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Whether a homeowner places more importance on their home’s exterior aesthetics or level of interior comfort, the windows they choose play a very important role. Ugly, dated, damaged, and rotting windows make the home look shabby, while drafty, leaky windows send the energy bill through the roof. Luckily, when the time comes to replace old windows, the best window replacement companies can help.
“A window replacement company is well-versed in building codes, ensuring safety and structural performance standards adherence,” explains Thomas Patterson, director of new product development and technical training at Glass Doctor, a Neighborly company. “It is important when determining the necessity of safety glazing material for the project.”
But much goes into choosing the best window replacement service. There’s a lot for homeowners to know, especially if they have never hired a window installation service before. To find the best window company for their project, homeowners will want to factor in some key details about their project as well as about the companies they are considering.
- BEST OVERALL: Renewal by Andersen
- RUNNER-UP: Pella
- BEST FOR REPAIR: Glass Doctor
- ALSO CONSIDER: The Home Depot
Our Top Picks
When searching for the best-rated window replacements, homeowners want to find a company that is as transparent as the windows it installs. Reviewing some of the best window replacement companies provides homeowners with a good start as they plan their project.
Best Overall
Renewal by Andersen
Pros
- Generous 20-year transferable warranty on all components
- Augmented reality tool allows homeowners to visualize new windows in their homes
- Green Seal–certified products for environmental health and stewardship
- Eco-friendly Fibrex composite window frames
Cons
- Somewhat limited product information readily available online
Specs
- Consultation: In-home or virtual
- Scheduling: Online or phone
- Financing: Yes
- Customer service: Phone, live chat
- Warranty: 20 years on components, 2 years on installation
Why It Made the Cut: Renewal by Andersen boasts a generous warranty, environmentally friendly products, and a unique augmented reality visualization tool, making it an excellent choice for window replacement.
As one of the best-known window replacement companies in the nation, Renewal by Andersen has a lot to offer homeowners. To start, Andersen replacement windows are known for their eco-friendly Fibrex material, which is a vinyl alternative made from reclaimed wood fiber and thermoplastic polymer. According to the company, Fibrex can block thermal transfer around 700 times better than aluminum, which results in better energy efficiency and lower heating and cooling bills. Fibrex is also much stronger than vinyl, which means its seals will stay tight longer than they would on a vinyl window. Andersen windows are also Green Seal certified, which speaks to the company’s commitment to environmental health and stewardship.
Customers can view some products online before scheduling a consultation, though there’s somewhat limited information on the products themselves. However, customers can take advantage of the company’s unique augmented reality tool to see what different styles of windows will look like in their homes. Renewal by Andersen offers in-home, no-contact, and virtual consultations, allowing customers to get a quote for Andersen windows costs in a manner that suits their preferences and comfort levels. Renewal by Andersen also has one of the most generous warranties in the industry. Glass and Fibrex material is covered by a 20-year warranty, while other components (including locks, hinges, handles, weatherstripping, sashes, and exterior color finishes) have a 10-year warranty. The company also offers a 2-year warranty on installation services, giving customers peace of mind that their new windows have been installed correctly. Renewal by Andersen’s warranties are transferable, which means they will still be valid if the original homeowner sells the house while the windows are still within their warranty period.
- Learn more with our Renewal by Andersen review.
Renewal by Andersen is a 2024 recipient of BobVila.com’s Home Improvement Hero designation.
Home Improvement Heroes recognizes the best companies homeowners could call for a problem, project, or service. Our editorial team used a rigorous process to evaluate based on availability, skills, range of services, cost, customer reviews, guarantees, refund policy, customer support, and more. We then independently reviewed each company and hired some for our projects for consideration. See the full list of honorees.
Runner-Up
Pella
Pros
- Wide selection of window styles offered
- Integrated smart-home technology installation offered
- More than 150 patents on window technology and innovation
Cons
- Relatively limited warranty-transfer terms
Specs
- Consultation: In-home or virtual
- Scheduling: Online
- Financing: Yes
- Customer service: Phone, email, text
- Warranty: 10 to 20 years on components, 2 years on labor
Why It Made the Cut: Pella stands out for its wide selection of window styles, commitment to innovation, and smart-home technology integration options.
