Window remodeling can breathe new life into your home by reflecting your sense of style and creating warm, inviting spaces filled with natural light. Replacement window installation, however, can come with a hefty price tag. If you’re looking to replace your existing windows, you’re likely searching for the best window brands that offer quality and convenience.
We have compiled a list of the best window companies that offer reasonably priced replacement options and various window styles. This guide details each company’s windows catalog, recommends the best economical options, and provides tips on finding the most qualified installers for your project.
Top Affordable Window Replacement Companies
Review top choices for respected windows companies that offer a balance of choice, style, and affordability:
Champion Windows
Fast Facts:
- State Availability: 17 (available in Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, Tennessee, Texas, South Carolina, and Wisconsin)
- Warranty Options: Limited lifetime warranty
- Price Range: $400–$1,000
- Energy-Efficient Products Available: Yes
Upsides and Downsides
Review key pros and cons of Champion Windows:
| Upsides | Downsides |
|---|---|
| Has almost 70 years of business experience | Provided limited pricing information online |
| Manufactures its own product lines | Is priced higher than other window brands |
| Offers a transferable lifetime warranty | Sells vinyl windows exclusively |
What We Like: In its nearly 70 years in business, Champion Windows has established itself as a leader in the windows industry. Although the company has expanded its catalog beyond window offerings, its reputation for manufacturing quality products remains.
The company sells vinyl replacement windows that are, according to Champion, made from pure vinyl with no additional fillers. These windows are resistant to warping, fading, or cracking and are low-maintenance. Since vinyl is a very cost-efficient window material, homeowners have the option to install vinyl window replacements that will last for years.
Although Champion limits pricing details online, it offers pricing ranges for interested customers. You can choose picture, sliding, or double-hung windows for your home for low-cost options with high-quality looks. These Energy Star-certified windows come with Champion’s signature Comfort 365 Window Glass, which uses a special coating process and argon gas to provide additional insulation.
Types of Windows Available
Champion Windows offers these window styles:
- Basement hopper windows
- Bay windows
- Bow windows
- Casement windows
- Double-hung windows
- Garden windows
- Glass block windows
- Picture windows
- Shaped windows
- Sliding windows
Castle Windows
Fast Facts:
- State Availability: 11 (available in Connecticut, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, and West Virginia)
- Warranty Options: Lifetime warranty
- Price Range: $200–$900
- Energy-Efficient Products Available: Yes
Upsides and Downsides
Review key highlights about Castle Windows:
| Upsides | Downsides |
|---|---|
| Offers lifetime guarantee on all products | Supplies window products to 11 states |
| Has built an excellent reputation as a customer-focused, family-run company | Restricts catalog to vinyl windows |
| Maintains fixed pricing between wholesalers and retailers | Omits product details and pricing from its website |
What We Like: As a 45-year-old, family-run business, Castle Windows prides itself on treating customers like family. Although its customer base is limited to 11 states, you might choose Castle Windows if you prefer a smaller windows company with the capacity to provide personalized, customer-focused experiences.
The company provides a variety of custom-made window products for homeowners. Each window goes through thorough quality-control testing and is backed with a limited lifetime warranty. The company also offers additional products and services, including doors, siding, and roofing options.
For homeowners looking for simple yet stylish replacements for their homes, Castle Windows offers vinyl double-hung windows, which provide a more traditional look. These windows have a movable sash at the top and bottom and tilt-in maneuverability, making them easy to clean.
Castle’s vinyl awning windows are another versatile option that works anywhere you want an openable window. Operating by a hinge at the top of the frame, these windows can provide excellent ventilation in a bedroom, bathroom, or kitchen. Both options work well as a replacement for existing or new-construction windows.
