Replacing your windows can completely transform the look and value of your home. If you haven’t replaced them in decades, this upgrade may be more necessary than you think. However, replacing your home’s windows is not something to take lightly. There are countless options, from the frame material to the type of glass and, of course, the company you should hire.
Feeling overwhelmed before you even get started? Check out this comprehensive guide to finding the best replacement windows, including average prices, the best companies, and the materials best suited for your home.
The Best Replacement Windows – An In-Depth Look
Renewal by Andersen
Average Price Range: Quotes provided with every consultation.
Warranty: 20-Year Limited Warranty.
Response Time: Quick Consultation:
Renewal by Andersen offers replacement windows for all types of homes and needs, from single-pane windows to panoramic windows, and even custom doors and shutters. Andersen Renewal has a great photo gallery on their website so you can explore different window styles and understand their specifications before making a choice.
The best part about this company is their free consultation. Simply schedule an appointment (without the windows) and Andersen Renewal will assess your home and your window replacement needs. The contractor will explain the options available, provide quotes, and answer any questions you may have.
Pros:
- Beautiful, durable, and energy-efficient product.
- Extended warranty.
- Reputable and professional company.
Cons: - Warranty limited to certain conditions.
- Expensive option.
Home Services
Average price range: Varies by manufacturer.
Warranty: Yes.
Response time: Within a few hours.
The Home Depot is one of the leading home improvement brands. Its iconic orange logo is synonymous with improving the look, feel and functionality of your home. That’s why it’s only natural that Americans also turn to The Home Depot for their window replacement needs. And for good reason. Home Depot offers a wide range of attractive and affordable replacement windows, backed by a lifetime warranty, and provides professional consultation, measurement, delivery and installation.
One of the benefits offered by The Home Depot that most window replacement companies don’t offer is the ability to schedule a virtual consultation. You’ll then be connected with a design consultant who will help you based on your specific needs. Of course, The Home Depot offers free in-store consultations if you want more options, professional measurements, and expert advice. But if you prefer, you can do everything online and hire a licensed, professional contractor to deliver and install your windows.
Pros
- Lifetime warranty
- Consultations and authorized service centers nationwide
- Wide range of options online and in-store
Cons
- Some locations are more professional than others
- Limited selection of custom designs
Home Window Prices
Average price range: Varies by contractor
Warranty: Varies by contractor
Downtime: Varies by contractor
Home Window Prices is a simple online search portal that helps homeowners find local professionals who can efficiently perform window repairs and replacements. The network offers more than 100 professional home window replacement services, including well-known brands such as Marvin Windows and Doors, Renewal by Andersen, and Jeld Wen Windows and Doors. Home Window Prices partners with quality brands, so homeowners can be sure they are getting the best value.
In addition to a simple online process, Home Window Prices offers helpful information about buying and replacing windows right on its website. Discover different window classifications, energy-efficient window models, and much more by visiting the Home Window Prices website.
Pros
- Quick online search
- Best window repair services online
- Various energy efficiency levels available
Cons - No direct contact with the contractor initially
- Only works with contractors in their network
Simple Home Quotes
Average price range: Varies by local provider
Warranty: Varies by local provider
Response time: Quotes are provided within hours
Simple Home Quotes offers free quotes from local contractors for your window replacement. Simply enter your details and the company will contact you within hours to provide up to three quotes.
Simple Home Quotes does not install windows, so you will need to research contractors individually and get a final price for your project. However, the platform can help you get started on your window replacement project and make it easy to find great, affordable local contractors.
Pros
- Completely free to use
- Get local quotes within hours
- Start searching for quotes within minutes
Cons - Doesn’t ask for window type information
- Quotes can vary significantly
Pella
Average price: $90 to $2,000
Warranty: 10 to 20 years, depending on product
Response time: 3 to 47 days
Pella is a well-known window manufacturer with a modern website and easy-to-use quotes, plus a wide selection of windows. The company has an excellent reputation for customization and product quality. Pella offers wood, vinyl, and fiberglass windows in all major styles.
While some customers have had issues with Pella’s warranties in the past, if you read the terms and conditions carefully and install the product correctly (or seek the help of a qualified Pella installer), you shouldn’t have any problems. The best thing about Pella windows is that there are options if you need specific weather protection or if you’ve had problems with other windows in the past.
Pros
- Virtual or in-home consultation
- Variety of architectural windows
- Available warranties
Cons - Insufficient warranties
- Previous class action lawsuit for negligence
- Somewhat inconsistent customer service
Lowe’s
Average price: $2,000 to $5,000
1-year labor warranty
Response time: 1-3 days
Lowe’s offers a wide range of windows from leading brands to help you with your window replacement. The company caters to every budget, offering options ranging from aluminum and vinyl to fiberglass and wood. Keep in mind that customization options are somewhat limited.
