How to Choose a Window Replacement Company

Replacing your home’s windows can be a worthwhile investment that may enhance the aesthetics, energy efficiency, and value of your home. However, choosing the right window replacement company can be a daunting task given the multitude of options available. But, don’t worry, this guide will help you navigate the selection process, ensuring you make an informed decision that meets your needs and budget.

We’ve broken down the selection process into six easy steps, providing you with a simple and solid foundation for choosing the best window replacement company for you:

1. Assess window types and materials
2. Evaluate product energy efficiency
3. Verify company credentials
4. Check warranties and financing options
5. Consider customer service
6. Research and gather recommendations

Assess window types and materials

Before contacting any companies, it is essential to assess your specific window requirements, including window types and materials. Doing so will help you narrow down your company choices and clearly communicate what you want with potential contractors. Additionally, understanding exactly what you need may also aid in setting a realistic budget for your window replacement project.

Window types

There is a large variety of window types available, many of which are offered by most window replacement companies. Some window types include the following:

• Single-hung windows
• Double-hung windows
• Casement windows
• Sliding windows
• Bay windows
• Awning windows
• Picture windows

Different styles offer varying levels of ventilation, ease of cleaning, and aesthetic appeal.

Materials

In addition to a variety of window types, there is a variety of window materials available to choose from based on your preferences for maintenance, insulation, and aesthetics. Some common materials include the following:

• Wood — a classic look but often requires more maintenance
• Vinyl — low maintenance and energy-efficient
• Aluminum — durable but less energy-efficient
• Fiberglass — high durability and insulation but can be more expensive
• Composite — high durability and insulation but can be more expensive

It’s important to consider potential long-term savings from energy-efficient windows (vinyl, fiberglass, and composite offer the most energy efficient window material options) which can reduce heating and cooling costs.

Evaluate product energy efficiency

When choosing a window replacement company, it's important to look for specific energy efficiency features in the windows they offer. These features can significantly impact your home's energy consumption, comfort, and overall savings on heating and cooling costs. Some key energy efficiency features to look out for include the following:

• Low-E glass coatings — Low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings are thin, invisible layers of metal or metallic oxide applied to the glass that help reduce heat transfer and reduce the amount of ultraviolet (UV) light that enters the home.
• Multiple panes — Windows with multiple panes (double or triple glazing) provide better insulation compared to single-pane windows. In most cases, multiple-pane windows also provide increased soundproofing and condensation reduction.
• Gas fills — Between the panes of multi-pane windows, inert gasses like argon or krypton can be used instead of air. Argon and krypton gas fills have lower thermal conductivity than air, providing superior insulation that can reduce heat loss or gain.
• Warm edge spacers — Spacers are used to separate the glass panes in double or triple glazing. Some companies may provide Warm Edge Technology that is made from materials that are less conductive than traditional aluminum spacers, reducing heat transfer at the edges and improving overall energy efficiency.
• U-Factor — The U-Factor indicates the rate at which a window conducts non-solar heat flow. Thus, a lower U-Factor indicates better insulation properties. For optimal energy efficiency, look for windows with a U-Factor of 0.30 or lower.
• Visible transmittance (VT) — VT measures how much visible light passes through the window. A higher VT allows more natural light into your home, reducing the need for other light sources in the home. Ideally, your windows should provide a balanced VT, ensuring good natural light without compromising on energy efficiency.
• Air leakage (AL) — AL measures the amount of air that passes through the joints of the window. A lower AL indicates better sealing and insulation, which will help maintain indoor temperatures and reduce your overall energy costs.

Having some knowledge of specific energy efficiency features will help you know what to look out for when comparing companies’ window products. In addition, understanding the benefits of each energy-efficient feature may help you better assess which windows will best meet your needs and improve your home's overall performance, comfort, and energy savings.