Types of Windows Available
Castle Windows offers these window options:
- Awning windows
- Bay windows
- Basement hoppers windows
- Bow windows
- Casement windows
- Deadlite windows
- Double-hung windows
- Garden windows
- Slider windows
- Specialty windows
- Transom windows
Andersen
Fast Facts:
- State Availability: 50
- Warranty Options: Limited and lifetime limited warranties
- Price Range: $300–$2,800
- Energy-Efficient Products Available: Yes
Upsides and Downsides
Review key pros and cons of Andersen:
| Upsides | Downsides |
|---|---|
| Supplies aluminum, composite, fiberglass, vinyl, and wood options | Pricing varies among Andersen distributors |
| Sells windows nationwide and worldwide | Charges premium pricing for its products |
| Is recognized as a well-known and respected brand | Must contact Andersen for windows pricing |
What We Like: One of the most recognizable names among window companies, Andersen offers an extensive selection of window styles and materials that gives homeowners the flexibility to create the perfect windows for their homes.
The company’s vast catalog includes wood, vinyl, composite, fiberglass, and aluminum windows, providing plenty of options to increase your home’s curb appeal. Homeowners looking to reduce their energy bills can choose from Andersen’s energy-efficient windows, which balance appealing styles with energy savings.
Andersen offers economical options for its windows series, making it easy to find the best windows for your home improvement budget. The Andersen 100 Series offers quality windows made from Fibrex composite material, which the company claims is twice as strong and 12 times thicker than painted vinyl. The material is durable and suitable for all climates.
The Andersen 200 Series blends the traditional elegance of wood windows with the strength of vinyl windows. The vinyl exterior offers more protection against the elements, helping your home’s windows last longer. Both series come with Energy Star-certified glass options that will increase your windows budget and decrease your utility bills in the future.
Types of Windows Available
Andersen offers these window styles:
- Awning windows
- Bay windows
- Bow windows
- Casement windows
- Double-hung windows
- Gliding windows
- Pass-through windows
- Picture windows
- Specialty windows
Marvin Windows
Fast Facts:
- State Availability: 50
- Warranty Options: Limited warranties
- Price Range: $400–$1,700
- Energy-Efficient Products Available: Yes
Upsides and Downsides
Review key highlights about Marvin Windows:
| Upsides | Downsides |
|---|---|
| Provides service to all 50 states | Priced higher due to brand reputation |
| Sells all Energy Star-certified windows | Offers fewer windows series than other brands |
| Has 77 years of experience in the windows industry | Does not offer vinyl windows |
What We Like: Marvin Windows’ legacy began in 1912 as a lumber company. After moving to windows manufacturing in 1945, the company has earned one of the best reputations in the industry.
Although Marvin Windows is known for its fiberglass windows, the company also offers wood and extruded aluminum options. The company also provides wood selections with a fiberglass exterior, combining the beauty of the natural wood with the added protection of fiberglass.
The Marvin Essential Collection provides homeowners with fiberglass window frames with clean lines and little maintenance. The company’s signature Ultrex pultruded fiberglass covers the interior and exterior of these windows, making these windows an excellent long-term investment.
Try the Marvin Elevate collection if you want to add more warmth to your home’s ambiance. This series pairs the resilience of the pultruded fiberglass exterior with a rich wooden interior, giving homeowners the ideal mix of strength and beauty.
Types of Windows Available
Marvin Windows offers these window options:
- Awning windows
- Bay windows
- Bow windows
- Casement windows
- Corner windows
- Double-hung windows
- Picture windows
- Skylights
- Sliding windows
- Specialty windows
Milgard Windows
Fast Facts:
- State Availability: 16 (available in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington)
- Warranty Options: Full and limited lifetime warranties
- Price Range: $175–$1,500
- Energy-Efficient Products Available: Yes
Upsides and Downsides
Review key factors about Milgard Windows:
| Upsides | Downsides |
|---|---|
| Produces all parts of its windows | Does not offer pricing information online |
| Manufactures aluminum, fiberglass, and vinyl windows | Sells products to the western United States only |
| Has longevity in the windows market with 90 years of experience | Markets its products at higher-than-average costs |
What We Like: Homeowners in the western states will recognize Milgard Windows as a top-tier company in their area. This 90-year-old company has built a reputation for manufacturing affordable windows that perfectly complement your home’s aesthetics.
Milgard provides resilient windows with its selection of aluminum, fiberglass, and vinyl windows. Aside from Milgard-certified dealers, you can also find its products in home improvement stores such as Lowe’s or The Home Depot.
