The Best Replacement Residential Windows

Pella

• The Pella Company was established in 1925 in the town of Pella, Iowa. Today, it is the second-largest producer of doors, windows and other home products in the world. The company offers a large selection of styles, sizes and colors, but deals primarily with wood products, though they also have an extensive vinyl line. Its selection includes standard single- or double-hung windows, which slide up and down vertically; vertical sliders which open vertically; and awning windows, which push open. The wood products tend to cost more than other materials, which can make them too expensive for some buyers. All windows are low maintenance, requiring no painting and little upkeep. The company offers a variety of features, including easy to change, between-the-pane coverings, which can be ideal for families with pets or small children. The glass and frames are made of some of the most durable materials on the market, making them some of the industry’s longest-lasting around. Pella products can be purchased online or from several nationwide home improvement stores. Since the company is based in the Midwest, some customers complain that shipping to certain areas is slow, and installation must be precise for windows to function properly.

CertainTeed

• Another large producer, CertainTeed offers windows, doors and other products that are available at retailers across the country. CertainTeed has been in business for more than a century and provides lines in a variety of materials. Customers can choose from several different lines, including Bryn Mawr II, New Castle and Devon II, each of which provides a different price range, style options and other benefits. The company provides a wide variety of styles, colors and other design features, some of which may be stained or painted to match home décor. For eco-conscious consumers, the Bryn Mawr II line offers a thermally efficient construction, and low-emissivity glazing to aid in temperature retention. Customer service receives overall positive reviews and on-time delivery is guaranteed in most parts of the country. Overall, customer reviews are positive, highly rating quality and customer service.

Andersen

• Andersen produces a variety of window styles, shapes and colors, and offers a ‘specialty’ option which can match unusual or special shapes for homeowners. There are a number of styles and models to choose from, all of which are constructed of durable materials that require little upkeep. The windows feature a patented combination of wood and plastic, which makes the frames durable and long-lasting. Some Andersen lines feature highly rated energy efficiency, specialty glazing and other ways to lower heating and cooling costs. Andersen is generally highly regarded in the business, though some consumer complaints mention poor customer service and difficulty receiving warranty work.

Wincore

• Wincore is a smaller company based in West Virginia that provides two series for retrofitting projects. Both series have vinyl-based frames, and are specially designed to replicate wood as closely as possible. The retrofit windows are also some of the most energy efficient on the market, using low-emissivity glass to reduce heat transfer and a variety of other construction techniques to help reduce energy waste and heating costs. All products come complete with a comprehensive warranty, which can be activated online by buyers. Products can be purchased from most nationwide home improvement stores or from the company directly. Wincore has some of the most energy efficient products on the market and few customer service or warranty complaints.