Since its founding in 1925, Pella has earned more than 150 patents for its innovations, which means customers can count on Pella windows to boast unique features and technologies that aren’t offered by other window manufacturers or installers. Pella also has a wide selection of window styles for customers to choose from, including specialty and custom window replacements for homes with unique designs. Homeowners can schedule an in-home consultation or complete a virtual consultation online to choose their replacement windows and get a quote for Pella windows costs.
Pella’s components come with a 10- or 20-year warranty, though homeowners will want to note that not all warranties are transferable, which could become an issue when it comes time to sell the home. However, labor is covered by a 2-year warranty so customers can feel confident their Pella replacement windows were installed properly and professionally. While replacement windows are being installed, Pella technicians can also install integrated smart-home technology such as motorized blinds and shades and integrated security sensors. Homeowners can even check their Pella windows and doors from a smartphone app, whether they’re down the street or in another state or country. Alongside added security, these features provide a layer of convenience when it comes to accessing difficult-to-reach blinds or saving residents a trip home if they forget to lock the door. Smart-home integration is also a huge plus for customers who have other smart-home features installed and want to integrate as much of their home as possible with their smart-home system.
- Learn more with our Pella Windows review.
Best for Repair
Glass Doctor
Pros
- 24/7 emergency glass services available
- Glass repair services available
- Up-front pricing guarantee
Cons
- No virtual consultation option
- Relatively limited warranty terms
Specs
- Consultation: In-home
- Scheduling: Online or phone
- Financing: Not specified
- Customer service: Phone, email
- Warranty: 10 years on components, 1 year on labor
Why It Made the Cut: Glass Doctor is well worth considering thanks to its up-front pricing guarantee, emergency services, and the ability to repair as well as replace a home’s windows.
In addition to installing replacement glass, Glass Doctor can repair existing window glass to save homeowners money. Customers can call Glass Doctor for emergency repairs 24/7 in certain locations, and a technician will either make repairs on-site or secure the window or door opening temporarily while acquiring the materials needed to fully fix the window. This means that homeowners will not have to endure uncomfortable drafts or reduced security for long if their window is shattered. Although there’s no virtual consultation option and Glass Doctor has a relatively limited 1-year labor warranty, customers can expect a fast response time from a Glass Doctor technician. In addition, the company has an up-front pricing guarantee for window glass replacement costs as well as repair costs. Because that guarantee is in place, customers won’t be met with any surprise costs during their window repair or replacement project.
Also Consider
The Home Depot
Pros
- Wide variety of window brands available
- More than 2,300 locations nationwide
- Various project financing options available
Cons
- Pricing and window brand availability may vary by location
- Work is contracted out to other local professionals
Specs
- Consultation: In-home or virtual
- Scheduling: Online or phone
- Financing: Yes
- Customer service: Phone, live chat
- Warranty: Varies by manufacturer
Why It Made the Cut: With thousands of locations across the country, a wide range of window brands on offer, and plenty of financing options, The Home Depot is a great option for window replacement projects.
Homeowners in general are aware of The Home Depot’s retail offerings, but they may not realize that the store also offers window replacement services. Customers can hire local installers who are contracted through their local Home Depot store. The Home Depot thoroughly vets each service provider and guarantees that they are licensed and insured.
With more than 2,300 locations nationwide, The Home Depot is a realistic option for homeowners in even the most remote locations. The Home Depot also has a variety of financing options to choose from such as store credit cards and loans, so homeowners are not on the hook for the full project cost at the time of installation. These options may make it easier to fit a window replacement project in a homeowner’s budget.
It’s worth noting that pricing and window brand options may vary by location, but homeowners can contact customer service via phone or live chat to verify details with their local store. Even so, customers who hire The Home Depot to install their windows can typically choose from a wide variety of window brands, whereas they might be limited to proprietary options with other companies. The Home Depot’s replacement windows include options from Andersen, Jeld-Wen, Milgard, Ply Gem, and more, so homeowners can choose the brand that works best for their needs and budget.
Our Verdict
Renewal by Andersen is our Best Overall choice thanks to its impressive warranties, environmentally friendly products, and user-friendly augmented reality tool. Pella gets the nod for Runner-Up because of its unique offerings, which include smart-home integration and numerous innovative patents. Customers can compare Renewal by Andersen vs. Pella to determine which will best suit their needs.
