Expertise.com

7 Best Replacement Window Companies of 2024

Expertise.com Staff Profile Picture
Written By:

Whether you’ve started to notice your windows aren’t performing like they used to or you’re simply ready for a refresh, replacing your windows can be an opportunity to breathe new life into your home. 

From choosing an exterior color to determining the right window material, picking the right window replacement and installation for your home and budget can be a challenge. To help you compare, our team created this guide to highlight the best window replacement brands in the U.S.

Our Top Picks

Comparing the Top Window Replacement Companies

Get a quick overview of our top window replacement brands below. 

Company

Ranking

Best for

Pella

Ranking

4.5Expertise.com ranking

Best for

Our pick for: Best overall

Marvin Windows

Ranking

4.0Expertise.com ranking

Best for

Our pick for: Energy efficient windows

Harvey Windows + Doors

Ranking

4.0Expertise.com ranking

Best for

Our pick for: Best air filtration windows

JELD-WEN

Ranking

4.0Expertise.com ranking

Best for

Our pick for: Wood windows

Renewal by Andersen

Ranking

3.5Expertise.com ranking

Best for

Our pick for: White glove service

Castle Windows

Ranking

3.5Expertise.com ranking

Best for

Our pick for: Best warranty

Milgard

Ranking

3.5Expertise.com ranking

Best for

Our pick for: In-house manufactured windows

How We Ranked the Best Window Replacement Brands

Beginning with a list of 16 window brands, we evaluated each company based on a variety of factors: 

  • Window types available

  • Customer trust

  • Years in business

  • Warranty 

  • Frame materials

  • Color choices

  • State availability

1. Pella

Pros

  • Wide range of window styles and materials
  • Multiple strengths of Low-E glass available to increase energy efficiency
  • 98 years in business

Cons

  • Warranties vary based on window material and window series
  • Minimal pricing information listed on website

Why we chose Pella: A well-known name in the window industry, Pella has been creating quality windows and doors since it was established in 1925. Their windows are made in the U.S. and found through independent distributors, showrooms, and Lowe’s stores nationwide, making Pella an easily accessible brand for many homeowners looking to replace their windows. 

Homeowners have the option to browse Pella options in person at a nearby Pella showroom or shop online. Pella also offers homeowners the option to schedule an at-home or online consultation with a window specialist to discuss styles and color options and get a free quote. 

Pella offers two specialty window types that are perfect for those living in areas where extreme weather is common. The Hurricane Shield Series is made to withstand hurricane-force winds in coastal areas, and the Defender Series is designed to weather impacts from storms or attempted break-ins. 

Pella offers limited lifetime warranties depending on the window material and window series you purchase. Limited lifetime warranties mean that the windows are under warranty for as long as the buyer lives in the home in which they were installed. Pay attention to the fine print of your warranty as certain restrictions apply. 

Window types available:

  • Casement

  • Double hung

  • Single hung

  • Awning

  • Picture

  • Sliding

  • Bay

  • Custom

  • Bow

  • Specialty

Window materials available: 

  • Wood

  • Fiberglass

  • Vinyl

2. Marvin Windows

Pros

  • Wide variety of interior and exterior colors
  • Marvin Lock Status Sensor can be paired with a home security system
  • Warranties are transferable to a new owner if you sell your home

Cons

  • Windows can be pricier than other options on the market

Why we chose Marvin Windows: Marvin Windows began as a family-owned cedar and lumber company in 1912 and has since grown into an innovative leader in the window industry. 

The company offers an impressive array of window materials and styles — more than 150,000 made-to-order window and door options in custom sizes. Once homeowners narrow down a style, they can then customize their window to their exact specifications right down to the size, interior and exterior colors, hardware, glass type, casings, and divided lites. 

Speaking of innovation, Marvin offers homeowners the option to add an extra layer of home security into their windows. The Marvin Lock Status Sensor is installed in the factory and can be wired or wirelessly connected to your smart home security system to alert you if your window is closed, locked, or unlocked. 