Customers looking for economical window replacements might be interested in Milgard’s Style Line Series. This line of slimmer frame vinyl windows, designed to allow more natural light, will complement any living room, dining room, or bedroom. You can choose from seven exterior finishes and six styles to customize your windows to suit your taste.
Milgard also offers the Ultra Series, a fiberglass window line that works well in all climates. This series is weatherproof and resistant to warping or swelling, making the windows a worthwhile investment.
Types of Windows Available
Milgard Windows offers these options:
- Awning windows
- Bay windows
- Bow windows
- Casement windows
- Double-hung windows
- Garden windows
- Horizontal slider windows
- Picture windows
- Radius windows
- Single-hung windows
Read More: Milgard Windows Review
Pella
Fast Facts:
- State Availability: 50
- Warranty Options: Limited warranties
- Price Range: $100–$1,750
- Energy-Efficient Products Available: Yes
Upsides and Downsides
Review key pros and cons of Pella windows:
| Upsides | Downsides |
|---|---|
| Produces high-quality wood, vinyl, and fiberglass windows | Can only purchase in Pella Showrooms, through its dealers or Lowe's retail stores. |
| Distributes products throughout all 50 states | Does not offer the same type of warranty for each product |
| Has become a highly respected and reputable company | Limited color options compared to other window company offerings |
What We Like: As one of the largest nationwide manufacturers of windows in the United States, Pella has become a recognizable brand for contractors and homeowners. Its large selection of window styles and materials ensures that you’ll find the right windows for your home.
Homeowners can view sample windows in one of the 200 Pella showrooms across the country. The company also offers in-home and virtual consultations, making it easy for customers to start their window upgrade process.
The Pella 250 Series includes sturdy, low-maintenance windows in many styles. This series, along with the full line of Pella windows, offer energy-efficient upgrades to help you reduce your energy usage. Thanks to low-emissivity (Low-E) insulating glass and argon gas, the 250 series was recognized on Energy Star’s 2022 Most Efficient list.
Encompass by Pella is another vinyl window line that provides security and style to any home. Although fewer styles are available than the 250 series, homeowners can find simple, economical windows for a reasonable price line. The Encompass line is also Energy Star-certified and easy-care, and it doesn’t require any retouches in the future.
Types of Windows Available
Pella offers the following types of windows:
- Awning windows
- Bay windows
- Bow windows
- Casement windows
- Custom windows
- Double-hung windows
- Picture windows
- Single-hung windows
- Sliding windows
- Specialty windows
Read More: Pella Windows Review
Simonton
Fast Facts:
- State Availability: 50 states
- Warranty Options: Double lifetime limited warranty
- Price Range: $200–$1,200
- Energy-Efficient Products Available: Yes
Upsides and Downsides
Review key highlights regarding Simonton:
| Upsides | Downsides |
|---|---|
| Manufactures 10 types of windows styles | Lacks a variety of windows material options |
| Makes products available through its network of contractors, suppliers, and major retailers | Offers different windows selections based on regional location |
| Provides nationwide distribution | Has inconsistent warranty coverage among its products |
What We Like: Simonton offers one of the largest selections of window styles, finishes, and customization options available. Specializing in vinyl window offers, the company prides itself on providing durable, aesthetically pleasing windows that are also energy efficient.
Simonton’s product lines even include windows that resemble the elegance of wood designs but with the long-lasting reliability of vinyl. The company’s windows also provide noise reduction and can protect your furniture from fading due to excess sunlight.
The Reflections collection would be an excellent choice for East Coast homeowners looking to keep their replacement project budget low. With customizations such as internal wood grain laminates, several exterior colors, grids, and hardware choices, you are free to create the perfect windows to reflect your style.
If you live on the West Coast, you can minimize your windows upgrade costs by selecting from the Simonton Madeira series. This line includes traditional styles with wide frames and wood-like appearances. Both series offer energy-efficiency options, including double-pane and triple-pane upgrades.