How We Chose the Best Window Replacement Companies
There are a lot of companies on the market claiming to offer the best replacement windows, best replacement services, and best window brands. We chose the best window replacement companies for this list independently, without taking those claims into account.
The companies on our list are top names in the industry, but they also each offer something unique. Our short list includes companies with nationwide service areas, outstanding warranties, numerous window options, and unique services. After extensive research, we found those companies to be the leaders in their respective areas.
Before You Hire One of the Best Window Replacement Companies
Before hiring a window replacement company, homeowners will want to consider several important points. After all, these companies are only in a home for a few days—the homeowner has to live with the replacement windows for years to come.
First, homeowners will want to make sure that they are within the company’s service area. For example, the best window replacement companies in Ohio may not operate in California or Florida. Those in very rural areas may also need to confirm that their chosen company will travel to them. Next, it’s important to ask about references, licenses, and insurance, as well as the business’s address or contact information. It’s also a good idea for homeowners to ask about customer service and how the company handles complaints and callbacks.
Homeowners can also ask about the variety of window styles and materials as well as specifics about the consultation process. It’s also worth homeowners asking about lead times, as some companies might be booked out for months at a time, and the homeowner may not want to wait that long for their replacement windows. And, possibly most importantly, homeowners will want to find out about financing and warranty coverage before signing any paperwork.
Homeowners might also wonder whether they need window replacement in the first place. That hinges on the age and condition of their existing windows. “Windows that have been in place for 15 to 20 years are usually prime contenders for replacement, regardless of how they look,” says Patterson.
What to Consider When Choosing One of the Best Window Replacement Companies
Finding the best window brands and styles for a home may be relatively simple, but choosing the best pro to install them can be trickier. There are several important considerations for homeowners to keep in mind when shopping for the best home window replacement company. Each carries its own importance, so homeowners will want to be sure to understand them all before searching for “window replacement near me” or “window companies near me.”
New Construction vs. Replacement
There are two types of window installations: new construction and replacement or retrofit. Each has its pros and cons.
New construction windows are installed into rough openings. Usually, these openings are only accessible during construction, which is how these windows get their name. However, they’re often the best windows for homes undergoing siding replacement, as residential window replacement companies can install new construction windows. And, for homes suffering from very leaky windows, these are sometimes the only viable option. They’re usually slightly less expensive than replacement windows and generally very easy for the company to install.
Replacement windows are installed within an existing window frame. The installer will remove the window stops on the inside of the window, remove the sashes, clean up the opening, and install the replacement window before installing moldings to hold it in place. Choosing the best replacement windows on the market can make for a more expensive and time-consuming installation. However, they are likely to last longer and offer more energy efficiency than cheaper models.
Repair vs. Replacement
Some windows don’t necessarily need replacing but could be repaired instead. When replacing a window, the installer removes the entire old window and installs a new one. With a repair, the technician simply removes the broken glass, sash, or component and replaces it with a new one.
If the windows in a home are relatively new, it’s typically less expensive to repair rather than replace them. For instance, a window replacement company might be able to simply swap out a broken glass pane for a new one. When that’s not possible, window sash replacement is often the most viable solution. And, for instances where a window’s latches or sash locks break, most window replacement companies can perform repairs on the spot for a nominal fee.
Window Style
When choosing a window glass replacement company, it’s important for a homeowner to find a window style to fit the home’s desired new look or one that fits the look of the windows in the rest of the home. In older homes with complex, ornate designs, this might limit the options a homeowner can work with.
Many window replacement companies will have the option for customers to choose between single-hung vs. double-hung windows, as well as popular options like picture windows. Some of the larger window replacement companies make their own windows, and they offer many styles to make it easy to find something that will work. Smaller window replacement companies may only have what their partnering manufacturers have to offer, making it a bit more difficult to see what’s in stock or what’s even available. Customers may want to consider the best energy-efficient windows to help seal their homes and lower their utility bills.
Materials
Occasionally, choosing the best company for replacement windows comes down to materials: mainly, the frame material and type of glass installed by the company.
“Vinyl is the most widely used material for replacement windows,” explains Patterson. “This is mainly due to their low cost and availability. There have been advancements in vinyl extrusion with the addition of honeycomb pockets to aid in the window’s ability to prevent temperature transfer through the frame. Wood, the best thermal-performing material available, tends to cost much more.”
