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Ply Gem is one of the leading window manufacturers in the United States. It has more than 78 years of experience and supplies a wide range of customizable door and window options. We’ve extensively researched the best replacement window brands across the country and broken down how Ply Gem compares in this review.
Fast Facts About Ply Gem
- Founded: 1944
- State availability: 50
- Warranty options: Limited warranties
- Price range: $150–$1,200
- Energy-efficient products available: Yes
Ply Gem Windows Reviews
We analyzed the 100 most recent Google Reviews for Ply Gem’s Auburn, Washington, location. The reviews were mixed, with 49% being three stars or more. We noted that more positive reviews have occurred in recent years.
Critical reviews mention difficulty communicating with customer service and long waiting periods, while positive reviews note the quality of Ply Gem’s products and installation.
What Homeowners Say About Ply Gem
Below is a sample of the reviews we analyzed during our research.
“I don’t normally give reviews, but I’m making an exception. We had all our windows replaced just over 20 years ago. I recently noticed one large picture window and one small window had started to fog up between the two panes. The company that did the installation has not been in business for some time. I found the … paperwork that stated we had a lifetime [warranty]. … I just had to submit a form,and that was it. We now have 2 new windows that didn’t cost us a penny. That’s what I call standing behind your product.” —Kurt Brown via Google Reviews
“Thank you so much to Ply Gem for honoring the lifetime warranty when several window balances either broke or had sluggish springs. The email claim process was simple and well-organized. We were scheduled soon, and the repair person was quick and extremely professional and friendly as well. It’s fabulous to have a company that holds such integrity.” —Sue Minahan via Google Reviews
“We have been waiting three months now for windows to be replaced.… My boyfriend called and had an appointment scheduled to get the windows updated. They didn’t show up! What a mess!” —Samantha Schulte via Google Reviews
“I have been waiting almost six months for windows on [my] house. They have cost me so many delays; it’s not even funny. Even the building inspector said he has never heard of a window company taking that long. Also, they do not return phone calls.” —Devon Demetre via Google Reviews
Benefits and Drawbacks of Ply Gem
Here are some of the benefits and drawbacks of choosing Ply Gem.
| Upsides | Downsides |
|---|---|
|
Offers patio door and other home improvement services in addition to window installation |
Varies service area by ZIP code |
|
Is available nationwide |
Offers limited warranties rather than lifetime warranties |
|
Provides articles and guides on its website for design inspiration |
Ply Gem Window Types Available
Ply Gem offers a variety of window styles. The company produces many standard window types, such as double-hung windows, as well as unique geometric windows and extravagant bay windows.
Below is a breakdown of Ply Gem’s popular window lines.
- 200 Series Windows: This is a go-to window series for many Ply Gem customers. It provides wood composite windows with exterior cellular PVC frames and brick mold, resulting in a product that can withstand the elements but looks like traditional wood.
- 300 Series Windows: This new construction window line offers historically inspired wood composite windows with a low-maintenance cellular PVC exterior and interior frame, plus a vinyl sash.
- 1500 Series Windows: This series offers low-maintenance vinyl windows in various styles. You can add any of Ply Gem’s energy-efficient glass options.
- Classic Series Windows: We recommend this line to homeowners wanting a minimalist, modern look. It offers timeless designs in neutral colors such as beige, clay, and white.
- East/West Pro Series 200 Windows: This dual replacement window and new construction window line tailors Ply Gem’s 200 Series windows to the East and West Coast’s regional climates.
- East/West 400 Series Windows: This new construction and replacement window line offers simple yet elegant vinyl windows, providing comfort and energy efficiency without compromising style.
- East/West Pro Series 700 Windows: This window line offers striking, minimalist vinyl windows. A standout option is the East/West Pro Series 700 Skywall, a wall of windows that transitions into a skylight. This provides a dramatic and expansive wall of light with incredible views of your home’s surroundings.
- MIRA Series Windows: A new construction window line, the MIRA Series pairs wood’s warmth and beauty with aluminum’s durability and weather resistance. These aluminum-clad windows are a great choice for a cottage or cabin, as they come in exterior colors such as cottage red and evergreen that match common style choices for these homes.
Here are the different door and window styles Ply Gem offers.
- Awning: These windows are hinged at the top and open outward by turning a handle. They can be left open for fresh air during the rain.
- Bay/bow: These specialty windows create a visually stunning 3D shape that protrudes from your home. They also add interior space for seating or storage.
- Casement: These windows function similarly to a door, swinging open on a side hinge. Casement windows usually include a hand crank for easy operation.
- Double-hung: Double-hung windows can be opened from the bottom or top to maximize air flow. Ply Gem’s double-hung windows include a tilt-in feature for easy cleaning.
- French doors: Ply Gem’s French doors are one of the company’s standout products. They come in sliding and multiple swing options. They have a wide stile and rail for an authentic French appearance.
- Garden: These windows are the perfect mini-greenhouse. They’re built with a shelf for herbs and plants and allow in lots of light with side vents for ventilation.
- Geometric: These windows can add unique character to your home, coming in various circular, arched, and linear shapes.
- Multi-sliding doors: These patio doors use three or more door panels with operable panels that glide open from the left, right, or both to open up living areas.
