The 4 Best Replacement Windows For Your New Home (2023 Updated!)
As time goes on, windows lose their quality; they can have a harder time keeping in cold or hot air, and they can get dinged up from storms, pets, or children. It may even be the case that they don’t fit the look of your home anymore. Whatever the reason, finding replacement windows is important. However, it can be hard to decide the best companies to “window shop” from. Luckily, it doesn’t need to be a daunting task.
We at Agent Advice do the research so you don’t have to. We’ve poured hours of research into finding the best window replacement options based on price, quality, and purpose. Let’s take a look at the best replacement windows and talk about some tips and tricks on how to make the best decision for your situation.
The 4 Best Replacement Window Options
- Best for Resale Value: Andersen Windows
- Best Warranty Option: Milgard
- Best for Custom Projects: Kolbe
- Best Energy-Efficient Option: Pella
Best for Resale Value: Andersen Windows
Why we chose it: Andersen Windows is the biggest name in the world of windows, delivering quality products and labor for over a century! If you’re a homeowner looking to replace your windows before selling, Andersen Windows is one of the best options out there. They’re top-rated, durable, and energy-efficient.
Andersen Windows is the leading window manufacturer in the US, selling all the common window styles in five different window collections: the 100 Series, the 200 Series, the 400 Series, the A-Series, and the E-Series. Their 400 Series is arguably their most popular, as it’s a more affordable option for wood windows with vinyl cladding. Each collection comes with a range of customization options, too!
Not sure how their windows would look in your home? Andersen Windows offers a unique tool that uses Augmented Reality (AR) and 3D models to see how they fit in your space before installing them. The same technology used to power Pokemon Go can be used to settle on the perfect windows for your home. It’s extremely useful, and all you need is a tablet or mobile device.
Andersen Windows takes sustainability seriously, too. They’re often recognized by ENERGY STAR for their energy-efficient window designs, even being named ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year. Their company works to reduce emissions and protect the environment, which starts by reducing VOC emissions in your home.
Andersen Windows also offers a generous 20-year transferable warranty on all windows and components. What does that mean? If you’re selling your home, the warranty transfers to the new owners, which can be a great selling point.
Whether you’re a home seller or just looking to replace your windows, Andersen Windows is often the first search you’ll want to make, as it’s a great investment from a proven company. With their tools and warranty, it’s a safe bet, too, making them on of the top replacement window brands.
- Energy Star certified
- AR tool to see windows before they’re installed
- 20-year transferable warranty
- Transferable warranty for home sellers
- ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year
- Augmented Reality tool
- Prices may vary from dealer to dealer
- Not as many style variations as competitors
Best Warranty Option: Milgard
Why we chose it: Milgard Windows is one of the biggest names on the West Coast when it comes to window replacement. Milgard is known for delivering quality products and services, but they also offer a full lifetime warranty and a lifetime limited warranty. They serve 16 states and have over 3,000 local dealership locations.
Milgard Windows offers standard window styles—like single hung and awnings—as well as picture and specialty windows, though these windows are not meant to be opened. Their specialty windows are available for most of their product lines, including radius, bay and bow, and garden windows. For frames, they offer aluminum, vinyl, wood, and fiberglass. They even have their very own SmartTouch window lock and door handle, which is easy to use and AAMA certified.
When it comes to their warranty options, Milgard packs a serious punch. Milgard offers a full lifetime warranty on all windows and components, or you can choose a limited warranty if you just want coverage over defects in their product. They’ll repair or replace materials no matter what, including all parts and labor. Plus, it’s transferable to a new owner, which extends 10 years from the original date of installation.
Milgard follows sustainability best practices in its manufacturing process. Their windows and patio doors are ENERGY STAR certified to lower household energy consumption. Plus, they offer many components to aid this further—like glazing, coating, and spacers—and their vinyl frames include anywhere from 10-15% recycled material.
If your home is located in the Western United States and you’re looking for a window solution with solid warranty options, Milgard is right for you. Added to this, customers have often reviewed that their technicians are quick, friendly, and reliable, so you don’t have to worry about a replacement causing you any grief.
- Extensive warranty plans
- Picture and specialty frames
- SmartTouch window lock and door handle
- Minimal color options for frames
- Limited to western states
Best for Custom Projects: Kolbe
Why we chose it: When it comes to luxury windows and custom projects, Kolbe Windows is your best choice. Kolbe focuses on innovation, especially when it comes to restoring the windows of historical buildings. While originally focused in the Midwest, they’ve since expanded to the West Coast with their acquisition of Pointe Five in Colorado, and there are many more locations in different areas.
Kolbe offers plenty of window options within six product lines: the VistaLuxe Collection, the Ultra Series, the Heritage Series, and the Forgent Series. They offer vinyl, wood, and aluminum frames. They also have a large variety of specialty windows for those funky-shaped spaces: direct sets, radius, corner windows, geometric, tilt-turns, hoppers, and folding. They also offer many upgrades, including upgrades to meet impact certification.
