows, storm doors, awnings, and screen rooms. The company now offers a wide selection of window lines. Its vinyl window line, ColorBond, has various exterior color options designed to adhere to vinyl. These windows also use heat-reflective and impact-resistant technology that prevents fading, warping, and energy loss. Color options include adobe, black, bronze, colonial blue, pebble, tan, and white. 

Champion includes eco-friendly, Energy Star-certified Comfort 365 Window Glass on its window offerings. This glass has a specialized low-emissivity (low-e) coating and insulating argon gas that block roughly 94% of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, ensuring your home stays cool during summer and warm in winter.

In addition, Champion provides sunroom and patio services. The company offers wholly customized sunrooms with an in-depth, personalized installation process. Projects include all-season sunrooms, three-season sunrooms, patio enclosures, and screen rooms. 

Types of Windows Available

Below are Champion’s window, sunroom, patio, and door options: 

• All-season sunrooms
• Basement hoppers
• Bay windows
• Bow windows
• Casement windows
• Double-hung windows
• Entry doors
• Garden windows
• Glass block windows
• Patio doors
• Patio enclosures and covers
• Picture windows
• Screen doors
• Screen rooms
• Shaped windows
• Sliding doors
• Storm doors
• Three-season sunrooms

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Best Warranty: Castle Windows

Fast Facts:

• State availability: 11*
• Warranty options: Lifetime warranty
• Price range: $300–$500
• Energy-efficient products available: Yes 

*Available in Connecticut, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Benefits and Drawbacks Castle Vinyl Windows

Upsides	Downsides
Includes a robust lifetime warranty for vinyl windows	Limited state availability
Offers made-to-order vinyl windows for a variety of window types	No online pricing, as price varies by location
Includes double weather stripping and insulated glass with its virgin vinyl products

What we like: Castle Windows has manufactured windows since 1997. The company has served over one million homeowners and built a reputation for high-quality vinyl windows, exterior doors, roofing, and siding services. 

The company provides design-friendly double-hung and basement hopper windows with double weather-stripping, insulated glass, and a maintenance-free vinyl frame. Its windows also have a tilt-sash—or the part of the window that opens—for easy cleaning.

Castle offers a 24/7 customer support line and includes a transferable lifetime warranty. This warranty covers all window parts, including glass, screens, and other components. The warranty also covers workmanship with free labor on all services.

Types of Windows Available

Here is Castle Windows’ door and window selection:

• Awning windows
• Basement hoppers 
• Bay windows 
• Bow windows
• Casement windows
• Deadlite, specialty, and transom windows 
• Double-hung windows
• Exterior doors 
• Garden windows
• Patio sliders 
• Slider windows

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Best for Wooden Windows: Harvey Windows and Doors

Fast Facts:

• State availability: 16*
• Warranty options: 10-year and lifetime warranties 
• Price range: $500–$1,350
• Energy-efficient products available: Yes

*Available in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia.

Benefits and Drawbacks Harvey Vinyl Windows

Upsides	Downsides
Allows you to customize vinyl windows with hardware finishes, grid styles, and glass options	Limited state availability
Offers lifetime warranty	Doesn’t include prices online
Uses UV Tough Coat paint

What we like: A top Northeastern brand, Harvey Windows and Doors offers a comprehensive and customizable vinyl window line. Its Classic Vinyl collection comes with five BetterGrain interior finishes, which mimic the look of natural wood windows. 

You can pair these premium vinyl windows with Harvey’s UV Tough Coat paint in black or bronze. This coat is seven times stronger than industry-standard water-based paints, ensuring your windows will look great longer. Harvey also offers a diverse range of color options for its vinyl windows, such as cranberry, forest green, and wedgewood. The company includes a lifetime warranty.

Types of Windows Available

Here are Harvey’s window and door options:

• Awning windows
• Bay windows
• Bow windows
• Casement windows
• Custom shaped windows 
• Double-hung windows
• Entry doors
• Garden windows
• Gliding patio doors
• Gliding windows
• Hoppers
• Majesty hinged patio doors
• Picture windows
• Single-hung windows
• Rolling windows

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Best Specialty Windows: Milgard Windows

Fast Facts:

• State availability: 16*
• Warranty options: Full and limited lifetime warranties
• Price range: $200–$600
• Energy-efficient products available: Yes 

*Available in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington.