The window replacement process at Lowe’s is not entirely personalized. You can get a free online consultation, but not all locations offer home estimates. Additionally, installations are performed by independent contractors, not by Lowe’s dedicated team.
Pros
- Affordable windows available
- Offers dozens of major brands
- Financing programs available
Cons - Installation is performed by independent contractors.
- One-year installation warranty.
Marvin Windows
Average price: $250 to $1,500
10-year warranty on most components
Turnaround time: 3+ days
Marvin makes stylish replacement windows that complement any decor. The company is known for its wide selection and full customization of finishes and hardware. Marvin also offers a 10-year or longer warranty on its windows.
We appreciate that Marvin partners with local contractors for installation. This makes it easy to get a personalized home estimate early in the design process. Marvin also offers free guides and samples to help you get started on the replacement process.
Pros
- Wide range of window types
- 10-year surface warranty
- Work with local contractors for installation
Cons - Eliminates expensive window options
- Warranty does not include installation
Thumbtack
Average price range: Varies depending on contractor and job.
Warranty: Repair guarantee
Response time: Typically within 4 hours
Thumbtack is the fastest and easiest way to hire window replacement contractors. With a vast network of home improvement professionals, Thumbtack connects homeowners with the service providers they’re looking for quickly and efficiently. Plus, Thumbtack only works with local professionals. So you’ll only get contractor profiles from businesses nearby. This significantly reduces your wait time. And because they’re all professionals, you can be sure the job will be done right.
Thumbtack service providers cover all aspects of window installation, including installation, cleaning, and repair. You can also find professionals for more complex window treatments, such as window tinting and screen installation or replacement. Detailed contractor pages let you see a wealth of information before you even call them, and customer reviews help you narrow down the best options.
Pros
- Thousands of professionals in one network
- Convenient mobile apps
- Thumbtack guarantee
Cons - Not all services are available in all areas.
- Not a direct window replacement contractor.
Remodel Connection
Average price range: Varies by contractor
Warranty: Varies by contractor
Response time: Same-day estimates
Remodel Connection is another tool for comparing window replacement companies. However, one difference from similar services is the number of professionals. Remodel Connection has a vast network of over 500 contractors. So you’ll find a great selection of the best professionals for the job.
Because it’s all done online, Remodel Connection is a great way to estimate the average cost of window replacement in your area and get a quote that’s right for your needs. Answer a few basic questions, such as the type of windows you’re interested in, where you live, how many windows you need to replace, and whether you’re repairing or replacing them. Remodel Connection will then connect you with the best window replacement services.
Pros
- Over 500 leading contractors
- Quick online process
- Easy comparison tool
Cons
- Limited options on the initial form
- Not a direct contractor
Home Renovation
Average price range
Free sign-up and quotes
Warranty: Varies by contractor
Turnaround time: How long it will take to replace the windows in your home.
Home renovation is based on a simple principle: According to experts, replacing windows can increase the resale value of your home by 80% or more. This is a significant incentive for most homeowners. Home Renovation gives you easy access to a large pool of trusted contractors. It is an online portal that connects homeowners with contractors in their area, essentially eliminating the hassle of searching for options.
Thanks to the smart home improvement algorithm, homeowners can get the best comparative prices through a simple tool. They simply need to fill out a form and tell the home improvement company what type of replacement windows they are looking for. The system processes their information through a network of qualified contractors and shows them only the window replacement companies that meet their needs. This way, they receive multiple quotes instantly. This is the ideal system for those who like to compare prices.
Pros
Multiple quotes in one app
Instant online quotes
Wide network of qualified contractors
Cons
- Not a dedicated window replacement service
- Limited pre-registration information
What is the Best Window Replacement and How to Choose the Right One?
The best window replacement for you will depend on several factors, such as your budget, the climate in your area, and the type of home. If you already have a style or design in mind, it is recommended to speak to a contractor directly. They can provide professional advice on whether your design choice is the best option for your home.
To choose the best replacement window for your location, consider the climate. Do you live in a very cold or very hot climate? Does your area get a lot of rain? Once you have answered these questions, you should weigh these four features accordingly:
R-value
- R-Value: This is a measure of how well a window prevents heat loss. Essentially, it’s about insulation. This ensures that the window keeps the right temperature inside and the wrong temperature outside.
U-value.
- U-Value: U-Value is the inverse of R-Value. Therefore, a high R-Value is desirable, and a low U-Value is desirable.