Almost all window replacement companies work with vinyl windows, as they’re light, easy to install, and have low maintenance requirements. Vinyl window replacement can also be a low-cost option for those on a limited budget. However, if the homeowner wants to replace or install windows with wood frames, they may find it more difficult to find a window frame replacement company. And when it comes to metal windows in industrial-inspired spaces, it can be even more challenging.
It’s also worth homeowners considering the type of glass they want in their house windows. Those who live in areas prone to tornadoes or hurricanes might prefer their replacement windows to contain impact glass. Some companies might not work with impact glass, while others do. The same would apply to homeowners looking to preserve stained glass behind a better insulated storm covering or those who prefer more efficient low-e glass.
Consultation and Scheduling
Before hiring a window replacement company, homeowners will need to schedule a consultation. These typically happen in person, but some companies offer virtual consultations now as well. With an at-home consultation, a representative from the company will measure windows, discuss the homeowner’s particular needs, and provide a quote. A virtual consultation will be similar, but the homeowner will likely need to measure the windows before the consultation begins. When measuring for window replacement, the homeowner must be precise, so the representative will guide the homeowner in how to most accurately measure the windows in need of replacement. A representative may also perform an exterior inspection of the home before or after a video consultation.
“The window replacement company representatives will thoroughly inspect all existing windows and doors within the home. Following this examination, they will provide a detailed explanation of the current condition of the windows and commence discussions on various options,” explains Patterson. “[As] part of the inspection process, the company should conduct tests for the presence of lead in painted surfaces or asbestos in window pockets, ensuring a thorough understanding of potential environmental considerations in the replacement process.”
Once the homeowner decides to hire a window replacement company, the consultant will provide a rough lead time. During this time, the window order is submitted, the manufacturer builds the windows, and a shipping company picks them up. This process can take anywhere from 4 to 16 weeks (or longer, in some cases). A company representative will call the homeowner to schedule the installation once the windows are close to being shipped. Once on-site, the best window replacement companies can complete the installation of several windows in just a few days.
Financing
Window replacement can be an expensive project, and many homeowners choose to finance the job through the window replacement company. In many cases, these installers have rebates and incentives that make their financing a good option. Those who would prefer not to go through the window replacement company for funding might want to look into a HELOC (home equity line of credit) or one of the best home equity loans from lenders such as U.S. Bank or Flagstar. One of the best home improvement loans (such as one from LightStream) can also be used to help fund this project.
According to Patterson, “Homeowners have various financing options ranging from convenient identical-to-cash plans to competitive financing rates, with a current 12-month identical-to-cash option. Additionally, reputable companies are inclined to offer energy-saving window solutions, allowing homeowners to take advantage of available tax credits.”
There are things to consider when choosing financing, and many go beyond the simple monthly payment. Some of the best window companies might offer attractive incentives like discounts or interest-free periods. Homeowners who are able to pay in cash or pay these loans off quickly may find this to be the best option. Those who don’t have the cash on hand or would prefer to spread their payments over a longer period of time will likely prefer to look into alternative funding options.
Warranty
One of the biggest benefits of new windows is the warranties that accompany them. “Window replacement is a project where a warranty can be advantageous, offering protection in case of any issues that may arise during or after installation,” explains Peterson. While warranties are important, they’re not all equal in value or coverage.
- Lifetime warranties generally cover the entire window indefinitely. This means that the glass, sash, locks, latches, and frame are under warranty, and this warranty is transferable if the house sells.
- Limited lifetime warranties generally warranty certain parts of the window against manufacturer defects. For example if the glass randomly cracks and the pane is covered under warranty, the manufacturer will replace it. Occasionally, these warranties are not transferable to new owners.
- Limited warranties often cover certain parts and are only good for certain periods of time. For example, the window pane might be covered for 20 years, while the sash and frame might be covered for 10 years. The latches might not be covered at all.
- Nontransferable warranties are just as they sound: good for the original owner and no one else. If the owner decides to sell the home, they will want to disclose that the new windows will not be under warranty for the new owners.
Customer Service
No matter the type of company a homeowner is hiring, customer service matters. Some companies do their best to be as available to their customers as possible. Considering that a window separates the home from the cold, heat, and the outside world, a company’s customer service options are an important consideration for homeowners.
