According to our research, the best window brands are Renewal by Andersen, Castle Windows and Champion Windows. We analyzed each company’s website for product catalogs, customization options, availability, energy efficiency upgrades and pricing when available, read 100 customer reviews per provider and contacted company representatives for additional product information.
Windows are an important part of your home. The best window brands protect your home’s interior from the elements and regulate temperatures for energy efficiency. They also help to define your home’s style and character.
Top 8 Window Brands of 2024
Here are our top picks for window brands.
- Renewal by Andersen: Our top pick
- Castle Windows: Our pick for exteriors
- Champion Windows: Our pick for patios
- Harvey: Our pick for customization
- Pella: Our pick for standard windows
- Marvin: Our pick for wellness
- Ply Gem: Our pick for home improvement
- Milgard: Our pick for aluminum windows
Compare Window Brands
Use the table below to compare costs, star ratings and BBB scores of our best window brands:
Only 3% of survey respondents claimed they wish they had gone with a DIY or local installer. 67% of respondents said they were satisfied with their service and new windows after choosing a national window installer such as Renewal by Andersen
Renewal by Andersen
Our Top Pick
Castle
Best for Exteriors
Champion
Best for Financing
Harvey
Best for Customization
Pella
Best Product Offerings
Marvin
Best for Wellness
Ply Gem
Best for Home Imporvement
Milgard
Best for Aluminum Windows
What To Consider When Choosing the Best Window Brand
There are many factors to weigh when choosing replacement windows, including window style, glass options, hardware and window frame material. Let’s take a closer look to help you narrow down your choices.
Window Types
Below is a breakdown of popular window types to help you determine which fits your functional and stylistic needs.
- Bay and bow: A bay window consists of large glass panes in an angled frame that protrudes from your home. Bow windows are similar but have a more curved design. Due to their size, these windows can be expensive but can make a great statement piece.
- Casement: Casement windows use a hand crank to open and swing outward to the left or the right, similar to a door.
- Garden: A garden window, sometimes called a greenhouse window, has a display space that extends from your home. You can use this space to grow plants or herbs.
- Double-hung: Double-hung windows have two movable sashes and open from the top or bottom. This is a popular and affordable style.
- Shaped: Circle or other shaped windows are typically more expensive due to the labor and materials required to shape them. However, they add a unique flare to your home.
- Single-hung: Single-hung windows operate similarly to double-hung windows but have a fixed lower sash for added security.
- Picture: Picture windows, also called fixed windows, have one glass pane. Though they don’t open, they provide stunning views of your landscape. Many picture windows have unique sizes and shapes, requiring you to place a custom order.
Warranties
Check that any window brand you’re considering includes a warranty to protect your investment. The coverage level varies by product. High-end options such as wood windows usually include more comprehensive warranties. Cheaper options, such as vinyl windows, have shorter warranties of one to two years.
Window warranties are typically separated into two types of coverage: one for workmanship and one for components.
Window Warranties
This coverage refers to the physical parts and construction of the window. Limited warranties are common in the industry, while lifetime warranties are not the standard. Window companies that do offer a lifetime warranty are a secure investment. Window warranties often cover the following:
- Window materials
- Cosmetic defects
- Broken or malfunctioning hardware
- Energy-efficient glass
- Obstructed vision or issues with the seal
- Installation and related errors performed by the installing contractor
- Custom aspects of your design
- Accidental damage to the glass
Window Labor Warranties
This coverage refers to the workmanship or installation of the product. Therefore, window labor warranties cover installation errors, not manufacturing issues. You may need to pay a service fee to make a claim on a window labor warranty.
Energy Efficiency
Here are a few factors to consider when it comes to the energy efficiency of your new windows:
- Frame material: When your window frames are constructed of a material that resists water and structural damage from extreme temperatures, their airtight seal is likely to last longer. When your windows are fully sealed, warm air won’t leak out of your house as easily. Low-transfer materials include wood, composite or vinyl.
- Pane count: Double-pane windows are more eco-friendly than single-pane windows because of the air gap separating the two individual panes of glass. This gap prevents hot air from exiting and adds fog resistance to your new windows.
- Finish or glazing: Eco-friendly windows may have a glaze that limits the impact of ultraviolet light on your house and surrounding furniture. This finish leads to better energy efficiency in your home.
The Bottom Line
Windows are vital to your home’s function, safety, energy efficiency and style, so take time to ensure you’re choosing the right brand. Castle Windows is ideal for homeowners looking to upgrade their home’s entire exterior, offering high-quality window and door installation alongside roofing and siding services.
Renewal by Andersen offers a large selection of standard and specialty windows with white-glove installation. Consider Harvey Windows if you want complete control over your window hardware, glass and other customization options.
We recommend getting at least three quotes from different window brands to compare products and pricing. Enter your ZIP code in our tool below to quickly request free quotes or set up consultations.
Frequently Asked Questions About Windows
Here are a few hallmarks of a good window company:
- Quality: A window company should stand by its product by including a limited lifetime warranty or better.
- Installation: Window installers certified by the American Window and Door Institute and Installation Masters are more likely to do the job right the first time.
- Price: Estimates should be itemized and easy to understand. Your quote should list labor and installation costs separately from the cost of each window.
- Reputation: Look for positive reviews on third-party sites and a well-rounded rating on the BBB.
For unmatched durability, consider fiberglass frames, which can last up to 40 years. Note that during this time, there may be necessary maintenance to keep the seals fresh or replace aging glass.
Most window companies offer limited lifetime warranties. However, Castle offers an impressive transferable lifetime warranty.
Based on our research, Milgard windows are among the most affordable with a price range of $300 to $700.
Methodology: Our System for Ranking the Best Window Brands
If you have feedback or questions about this article, please email the MarketWatch Guides team at editors@marketwatchguides.