Wind Resistance
- Wind Resistance: This indicates how much air the window lets through. A lower value indicates better insulation.
Solar gain
- The solar heat gain coefficient (SHGC) measures how effectively a window allows the sun to heat a room. This can be good or bad, depending on the climate (bad in the summer, good in the winter). The higher the solar heat gain, the higher the U-value.
The ratings for these different windows are clearly marked, so use these factors to determine which type of window is right for you. For example, if you live in the southern half of Florida, Texas, or Louisiana, look for windows with a U-value of 0.40 or lower and a solar gain of 0.65 or lower. On the other hand, in more northern areas like Maine and New York, look for a U-value of 0.35 (solar gain is not as important a factor in these areas).
How Much Does the Average Window Replacement Cost?
The average cost of replacing a window varies significantly depending on several factors, including:
- Quality of materials used
As with any design, there are high-end and low-end material options. Depending on your budget, you will determine which material is best for you.
- Frame material and type
It is not just the quality of the material that affects the cost of replacing a window. The type of frame and glass you choose will also vary significantly. Vinyl window frames are much more economical than the common alternative, wood. They are simpler to manufacture and more readily available. On the other hand, wood is an attractive option, but its price is 30% to 50% higher. Glazing is another alternative in the middle price range.
- Glass Type
Thickness, special effects (such as glazing or tinting), and other factors can significantly increase the cost of your window package. Energy efficiency is one of the most sought-after features. This will increase the cost of replacing your windows by about 15%. However, before you ignore it, remember that highly energy-efficient windows can provide up to a 75% return on investment in just a few years. - Installation
The level of difficulty of the installation will also determine the price. More complex installations will cost more, including in-home installation, full-frame installation, and more complex bay windows.
- Number of Windows to Replace
This is obvious. The more windows you replace, the higher the cost. However, many window replacement companies offer discounts for replacing multiple windows at once.
Types of Window Replacements
Replacing windows in your home can vary by frame style, glass thickness, glass type, and more. Some of the most common types of window replacements include:
Window frame
- Only the bottom of the window is moved.
Average cost: $170-$360
- Window with frame
The top and bottom of the window can be moved.
Average cost: $450-$600
- Arched windows
These are windows with round frames.
Average cost: $325-$500
- Sash windows
These open outward.
Average cost: $420-$760
- Arched windows
This is a window that extends from an exterior wall, creating a window or balcony inside the home.
Average cost: $1,150-$3,550
- Arched windows
This is a round, semi-circular window on the exterior of the home.
Average cost: $1,400-$3,800
- Sash and casement windows
Similar to shutters, these are single-pane windows that open to the right, left, up, or down.
Average cost: $270-$750
- Emergency exit windows
These are hatch-shaped windows, commonly found in basements.
Average cost: $100-$5,000
- Garden windows
These are small windows that are ideal for displaying plants.
Average cost: $1,000-$4,000
- Glass Block Windows
These are literally glass blocks that are decorative elements.
Average Price: $365-$785
- Sash Windows
These usually open from the top and are ideal for small spaces.
Average Price: $265-$720
- Sash Windows
This is a type of window with multiple panes.
Average Price: $175-$375
- Large Glass Windows
These are large glass windows that are ideal for enjoying beautiful views.
Average Price: $245-$850
- Round Windows
These beautiful windows can be elliptical, oval, round, or semicircular. They are decorative and allow light to enter small spaces.
Average Price: $250-$750
- Skylights
These are installed in the roof, making them perfect for adding more light to limited areas of exterior walls.
Average cost: $900-$2,130
- Sliding windows
These are long, rectangular windows made up of two panels, one of which slides sideways.
Average cost: $320-$1,300
- Storm windows
These offer an extra layer of protection and are installed directly over existing windows.
Average cost: $200-$460
- Cover windows
Another attractive option is decorative windows, which are installed simply to add style to a space.
Average cost: $200-$575
You can also choose to have custom-made windows. Not all companies offer all of these services, but good window replacement companies have a wide selection, so you can choose from a variety of options. They can also help you choose the best replacement windows for your home and budget.
What Window Materials Should I Look For?
As we mentioned earlier, the material of your replacement windows will have a significant impact on the cost of your project. Here are some frame options:
- Wood frames vs. vinyl frames: We’ve already discussed this.
- Epoxy glazing: A middle ground.
- Fiberglass is a composite of wood and epoxy resin; this option won’t rot or deteriorate, but it looks like wood.
When it comes to glass, you can choose single, double, or triple panes. They can have different coatings to withstand weather conditions or achieve greater energy efficiency. Choose your window material based on your location and budget, but also consider factors like energy efficiency and wear and tear over time.