Marvin Windows offers extruded aluminum windows designed to withstand severe weather and strong winds. The company also offers two fiberglass options, including the company’s proprietary protruded fiberglass material called Ultrex, which is eight times stronger than vinyl and three times stronger than wood. The Ultrex window finish is AAMA 624 verified, meaning that it’s gone through rigorous testing to ensure it can protect against fading, chalking, and gloss retention.  

Window types available:

  • Awning

  • Bay

  • Bow

  • Casement

  • Corner

  • Double hung

  • Picture

  • Picture specialty shapes

  • Single hung

  • Sliding

  • Storefront

Window materials available: 

  • Wood

  • Extruded aluminum

  • Fiberglass

3. A Tie Between Harvey Windows + Doors and JELD-WEN

Harvey Windows + Doors and JELD-WEN both scored a 75 out of 100 in our replacement window rating system, so we awarded a tie for third place to the two companies. 

Harvey Windows + Doors

Pros

  • Affordable window options
  • Offers a variety of locks and latches to secure your home

Cons

  • Not available nationwide
  • Limited material, color, and accessory choices

Why we chose Harvey Windows + Doors: Headquartered in Massachusetts, Harvey Windows + Doors has been manufacturing windows and doors since 1961. 

The brand is known for their affordable and Energy Star-certified glass that can help reduce energy consumption in climates where both cooling and heating costs are a concern. 

Harvey Windows come with a high air filtration rating. This means that their windows filter dust and other contaminants from leaking inside of the house. The brand’s vinyl windows feature multiple air chambers, frames, and sashes that help insulate your home and effectively lower your energy bills. 

Harvey’s vinyl windows come with a lifetime warranty for product parts and mechanisms. This Clear Confidence Warranty also covers glass seals for 20 years and is transferable to the next owner of the home for 20 years from the original manufacture date. However, Harvey only extends coverage for its wood windows for 10 years. 

One downside to Harvey is that the brand is only available in the Mid-Atlantic and New England states. However, for homeowners living in these areas, Harvey is a top window company, as they make their windows specifically to withstand the weather and climate unique to this region. 

Window types available:

  • Double hung

  • Single hung

  • Gliding/sliding

  • Casement

  • Picture

  • Rolling

  • Awning

  • Hopper

  • Custom shape

  • Bay

  • Bow

  • Garden

Window materials available: 

  • Vinyl

  • Wood

JELD-WEN

Pros

  • Available nationwide
  • Sources wood from sustainable forests and partners

Cons

  • No professional network of installers
  • No lifetime warranty

Why we chose JELD-WEN: Based in North Carolina, JELD-WEN has more than 117 manufacturing facilities in 19 countries. The company provides a wide range of window product lines, including wood, vinyl, and aluminum. 

JELD-WEN’s wood windows are crafted from the company’s patented AuraLast pine, which is designed to protect against rot, water damage, and termites. The manufacturing process for AuraLast releases 96% fewer volatile organic compounds (VOCs) than common solvent-based methods.

The company’s website provides a side-by-side comparison of the company’s different window products, showing homeowners the price range, warranty length, and customization options for each product line. 

Window types available:

  • Double hung

  • Square fixed

  • Awning

  • Casement

  • Single hung

  • Picture fixed

  • Sliding

  • Direct set

  • Gothic

  • Half-round fixed

  • Bow

  • Bay

  • Octagon

  • Half round

  • Oval 

Window materials available: 

  • Wood

  • Aluminum

  • Vinyl

4. Renewal by Andersen

Pros

  • 20-year transferable limited warranty for frames and glass
  • ENERGY STAR certified
  • Offers white glove replacement service

Cons

  • Limited window style options

Why we chose Renewal by Andersen: A popular name in the window industry, Andersen created the subsidiary Renewal by Andersen to offer custom replacement windows and doors. 

Renewal by Andersen receives high marks from third-party evaluations. It received an A+ rating from the Better Business Bureau and ranks number one on J.D. Power’s 2022 window and door customer satisfaction study. 

While Renewal by Andersen only offers one window material, Fibrex, it’s a durable product meant to last. Fibrex is the brand’s proprietary composite material made of wood and vinyl. The material is stronger than vinyl, blocks thermal transfer better than aluminum, and made of reclaimed wood and polymers to help increase sustainability. 