Types of Windows Available
Simonton offers a variety of window types:
- Awning windows
- Bay windows
- Bow windows
- Casement windows
- Double-hung windows
- Garden windows
- Geometric windows
- Picture windows
- Single-hung windows
- Slider windows
Read More: Simonton Windows Review
How to Choose Cost-Effective Window Replacements
When researching affordable window replacement options, make sure you have a complete plan that includes the number of windows to be replaced and their locations. These baseline details will directly influence your overall budget. Additional cost factors include the size of the windows, the type of windows, frame materials, and customizations. Energy-efficiency options will also affect the cost.
You should also thoroughly research any companies you consider. Whether the manufacturer is a national brand or a company focused on a regional area, it’s imperative to thoroughly review its history, brand reputation, homeowner opinions, and more. Below is a list of factors to consider while preparing for your window replacement project.
Types of Windows
These are common types of windows used in homes:
- Awning windows: These windows are built with hinges at the top of the frame, allowing them to open outward easily. They work well higher in the wall since they can be opened to allow ventilation while maintaining your privacy and safety.
- Bay windows: This recognizable window style offers a protruding shape from the home with a mixture of fixed and movable window panels. Homeowners often add a sitting area or ledge to take advantage of the added space.
- Bow windows: Similar to bay windows, the protruding shape of the bow windows forms a more curved shape. This is an excellent option for anyone who wants a bay window‘s uniqueness with less overhang and a sleeker style.
- Casement windows: Built with a hinge on the left or right side, these windows can bring brightness into any room with limited or obstructed views. Typically installations include a pair of windows on either side of a wall.
- Custom windows: Some window companies offer the option for custom designs, giving homeowners the ability to add personal touches to their homes. Installation requires exact measurements taken by your contractor or installer to ensure the perfect fit.
- Double-hung windows: This window style is distinct from the single-hung variety in that both panels, or sashes, can be opened or closed. This functionality allows for better air circulation and makes them easier to clean.
- Egress windows: These windows are usually installed in a basement and used for emergencies, such as escaping a fire. Some areas require the installation of egress windows in basements, especially if used as a bedroom.
- Garden windows: These windows are the perfect option for homeowners with a green thumb. Built with a protruding shelf and allowing for plenty of light, you can place your potted plants and herbs to create a mini greenhouse.
- Hopper windows: Installed with a hinge on the bottom, they open inward using a crank. These windows work well in small spaces and can be used in basements to provide ventilation.
- Picture windows: Perfect for showcasing a spectacular view, these large windows offer unobstructed views and lots of light. Picture windows are built without grids, making them the perfect art frame to display the best views surrounding your home.
- Single-hung windows: Known for their traditional styling, these windows open and close with a moving sash on the bottom panel. The added security of a permanently fixed top panel is ideal for ground-level installations.
- Sliding windows: Made for tight spaces, this type of window slides left or right on a track. You can add them in bathrooms, kitchens, or any room where space is limited.
- Storm windows: Made for coastal homes that experience hurricanes or heavy storms, storm windows provide added security with impact-resistant glass.
- Transom windows: These are often used to add a decorative touch to a door and use unique shapes such as half circles or rectangles. They can also be used around plain windows as an accent piece, adding flair or a distinctive focal point.
Window Warranties
Since an investment into replacement windows can be a hefty sum, you want to ensure that your products are protected in the future. It’s important to select windows with ironclad warranties. Here are a few examples of standard warranties offered for windows:
- Limited lifetime warranty: The most common warranty offered by a manufacturer covers the windows’ operation and external defects.
- Lifetime warranty: These warranties are a step above the limited warranty and include any replacement parts.
- Double lifetime warranty: The same coverage as a lifetime warranty, but homeowners would be covered for as long as they own the home.
- Transferable warranty: If you decide to sell your home, your warranty will transfer to the new owner. In many cases, the new owners would be covered for the remainder of your previous warranty or could have their own designated time frame for coverage.
The manufacturer determines the “lifetime” of these warranties based on how long it considers your windows to be in top-quality condition. For low-quality windows, that could be three to five years. For high-quality windows, your coverage could last 15 to 20 years.
Because warranty options vary between each company, you must take the time to review the terms and conditions of your coverage thoroughly. For example, a company may offer a limited lifetime warranty, but you read the details and realize it only covers the window frames, excluding all other parts and issues.
