7 Best Replacement Window Brands for Homes of 2023

While replacement windows and new-construction windows look and operate the same, they serve a very different purposes.

Replacement windows are the perfect option for replacing your existing window with a new one that is the same size in the easiest way possible.

Most window manufacturers and suppliers offer both replacement and new construction windows.

Learn more about the difference between replacement and new-construction window brands and compare our selection of the best replacement window brands.

Compare the average cost, efficiency, and types of the best replacement window brands picked by PropertyNest expert editors:

Best Replacement Window Brands

• Andersen: Best Overall
• Pella: Best Runner-Up
• Jeld-Wen: Best Budget
• Marvin: Best for Strength
• Simonton: Best Vinyl
• Milgard: Best Budget Vinyl
• Alside: Best for Energy-Efficiency

Andersen: Best Overall Replacement Windows

Andersen is one of the most well-known window manufacturing brands with a long company history in the industry and reliability in their quality. Offered & installed by Home Depot services,

this household brand name offers tiers of windows that range in quality and price point, starting at the 100 series and going up to the 400 series.

Andersen replacement windows boast an Energy Star certification and are available in various sizes and colors, including custom options.

A popular choice for both budget and durability, the 200 series double-hung vinyl window will cost around $250 to $300.

If you choose to use one of their certified contractors to replace your windows, you will have exclusive access to their 2-year limited installation warranty as well as financing options.

Pella: Best Runner-Up Replacement Windows

In direct competition with Andersen windows is the Pella window company. Similarly, this name brand has been around for nearly one hundred years and continues to make a name for itself in the window industry.

Pella, sold & installed by Lowe's, offers wood, vinyl, aluminum, and clad windows in a variety of series. Additionally, Pella has another window brand that is exclusive to Lowe’s: ThermaStar by Pella.

When it comes to replacement windows, you will find wood, fiberglass, and vinyl options from Pella. You can request a free virtual or in-home consultation where they will discuss the replacement window process.

For a 250-series vinyl Pella window, expect to spend around $450 to $500, including installation.

You can enjoy worry-free installation when choosing one of Pella’s certified experts to install your replacement windows, along with installation and product warranties.

Jeld-Wen: Best Budget Replacement Windows

Headquartered in Charlotte, North Carolina, Jeld-Wen is another top window manufacturer that is often a better fit for those at a lower price point.

Jen-Weld offers all of the standard window selections, including top-selling double-hung and casement-style windows.

Replacement windows are not the main focus for Jeld-Wen as they focus more on new-construction windows. However, they do have a selection of affordable replacement windows offered and installed by Home Depot.

Including installation, a V-2500 series Jeld-Wen vinyl double-hung window will cost around $400 each.

Jen-Weld offers a limited lifetime warranty that varies across products.

Marvin: Best Strength Replacement Windows

The Marvin brand is right up there, with Pella and Andersen as a leading window manufacturer. Established in 1912, Marvin produces windows with some of the strongest fiberglass and overall quality.

Marvin focuses on creating premium window products, including their Coastal Collection of windows that are manufactured to resist extreme storm and wind conditions.

Marvin offers their Inifinity line of windows that are exclusively designed for replacement. You can choose to work with Marvin authorized replacement contractors to install your replacement windows.

The cost for a Marvin window will significantly vary, anywhere from $350 to $900, depending on the durability and designer selection.

Marvin offers a limited 10-year warranty on manufacturing defects and a limited 20-year warranty on window glass.

Simonton: Best Vinyl Replacement Windows

If you are window shopping at your local Home Depot, you could expect to see the Simonton brand. Founded in 1946, Simonton is a leading window manufacturer.

Simonton Windows specializes in vinyl windows. You can choose from 11 different collections that vary in quality and price.

The large selection of vinyl windows includes replacement windows, available in both stock and custom options.

Although not chosen as our best budget vinyl option, the prices are still very competitive. Expect to pay around $300 for a standard Simonton double-hung vinyl window, including installation.

Simonton offers a superb double lifetime limited warranty.

Milgard: Best Budget Vinyl Replacement Windows

Founded in 1962 and located in Tacoma, Washington, Milgard Windows & Doors offers a modern take on classic vinyl windows.

For affordable vinyl window options, Milgard is a great brand to consider. They offer five tiers of windows varying in both price and quality.

Milgard is known for its wide selection of vinyl replacement windows in varying sizes as well as custom options.

The cost for a Milgard standard vinyl single-hung window only ranges from $225 to $250.

With Milgard windows, you can expect a full lifetime warranty that lasts for as long as you own your home. Additionally, Milgard will cover manufacturing defects.

Alside: Best Energy-Efficient Replacement Windows

Sold throughout the Eastern and Midwestern United States, Alside windows are a great option for vinyl replacement windows. You can find Alside windows at Lowe’s and other independent dealers in these locations.

Alside’s product lines are all about energy efficiency. The Fusion line offers increased insulation, the Mezzo line meets Energy Star requirements, and the Sheffield line has superior durability.

The windows at Alside are custom-made to fit existing window openings, making this brand an ideal option for replacement windows that need to be the same size as your existing windows.

A double-hung vinyl window from Alside’s Mezzo line will cost about $600, including installation.

Alside offers a limited lifetime warranty. They also cover manufacturing defects for up to 10 years, and the warranty is transferable from homeowner to homeowner.

What Is the Difference Between Replacement and New-Construction Windows?

As the names state, a new-construction window should be used when a new wall is being framed in, whereas a replacement window should be used to replace an existing window. The difference is in the style of the frame around each window.

A new-construction window frame has a flange, or a nail fin, around the perimeter on the exterior side of the window that will be attached directly to the wall framing.

The wall framing needs to be exposed for a proper installation. To install a new-construction window in an existing home would require removing drywall, exterior siding, and trim in order to get down to the studs.