Renewal by Andersen offers white glove replacement service, meaning the company will handle the entire process from purchase to installation. You only have to deal with one company throughout your entire window replacement company, and the work Renewal by Andersen does is guaranteed by their warranties. 

Renewal by Andersen's website is easy to use and features a unique AR capability to let customers envision what window styles and colors will look like in their own home. 

Window types available:

  • Double hung

  • Casement

  • Bay

  • Bow

  • Picture

  • Sliding/gliding

  • Speciality

  • Awning

Window materials available: 

  • Fibrex (wood and vinyl composite)

5. Castle Windows

Pros

  • Offers a transferable lifetime warranty that includes free service
  • 24/7 customer service support

Cons

  • Limited nationwide availability
  • Only offers vinyl windows

Why we chose Castle Windows: Based in New Jersey, Castle Windows has been in the window business for more than 40 years. Rather than offering a variety of window lines, Castle manufactures made-to-order windows.  

It’s worth noting that Castle Windows is only available in 11 states, including: Connecticut, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, and West Virginia. For homeowners living in those states, it’s a great option for quality windows backed by an impressive lifetime warranty. 

Unlike many top replacement window companies that offer limited warranties, Castle Windows offers a lifetime warranty that includes service. The warranty is also transferable so you can pass it on to the next homeowner if you sell your home.

Castle is transparent on their website about what their warranty covers, which includes:

  • Leaks and drafts

  • Vinyl 

  • Color

  • Installation

  • Glass

  • Seals

  • Screens

Window types available:

  • Double hung

  • Casement

  • Slider

  • Garden

  • Bow

  • Bay

  • Awning

  • Specialty

  • Basement hopper

Window materials available: 

  • Vinyl

6. Milgard

Pros

  • Offers lifetime warranties for their Tuscany® Series | V400 and Trinsic™ Series | V300 windows
  • Manufactures every bit of their windows to control quality from start to finish

Cons

  • Only available in 16 states
  • Limited color options

Why we chose Milgard: Founded in 1958 by a father-and-son duo, Milgard is in control of every step of their window production. 

The company not only makes their own insulated glass, they also produce their own vinyl components, make their own fiberglass frames, and temper their own glass so every inch of their products are quality controlled. The quality of their products are backed by lifetime and limited lifetime warranties, depending on the window product you purchase. 

Milgard’s website makes it easy to explore their window offerings. The window product page provides a simple rundown of the main differences between their products, including a cost range and the type of home style that window might be best suited for. Milgard also includes a quiz to help you narrow down the best window option for your home and style. 

Window types available:

  • Horizontal slider

  • Single hung

  • Double hung

  • Casement

  • Awning

  • Picture

  • Specialty

Window materials available: 

  • Vinyl

  • Fiberglass

  • Aluminum

How To Determine Which Window Replacement Company Is Right for You

Unsure of where to begin searching for the right window replacement company for you? Below are a few factors to consider as you compare different options.

  • Cost: Sticking to a budget is important for any home project. However, cheap does not always mean quality when it comes to replacing windows in your home. Consider whether the window could help you save on energy costs, if there are any ongoing maintenance costs to consider, and the lifespan of the window. We recommend comparing the costs among three different companies to determine the best fit for your home and budget. 

  • Selection: Consider whether the company offers a variety of frame colors, glass types, and hardware options to determine if you can customize a window to match your home’s style. 

  • Availability: Not every window brand distributes its product nationwide. If you want to browse window options in person, be sure to find a window company that has a showroom near you. 

  • Warranties: Just as all windows are not made equal, neither are window warranties. Before purchasing a replacement window, be sure to carefully read over the company’s warranty and look out for any exceptions that could cost you in the future. 

  • Credibility: The number of years a company has been in business is a good testament to the quality of their products and the satisfaction of their customers. It’s also a good idea to read over customer reviews and check to see how a company fares in a third-party assessment, such as with the Better Business Bureau or J.D. Power.

Common Types of Replacement Windows

While many homeowners choose to replace an old window with the same style, there are other options you may want to explore. Below, we break down six of the common replacement window types. 

Double-hung Windows

Double-hung windows, also known as double-sash windows, have two sashes (aka the moveable part of a window that holds the glass in place) that slide up or down. 