- Picture: Picture windows don’t open and instead showcase your home’s beautiful scenery and landscaping. They vary in size but are usually very large and may extend from floor to ceiling.
- Slider: Slider windows glide horizontally from the left or right to open wide. These windows provide excellent views of your landscape, plus plenty of fresh air.
- Single-hung: Single-hung windows are a traditional style with a fixed upper sash and a bottom sash that moves up and down to open. They provide added security on first floors.
- Sliding doors: Sliding patio doors are an ideal way to save space. Rather than opening into your home, they glide open from the left or right, seamlessly connecting your indoor and outdoor living spaces.
- Swinging doors: A hinged or swinging patio door allows one or both door panels to swing open for easy outdoor access.
Ply Gem offers many customization options for its windows, including materials, colors, hardware, grille patterns, and glass. Below are the different window frame materials Ply Gem offers:
- Aluminum: Aluminum windows are one of the strongest and most durable materials. They have a narrow frame with a large viewing area. They also provide excellent energy efficiency, are low-maintenance, and help prevent insect and moisture damage.
- Aluminum-clad wood: These windows offer the warmth and beauty of natural wood with the durability of aluminum. Ply Gem’s aluminum-clad wood windows come in multiple colors, so you can paint or stain the wood interior to match your home’s aesthetic.
- Vinyl: Vinyl windows are durable and energy-efficient. They provide premium insulation, are low-maintenance, and have anti-insect infestation features. Unlike wooden windows, vinyl windows don’t need to be painted, stained, or refinished.
- Wood: Ply Gem’s wooden windows have a cellular PVC exterior and wooden interior. The company will paint or stain them to match your home’s style. These windows withstand harsh weather, insect infestations, and excess moisture. Ply Gem’s wood composite windows are energy-efficient and help decrease heating and cooling costs.
Ply Gem Energy Efficiency
As an Energy Star partner, Ply Gem is committed to using sustainable practices and helping homeowners conserve energy. Many of Ply Gem’s window lines allow you to add low-emissivity (Low-E) glass and HPMax triple-pane glass. According to Energy Star, you can save an average of $101 to $583 per year by upgrading to Energy Star-certified single-pane windows.
Below are the various glass options Ply Gem offers:
- High-performance (HP) glass: This option combines Low-E glass with insulating argon gas. Argon gas is denser than air, so heat and cold can’t travel through it as easily as regular glass. This glass also includes Ply Gem’s Warm Edge spacers, which separate glass panes to further limit temperature movement.
- Impact glass: Ply Gem’s StormBreaker Plus Series is tailored to homeowners in hurricane-prone regions. This glass is laminated and built to withstand harsh weather conditions.
- Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass: A Low-E coating is a thin metallic layer that reflects radiant heat more efficiently than regular glass. This keeps your house warmer in winter and cooler in summer.
- Sound-reduction glass: Ply Gem manufactures this glass to minimize exterior sound and keep unwanted noise outside.
Ply Gem Window Installation
Ply Gem follows many standard window installation steps. However, the company doesn’t offer in-house window installation, as it must meet local building code requirements. You’ll need to find a local window installer who’s certified by Ply Gem.
We recommend taking the following steps to ensure you find a reputable local window installer for your Ply Gem windows.
- Check for certification: Many window manufacturers recommend using an installer trained and certified for their products. This helps you avoid bureaucratic headaches if issues occur, so the company can’t blame the installer or vice versa. We recommend contacting Ply Gem via its website so the company can connect you with local certified installers. You can double check for certification from the American Window and Door Institute.
- Read customer reviews: Read reviews on sites such as Google Reviews and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) to get a sense of other customers’ experiences. Take note of both positive and negative comments about scheduling, warranties, 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 find another local installer.
Ply Gem Pricing and Costs
Ply Gem offers a wide range of window options, which means its pricing varies widely. Based on our research, the company’s pricing aligns with typical replacement window costs. Some of Ply Gem’s most cost-effective options, such as its vinyl windows, start around $150 per window. Its more complex and unique options, such as bay or awning windows, may cost upwards of $1,200.
You can find many of Ply Gem’s windows at popular retailers such as The Home Depot. Shopping at these stores can provide some insight into what Ply Gem’s windows cost in your area. If you’re interested in more unique or premium windows, such as garden windows, you’ll want to contact a certified contractor.
Use our tool below to get in touch with local contractors.
Our Recommendation
Ply Gem offers a comprehensive selection of new construction and replacement windows, from affordable vinyl windows to extravagant geometric ones. The company also offers a range of patio doors that stand out from other companies, especially its stylish French patio doors. However, Ply Gem’s customer review ratings are lower than many other brands.
We recommend requesting free quotes from at least three windows companies before making a decision. Read reviews for each company to learn about other homeowners’ experiences, and call and speak with a representative to gauge their helpfulness.
Ply Gem Windows FAQ
Where are Ply Gem windows made?
Ply Gem manufactures its windows in production facilities throughout the United States. The company is headquartered in Cary, North Carolina.
Are composite windows better than vinyl?
Composite windows are better insulated and more durable than vinyl windows. However, they’re thicker and have a more prominent profile than vinyl windows, which tend to be thinner.
Do Ply Gem windows come with screens?
Yes, you can receive Ply Gem windows with screens from The Home Depot and the company’s website.
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.