Kolbe prides itself on tackling custom projects. Their team waits for your order to come in before crafting your windows and doors so they can create them based on your precise specifications. They have a whole gallery of custom solutions for you to look through. This attention to craftsmanship makes them very well-suited for historical replication.
As for warranty options, they offer different warranties for different products and series. They typically offer Express Limited Warranty on a majority of their products, which can range anywhere from 5 to 20 years depending on the product. However, you’ll need to contact your local Kolbe dealer for more information.
When it comes to sustainability, they offer over 20,000 products that meet or exceed ENERGY STAR qualifications. Because of this, they were named ENERGY STAR’s Most Efficient for 2019. Their Ultra Series and VistaLuxe Collection were also verified by PHIUS. Their windows offer great thermal performance and UV protection, and they even provide glass coatings for very warm climates.
Kolbe is a fantastic option for custom projects. If your windows are nothing but standard, Kolbe is ready to solve your design challenges.
- Ability to handle custom projects
- Tons of specialty window options
- Well-equipped for older buildings
- Minimal window materials
- Only limited warranty
Best Energy-Efficient Option: Pella
Why we chose it: If sustainability and energy efficiency are priorities for you, then Pella is the way to go. Pella is a recognizable name in all 50 states, and many have praised them for reducing their energy bills. They’re leaders in energy-efficient windows, an ENERGY STAR partner recognized by the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). They’re also one of the founding members of the National Fenestration Rating Council, a non-profit that sponsors energy efficiency certification.
Pella offers all the standard styles, as well as picture, bay and bow, specialty, and custom windows. They have several product lines under their wood, fiberglass, and vinyl materials. They’re also the manufacturer of ThermaStar windows found at Lowes. Their LifeStyle Series has been noted for its noise reduction capabilities, too. Each window type can be customized further to customer preferences.
Energy efficiency, as mentioned, is what Pella does best. They have a commitment to environmental best practices, including energy saving, waste reduction, and recycling. They offer a variety of energy-saving glass options for specific climates, each including Low-E glass and argon gas, which reduces heat and cold conduction. They offer triple-pane windows, too, maximizing energy-saving potential.
Pella offers many options for purchasing their windows. You can visit one of their many Pella showrooms, which includes physical working samples you can decide from and experience. They also offer both virtual and in-home consultations. A Pella expert can visit your home for a 90-minute session and provide measurements and a quote. The same can be done over a video call for convenience.
As for warranties, they have some really solid options, but this depends largely on the model you choose. Nonglass components have a limited lifetime warranty, and glass is guaranteed anywhere from 10-20 years. This covers labor for repair and replacement for 2 years. Just make sure you read the warranty agreement carefully before deciding on the window for you.
- Best energy-saving option out there
- In-person and virtual consultations
- Available across the country
- Not all warranty options are transferable
- Less available customer service
Everything you need to know about replacement windows
Now that you know the best companies for window replacement, let’s talk about the window replacement process a little bit. We’ll cover when to get windows replaced, how to pick the right windows for your space, and how to pick the right window provider for your needs.
When to replace your windows
When should you replace your windows? Of course, this depends on your home and current installation, but the general rule of thumb is to replace your windows every 20 years to ensure they stay in good shape. This is why many companies provide 20-year warranties for their product; this number is based on the fact that you’d want to replace your windows within that timeframe.
When it comes to the best time during the year to replace your windows, it’s best to reserve this for the warmer months. This goes for a lot of home renovation tasks, but trying to replace your windows in the dead of winter isn’t going to be pleasant. There are going to be long periods when your home won’t be insulated.
Keep in mind that spring and summer are the busiest times for ordering and scheduling. You’ll probably be paying more due to the high volume of others replacing their windows, so it’s best to schedule your replacement as soon as possible. Ordering during the winter does have the advantage of deals and discounts you wouldn’t get during peak season.
Picking the best replacement windows for your home
Installing windows on a new home is an arduous process because of how many different types and styles of windows there are, but this is a lot easier for window replacement, as you’re just choosing the same style as you had before. However, let’s go through the different types of windows. First, you’ll have to decide if you want single pane, double pane windows, or even triple pane glass.
Double-Hung Windows vs. Single-Hung Windows
Next, you have single and double-hung windows. Single-hung windows have a fixed top sash (that top part of a regular window) and a bottom sash that you can raise vertically. Singe-hung windows are extremely common for their cheap cost, especially in apartment buildings. Double-hung windows allow you to move each sash independently for better airflow during those muggy months.
Double-hung is the most common type of window in homes built in the 1980s and later. The lower inside sash slides up and an upper outside sash slides down, which improves air circulation by making full screens ideal for homeowners.