The top and bottom sashes allow the homeowner to ventilate the home depending on their needs. The top sash can be opened to let the warm air escape and the bottom sash can be opened to let in cool air from the outside into the home. 

Best for: Two-story homes

Sliding Windows

Sliding windows, also called gliding windows, open horizontally by sliding along a top and bottom track. Sliding windows come in two- or three-panel styles and are wider than they are tall.  

Best for: Areas with a wide window opening 

Casement Windows

Casement windows feature hinges along the side that open outward, either from the left or right side. Casement windows open by using a handle that cranks the door open rather than manually pushing the window outward. 

Best for: Tall, narrow window openings

Bay Windows

Bay windows feature three windows that extend outward from the home. Typically, the center window is a bit larger than the two along the side. The clean lines of bay windows are great for both traditional or modern homes. 

Best for: Rooms with a view 

Bow Windows

Similar to bay windows, bow windows feature four to six windows of the same size that create a subtle curve protruding from the exterior of the home. Bows require more space than bay windows, and work best on a long wall or corner of a home with 80 inches of space. 

Best for: Providing ample natural light  

Awning Windows

Awning windows, like casement windows, are hinged windows that open with a crank. Unlike a casement window, awning windows tile open from the top of the frame rather than the side. Because this type of window acts like an awning, you can enjoy fresh air — even on a rainy day. 

Best for: Small window openings

6 Common Types of Replacement Windows

FAQ

Below, we answer some of the most common replacement window questions.

Our Verdict

With over 100 years of experience, Pella is a well-known name in the window business for good reason. The company receives high marks from the Better Business Bureau and J.D. Power for customer satisfaction. You can easily purchase Pella windows through independent distributors, showrooms, and Lowe’s stores nationwide.

The company places importance on sustainability and energy efficiency by ensuring its products are Energy Star certified and the wood they use is harvested sustainably and responsibly replenished. 

As with any window company, we recommend gathering multiple quotes before deciding on a brand to ensure you’re getting the best option that not only fits within your budget but will last you years to come.

Methodology

Expertise’s window replacement company methodology takes into account the following details about each company:

  • Window types available (20 points): We compared the different window styles each company offers and awarded points for each option they provide. Companies with more window options scored higher in this category.

  • Trust (25 points): Our team examined the Better Business Bureau’s letter grade for each company to determine overall customer sentiment and trust from a reputable third-party website. 

  • Coverage availability (5 points): Our team examined state availability for each company and rated companies with more availability higher than competitors. 

  • Years in business (5 points): We awarded points based on a company’s longevity, which helps indicate the quality of their products and the satisfaction of their customers. 

  • Warranty (15 points): We compared the window warranties for each company and awarded points based on the longevity and breadth of their warranty. Companies that offer a lifetime warranty scored the highest, and those that offer a limited warranty scored the lowest. 

  • Frame materials (15 points): We awarded points to each company based on the variety of frame materials they offered. Those that offered more material options scored higher. 

  • Color choices (5 points): We evaluated the color offerings for both interior and exterior windows. Companies with a wider variety of color options scored higher in this category.

  • State availability (10 points): We awarded companies that distribute their windows across the country with the most points in this category. 

We began with 16 window replacement companies identified in other top-ranking window replacement reviews and the J.D. Power 2022 Window and Door Customer Satisfaction Survey. From there, we gathered data for each category listed above. We removed any company that received an F rating from the Better Business Bureau, which left us with 13 companies. 

For the remaining 13 companies, we assigned scores for each category listed above by collecting data points from the companies' websites and third-party analyses. 

We then added up the scores of each category to determine a total score out of 100 points for each company and translated that score into a star rating. We included the top seven scoring companies in our list.

Share

Expertise.com Staff Profile Picture

Expertise.com StaffAuthor

Step into the world of Expertise.com, your go-to hub for credible insights. We don't take accuracy lightly around here. Our squad of expert reviewers, each a maestro in their field, has given the green light to every single article you'll find. From rigorous fact-checking to meticulous evaluations of service providers, we've got it all covered. So feel free to dive in and explore. The information you'll uncover has been stamped with the seal of approval by our top-notch experts.