Benefits and Drawbacks Milgard Vinyl Windows

Upsides	Downsides
Manufactures its glass and vinyl components in-house	Limited state availability
Offers SmartTouch Hardware for easy locking and unlocking	No online pricing information
Uses titanium dioxide to make its vinyl more heat- and weather-resistant

What we like: Many window companies rely on third-party providers to produce their glass and hardware components, but Milgard Windows manufactures everything in-house. This means you receive reliable customer service and lifetime warranty options for the company’s vinyl window lines. 

Milgard’s V300 Trinsic Series is an excellent option for vinyl windows with a modern, minimalist design. The V250 Style Line Series offers vinyl windows with a slimmer frame, allowing more natural light to fill your space and make your home feel more expansive.

Milgard also offers an excellent selection of specialty windows it can make with vinyl frames, including skylights. Other specialty window options include radius, bay, bow, and garden. The company constructs its vinyl windows with anti-corrosion technology. 

Types of Windows Available

Milgard’s door and window offerings are as follows:

• Awning
• Bay windows
• Bi-fold glass walls
• Bow windows
• Casement windows
• Double-hung windows
• French-style sliding doors
• Garden windows
• Horizontal slider windows
• In-swing French doors
• Out-swing French doors
• Picture windows
• Pocket glass walls
• Radius windows
• Single-hung windows
• Sliding patio doors
• Stacking glass walls

Read more: Milgard Windows review

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Best Eco-Friendly Windows: Pella

Fast Facts:

• State availability: 50
• Warranty options: Limited warranties 
• Price range: $450–$2,000
• Energy-efficient products available: Yes

Benefits and Drawbacks Pella Vinyl Windows

Upsides	Downsides
Focuses on eco-friendly and energy-efficient windows	Doesn’t include a lifetime warranty
Offers cost-friendly vinyl windows that don’t sacrifice style	Doesn’t provide cost information online
Has nationwide availablity, including at Lowe’s

What we like: Pella is one of the largest window manufacturers in the United States and can be found at The Home Depot and Lowe’s locations. The company is notable for its energy-efficient windows and efforts in green technology.

Most Pella windows and doors meet Energy Star performance guidelines and include a low-e coating. The Environmental Protection Agency even recognized Pella for its efforts in pollution prevention with an Energy Star Award in 2009.

Pella’s Encompass line includes high-quality standard vinyl windows. Its 250 Series offers more durable and stylish vinyl options. This series supplies weather-stripping, insulating gas, and optional easy-to-open hardware components. You can customize your Pella vinyl windows with almond, fossil, or white color schemes. 

Types of Windows Available

See which door and windows options Pella offers below:

• Awning windows
• Bay windows
• Bow windows
• Casement windows
• Custom options
• Double-hung windows
• Front doors 
• Patio doors 
• Picture windows
• Single-hung windows
• Sliding window
• Specialty windows

Read more: Pella Windows review

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Best Vinyl Windows: Simonton

Fast Facts:

• State availability: 50
• Warranty options: Double lifetime and lifetime limited warranty
• Price range: $200–$1,200
• Energy-efficient products available: Yes

Benefits and Drawbacks Simonton Vinyl Windows

Upsides	Downsides
Includes lifetime and double lifetime limited warranties	Additional upgrades are required for energy-efficient options
Includes various Energy Star-certified window and glass options	Collection availability varies by region
Offers a massive selection of vinyl window options

What we like: Simonton offers one of the largest catalogs of customizable vinyl windows. The company specializes in and only works with vinyl windows. Homeowners can select from five different design options to build custom vinyl windows that are weather-resistant and aesthetically pleasing. Simonton separates its windows into two collections for East and West Coast customers.

The East Coast-exclusive Reflections collection allows you to customize exterior color, internal wood grain laminate, hardware, and grid choices. The West Coast Simonton Madeira series provides traditional windows with wood-like designs and wide frames. Both collections offer energy-efficient upgrades, including double-pane and triple-pane options with argon gas. 

Simonton provides lifetime and double lifetime limited warranties. However, the coverage varies between models. 

Types of Windows Available

Simonton offers the following vinyl window types:

• Awning windows
• Bay windows
• Bow windows
• Casement windows
• Double-hung windows
• Garden windows
• Geometric windows
• Picture windows
• Single-hung windows
• Slider windows

Read more: Simonton Windows Review

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