Most newer double-hung windows also allow you to tilt the sashes in to easily clean. They’re also a smart choice if you plan to install a window air conditioner at any point, though most now have a fairly high trim on the sill that may require significant shimming to stabilize the air conditioner.
Awning-Style Windows
An awning window is a window that’s hung horizontally with a hinge at the top so that it swings out outwardly. The window creates a water-resistant awning when open, making it ideal for rainy climates. It’s also a very common choice for basement windows to keep water out. The sash presses and locks against the frame, so awning style windows close very tightly.
Casement-Style Windows
Casement windows open up like doors, swinging out to the side or upwards. They usually come with one casement window on the left and right that open in the center. These windows are often made of solid glass, making them ideal for less obstructed viewing. Make sure you don’t have decor sitting in the way of them if they open inwards!
Fixed Windows
Fixed windows, as the name suggests, are windows that can’t be opened. It’s essentially a single pane of glass. This differs from picture windows, also known as direct set windows. Fixed windows usually have thicker window frames, while picture windows maximize glass surfaces.
Bay Windows
Bay and bow windows are a lot like the above two, but they’re usually offset and include three different portions. Bay windows usually have a picture window in the middle with two different angled windows on the side, while bow windows use the same style for each window. Garden windows are also offset from the home, allowing you to put in a small plant.
Lastly, there are sliding windows, which open by sliding from side to side. These are usually best for long, horizontal window spaces.
Wood windows vs. vinyl windows
Vinyl windows are typically about 25% cheaper than wood frame windows. Wood windows add up because of the materials and the labor costs associated with installation. Wood windows are heavier, so they need more labor to install correctly. Although they are more expensive, wood frame windows are much more energy efficient, saving you money on heating and cooling costs in the long run.
When looking at the durability of the two, wood frame windows will last about 10-15 years longer. Wood windows are also more customizable coming in tons of colors, hardware and grille combos compared to the limited designs of vinyl windows.
Picking the right replacement company to work with
When deciding which window replacement solution is best for you, you have some considerations to make. The first one is whether they have the window style and materials that you want. Many providers offer standard window styles and materials, but there are sometimes a few missing from their list. Plus, if you’ve got an odd space, you’ll want someone who offers custom jobs. Besides that, you’ll want to consider their reputation, availability in your area, and accessibility. You’ll also want to know their pricing, financing, and warranty options. Aside from the other window replacement companies listed above, you can also check out these brands for your replacement window installation.
Marvin Windows
One of the leading manufacturers and marketers in the industry, Marvin Windows offers windows in multiple replacement and new-construction lines in widely popular double-hung and casement styles. The window brand also sells awning and bay/bow casement windows. The company’s window lines include wood, clad, and composite construction, along with low-emissivity and argon-filled glass for high efficiency to help save you money. Marvin Windows markets a line of stock sizes and has extensive special-order and custom options if you don’t plan on using the existing window openings. They’re sold through independent home centers and window dealers, and are premium-priced. Marvin Windows didn’t quite make our list, but could be worth checking out if you have a special project in mind.
Simonton
Simonton windows are available in multiple replacement and new-construction lines in widely sold double-hung and custom casement styles, along with low-emissivity and argon-filled glass for high efficiency. Simonton windows are available in stock sizes and extensive special-order and custom options. They’re sold at Home Depot, Lowe’s and through window dealers. You can get several pre-made window styles or contact Simonton Windows directly for custom built vinyl windows.
Replacement Window Costs
Replacing your home’s old windows is not a cheap project. Nationally, the average price to replace just one window will set you back about $500. If you go on to replace all windows in your home it can range anywhere from $8,000 to $19,000. That cost includes labor, disposal, and permitting.
Your actual end cost will depend on where you live, the window style and materials you choose, and a list of other factors. If you are looking to replace windows in just one or two rooms, you’ll save some money. However, if you want wood windows in your entire house, your price will go up. There are other things that will drive up that cost as well, including decorative glass accents, energy efficient garden windows. You’ll have to consider if you are putting in additional windows, or simply replacing the ones that fit existing window openings.
If you’re planning a project right now, though, factor in a potentially long wait time to get started. Several supply-chain issues have plagued the replacement window companies that manufacture and install replacement windows. Expect your project to take anywhere from 2 to 3 months from the time you sign the initial contract until your windows are actually installed.
Is it worth it in the end? Well, new windows make your home much quieter and less drafty—in short, more comfortable overall. New double hung windows are now easier to clean and maintain than older windows with combination screens and storm windows. They also can enhance your home’s all-important curb appeal and resale value.
Make your new house a home
We hope this guide was helpful in your window replacement decision. Whether you want to replace the windows of your new home or the home you’re trying to sell, there are so many options out there. The decision comes down to your personal needs and preferences, though.
We at Agent Advice research so you don’t have to. We spent countless hours researching everything real estate, providing you with our best tools and advice.