Look for the following coverage details when reviewing window warranty details:
- A definition and explanation of “lifetime”
- Frame coverage
- Glass coverage
- Hardware coverage
- Labor and installation
What to Look for in Homeowner Reviews
It is important to include homeowner reviews in your research for replacement windows. They will give you a sense of the type of company you will be working with and a glimpse into a typical homeowner experience. Take the time to review both good and bad reviews to understand the company better.
We recommend looking for these points:
- References to specific products and projects: Customers will often praise or disparage particular products purchased from the company. Keep an eye out for any window lines you may be interested in, and check those reviews. You can also gain insight into another homeowner’s experiences with the same type of project that you may be planning. There could be mentions of costs, the planning process, and any roadblocks they may have encountered.
- Installation time frames: A critical factor in any window installation is the projected time frame to complete the project. Based on the project size and the windows needed, your quote will include a projection of your project from start to finish. While reading these reviews, note any broken promises or failed follow-ups when these problems occur. A company that consistently fails to follow through on its projects or avoids accountability for its mistakes should not be up for consideration.
- Warranty issues: Consider any customer complaints involving warranty replacement requests. Although you will be given full details about your windows’ warranty, sometimes details in the fine print may be overlooked. Homeowners’ reviews will offer some insight into common warranty problems, failed replacements, or failures on the company’s part to disclose necessary information.
- Customer service and technicians: These are the primary contact points when you have a problem with your installation or need additional assistance. Customers may also speak about good or bad experiences with an installer’s technicians or customer service. These factors could also be instrumental in helping you pick the best company for your project. Poor customer service and inefficient technicians indicate more significant issues that should not be ignored.
How to Find a Local Window Installer
Once you have selected your replacement windows, you will need to hire a reputable installer to complete the job. The quality of the installer will determine how well the job is completed and could prevent issues down the road.
Try one of these methods to find the best installer for your project:
- Windows manufacturer recommendations: After purchasing windows directly from the manufacturer, the company will typically recommend finding an installer certified to install its products. Windows companies usually provide information for a network of contractors and installers certified for their products. Review these suggestions and include any homeowner reviews in your search.
- Home retailer installations: If you decide to purchase through a major retailer such as The Home Depot or Lowe’s, you have the option to use its installation program. These installers are qualified to complete the installation but may not be certified to handle your products. Get complete details about their qualifications and review the terms for any additional warranties for their materials and labor.
- Friends, family, and neighbor recommendations: Reach out to anyone you know who has completed any recent windows replacement installations and get their opinion about their experience. Ask questions about the project timeline, interactions with the company, and any issues that may have occurred since the installation.
For any installer you choose, verify that the company and technicians have the proper certifications and licenses to complete the installation. Get a detailed quote for the project and an estimated timeline for its completion. Do not work with any installer who will not answer your questions directly, gives vague terms of service, or does not respond promptly.
Our Recommendation
Champion Windows tops our list thanks to its brand reputation and pure vinyl window options. Its simple, budget-friendly designs will work in most homes, helping to keep your replacement window costs to a minimum. In addition, its selection of energy-efficient windows will assist homeowners in their efforts to reduce their monthly energy bills.
If you are looking for a customer-focused experience, you might choose Castle Windows. Its vinyl window selection lets you add the right touch of charm throughout your home. The company also offers additional home services, making it an ideal one-stop solution for homeowners.
When exploring your options for beautiful, affordable window replacements, compare quotes from at least three companies to find your best price, style options, and warranty details. To get started on your replacement window installation, use the tool below to find the best replacement companies in your area.
Cheap Window Replacement FAQ
How We Chose the Top Window Brands
We researched and analyzed dozens of window manufacturers. Then, we crafted a rating system based on each brand’s standard product offerings and energy-efficient options for windows and doors.
We speak directly to a representative at each company to learn how the installation process with each provider works and determine how each brand personalizes its custom windows for each home. We also closely analyzed each company’s warranty options to ensure their product and labor guarantees match or exceed industry standards.
Other factors include the manufacturer’s years of experience and customer reputation. In addition, we analyzed the 100 most recent Google Reviews for each provider across various locations and branches.