Replacement windows exist to avoid this scenario. Replacement windows are purchased as the exact size of your current window and are installed in the existing opening.

Replacement windows, also known as retrofit windows, are just the body of a window and are installed over the existing window frame.

Should You Hire a Professional to Install Replacement Windows?

While installing replacement windows is easier than installing new-construction windows, it is still a job that should be left to the professionals for the following reasons:

Quality of Install

You want the seal around your new windows to be airtight. A professional window installer will make sure the existing window frame is plum and that the replacement window fits perfectly.

It may be difficult for the average homeowner to notice any leaks during the installation, which would result in drafts that increase your energy bill.

Project Duration

You will likely be learning as you go if you choose to install replacement windows yourself. If you are replacing more than one window, it could take a long time to complete the project.

Not having windows separating the inside of your home from the outside will impact your energy use and comfort. A professional will be able to complete the replacement window installation a lot faster, reducing the length of the interruption.

Certified Installation

If you choose a certified installer to replace your windows, you can rest easy knowing the job will be done right and the installation will hold up well for years to come.

Some companies may even stand by their work and offer a limited warranty on the installation of the replacement windows.

Choosing the Right Professional to Install Replacement Windows

Possibly more difficult than deciding on your replacement windows may be choosing the right contractor to install your replacements.

You want to make sure that your install can demonstrate good project management, take accurate measurements and pay attention to detail, has ample experience in your type of project, and, of course, is licensed, insured, and trustworthy.

You can find this replacement service with some of the major window manufacturers that are available nationwide like Andersen or Pella.

However, this service is naturally only available if you go with their windows.

The other convenient option is to go with nationally-recognized and accessible retailers like Home Depot or Lowe's.

They offer professional installation services and free consultation, whether you opt for a virtual or in-home one by an expert you can speak to about your project.

They can manage and coordinate the project with the contractor, along with advising you on the best window style and brand for your home.

Which Materials Do Replacement Windows Come In?

Replacement windows come in every material option that new-construction windows are available in, including:

Vinyl Windows

Vinyl is the most popular choice for replacement windows. This material, made of PVC plastic, provides a nice balance between budget and durability.

Vinyl material is virtually maintenance-free and can be easily cleaned. You will choose from a selection of available colors and not have to worry about painting the frames once in place.

Even at the lower price point, vinyl windows insulate well and will provide adequate protection on the exterior of your home.

Wood Windows

Wood is typically the most expensive window material. Homeowners opt for wood due to the classic look it gives a home.

Once installed, the wood frame and grid will need to be painted to protect the material from the elements. You will also need to repaint every couple of years for maintenance.

Wood windows are available with exterior cladding, typically a vinyl or aluminum material. This offers better protection on the outside and you are still able to enjoy the wood-look inside.

Composite Widnows

For a balance between budget and aesthetics, composite windows are a great choice. These windows are made of a combination of materials such as wood, laminated wood, fiberglass, and/or plastic.

The goal of composite windows is typically to provide the look of wood with the durability of vinyl.

Not every brand will offer composite material windows, so you may have to do some shopping around to find a manufacturer that offers this type.

Aluminum Windows

Homeowners have veered away from using aluminum windows at their personal residences. This material is more often used in commercial settings.

If homeowners do choose aluminum windows, it is often in an effort to fit with a certain style preference such as contemporary or mid-century modern.

Aluminum window frames do not have great insulating properties. You should opt for double- or even triple-paned glass to combat this.

Which Material Is Best for Replacement Windows?

The best material for replacement windows, whether wood, vinyl, aluminum, or composite, will ultimately come down to your personal preference.

If you are only replacing a few windows, you might opt for replacement windows that are the same material as your remaining windows to keep a cohesive look throughout your home.

Can You Restore Your Windows Instead of Replacing Them?

Restoring your windows rather than replacing them is certainly an option. You will need to consider the condition of your existing windows and if it is worth the time and effort to restore them.

You should replace your windows rather than restore them if they exhibit any of the following conditions:

• Water Damage or Leaks
• Broken or Fogged Glass
• Poor Energy-Efficiency
• Noticeable Drafts
• Excessive Maintenance Required

Types of Replacement Windows and Pros & Cons

Replacement windows are available in most of the same new-construction window types. You will be able to replace your existing window in kind with the following types of replacement windows:

Double-Hung

This type of replacement window is most popular in residential homes. It is comprised of two separate window sashes, one that slides up and one that slides down. This allows you to open the window from both the top and bottom to improve air circulation.

Single-Hung

A single-hung replacement window is separated into two sections similar to a double-hung window, but only the bottom sash moves. The top sash is permanently fixed.

Awning-Style

An awning-style replacement window has a hinge at the top and opens up and out as an awning would. It is opened with a crank and firmly presses against the frame when closed, creating a very tight seal.

Casement-Style

Rotate an awning-style window 90 degrees, and you will have a casement-style replacement window. This window opens with a crank from either the left or right side and also provides a very tight seal against the frame.

Methodology

How We Picked Our Top Replacement Window Brands

In no particular order, we used five main criteria to evaluate our top picks for replacement window brands.

Customer Satisfaction

The brands we chose boast a high number of satisfactory customer reviews. Customers cite being satisfied with their purchases and are often repeat buyers.

Brand Accessibility

To ensure these replacement windows are easily purchased by anyone interested, we chose products from large and accessible retailers like Lowe’s and Home Depot, as well as those available at independent home centers.

Pricing

By comparing various replacement windows made of the same material and same size, we were able to justify the price of all of our top replacement window picks.

Quality & Features

Our replacement window brands all offer a wide selection of replacement windows in various sizes and materials. The products are all accompanied by a substantial warranty.