Most window replacement companies offer phone-based customer service through which the homeowner can call and speak with a representative. Some also offer live chat, which allows homeowners to speak with a representative in real time without needing to speak on the phone. Some window replacement companies offer 24/7 service and emergency repairs—something that could be critical for homeowners faced with a shattered window on the coldest day of the year.
Cost of Hiring One of the Best Window Replacement Companies
The national average window replacement cost is $280 per window, including the price of the window and the cost of labor to install it. However, the typical range is between $180 and $409 per window. The exact cost of window replacement will depend on the window size, style, and material; the type of glass chosen; and the cost of labor. There simply isn’t a hard answer for those wondering about the cost to replace windows. However, customers can review the average costs for specific window types.
- Bay window replacements cost between $950 and $7,500 to install.
- Egress windows cost between $2,621 and $5,662 to install.
- Garden windows cost between $1,000 and $4,000 to install.
- Hurricane windows cost between $3,083 and $15,721 to install.
However, there’s more to the overall cost than just the initial window installation cost. Installing energy-efficient windows can result in decreased utility bills each month. The savings homeowners can see can help justify the cost of replacement windows. In addition, homeowners may be eligible for a federal tax credit for energy-efficient windows of up to 30 percent of the project cost, or $600 for windows and $250 for doors, provided they choose windows that meet Energy Star criteria. Homeowners will want to review information on the Energy Efficient Home Improvement Credit from the Internal Revenue Service (IRS) to determine how to claim this tax credit.
The Advantages of Using One of the Best Window Replacement Companies
There are many reasons for installing new windows and opting for a top-rated window replacement service. The best window replacement companies hire and train qualified technicians, which means the people installing these windows know what they’re doing. They’ll know how to install, flash, caulk, and adjust these windows, ensuring that the homeowner is happy with the end result.
Homeowners can also expect the best window replacement companies to have access to a variety of types of windows in different styles and materials. Homeowners will be able to compare prices and warranties as well. The selections through these companies are just generally larger.
It’s also worth mentioning that replacing the windows in a home can increase its value, which could mean it’s a good idea for a homeowner to replace older windows before selling. The best window companies can help the homeowner decide which window style will be most attractive to potential buyers so the homeowner can maximize the windows’ return on investment (ROI) when selling.
- The best window replacement companies employ qualified and experienced technicians to ensure a home’s windows are installed correctly.
- They offer a wide selection of window styles and materials to cater to a range of homeowners.
- Replacing a home’s windows can increase a home’s value, and the best window replacement companies can help.
FAQs
It’s easy for homeowners to feel overwhelmed when looking for the best company to replace windows. By understanding the answers to some of the most frequently asked questions about window replacement, homeowners will be better prepared to hire for this major home improvement project.
Warmer weather is generally better for replacing windows. While the home might heat up during the installation, it’s better to deal with generally safe heat levels than dangerously frigid temps that can also damage the home. Also, any caulk or touch-up paint will adhere better when it’s warm out.
SolarZone windows are a style of insulated window glass offered by Window World. In hot areas, the heat from the sun’s rays can radiate into the home. SolarZone windows minimize the heat with an undetectable metal coating that blocks the rays in summer but allows shorter solar rays through in the winter.
There are some points to consider when deciding whether to replace all a home’s windows at once. If you want to save money on energy costs, replacing all the windows at once is likely the only way to see a noticeable difference. Also, scheduling and coordinating window installation can be tricky, so it’s best to do it all at once. However, if you only have one or two windows that are drafty, broken, or ugly, you may be able to replace individual windows to save money.
It’s important to recognize a few points about replacing windows:
– If the existing windows aren’t that old, you might not see a boost in property value.
– If the existing windows are insulated and in good condition, you might not see a significant decrease in energy consumption after replacement.
– Those who need historic window replacement may be limited in their options.
– Many window replacement companies get their windows from the same manufacturers, so you’ll want to be careful if one company claims to have a significantly shorter lead time than the others.
Yes, when it comes to insulation, the best windows are double-pane. The two panes of glass have a gas in the middle (typically) that creates an air barrier, doing a better job of keeping the cold temps out and the warm temps in, or vice versa. Double-pane windows cost more than single-pane window replacement, but they can save the homeowner money in energy bills. Homeowners who want the most efficient windows will want to consider budgeting for triple-pane window costs.