Verify company credentials

Ensuring that the companies you consider are reputable and qualified is an important step that can protect you from subpar workmanship, while also ensuring that the company adheres to industry standards and regulations. Here are a few specific things to look out for:

• Licensing and insurance — Verify that the company holds the necessary licenses and insurance to protect against potential damages or accidents. This can include general liability insurance and workers' compensation.
• Certifications — Look for certifications from recognized industry organizations like the American Window and Door Institute (AWDI) or the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC). These certifications indicate adherence to industry standards.
• Experience — Consider companies with a solid track record and extensive experience in window replacement. Companies with several years in the business are more likely to deliver reliable service. However, a company’s time in business doesn’t necessarily guarantee quality or service; it may also be beneficial to consider working with a newer company in the industry.

Check warranties and financing options

Window replacement projects can be a significant investment — on average, window replacements may cost anywhere from $500 to $1,500 per window. Thus, it’s important to assess your own budget, while also ensuring that your investment will be protected.

Warranties

Most window replacement companies offer warranties on their products and services, ensuring that your investment is protected; but not all companies offer the same warranties. Thus, when comparing companies and warranty coverage, there are a few things worth looking out for, including the following:

• Coverage scope — Some companies may offer combined material, manufacturing,  and workmanship warranties, while others may offer each as a separate warranty.
• Warranty length — The average length of a warranty in the window replacement industry is 10–20 years, but some companies may offer lifetime warranties. 
• Transferability — Some companies may offer transferable warranties that can be transferred to a new owner if you sell your home. This can be an attractive feature for potential buyers and can add value to your property.
• Conditions and exclusions — In some cases, it can almost be more important to know what isn’t included with your warranty than what is included. Common warranty exclusions include damage from improper use, natural disaster, or unauthorized repairs.

By carefully examining these aspects of window replacement company warranties, you’ll be on the right path to choosing a company that provides solid protection for your investment, ensuring long-term satisfaction and peace of mind.

Financing options

While it’s important to ensure that your window replacement investment is protected, you’ll also want to make sure that you can afford the investment in the first place. When pursuing a home improvement project, you will have the option to pay in cash, but that isn’t always a possibility for all homeowners. For this reason, many window replacement companies offer in-house financing, including loan options with low down payments. It’s important to note, however, that window replacement companies will have specific eligibility requirements for financing, which may exclude some homeowners from qualifying.

It can be easier to finance your window replacement project directly through your chosen company, as that keeps all aspects of your project under one roof. However, you can also pursue other financing options, if needed, through your personal bank, credit union, or another online lender. Some financing options include the following:

• Personal loans
• Home equity loans
• Home equity line of credit (HELOC)
• Government programs and rebates

Comparing all financing options available to you can help you secure the most favorable rates and terms.

Consider customer service

The level of customer service provided by a company can be a crucial factor in your overall satisfaction — good customer service ensures a smooth and pleasant experience from start to finish. While researching window replacement companies, it can be important to make note of your own limited experience with a company while making inquiries about products and/or quotes. How a company treats you, as a potential customer, can be indicative of how they will treat you throughout the entire window replacement process. 

Some specific things you can look out for while researching and comparing companies includes the following:

• Responsiveness — Note how quickly and efficiently they respond to your inquiries. Prompt responses can indicate that a company values customer satisfaction.
• Professionalism — Assess a company’s willingness to answer questions, provide information, and accommodate your needs.
• Follow-up — Check if a company offers follow-up services post-installation, such as inspections or maintenance advice. This can be crucial for ensuring the longevity and performance of your new windows.

Research and gather recommendations

Conducting thorough research and gathering recommendations from trusted sources is crucial for finding a reliable window replacement company. Some sources for gathering information include word of mouth recommendations based on the experiences of friends, family, and neighbors, as well as engaging with online communities, such as social media groups and online forums.

One valuable way to research window replacement company options is to read online reviews. On BestCompany.com there are currently upwards of 1,600 window replacement company reviews from real customers. Based on these customer reviews, the top three recommended window replacement companies include the following:

• Milgard
• Renewal by Andersen
• MI Windows and Doors

Milgard

Milgard provides high-quality window replacement and installation services. But the company is most well-known for its exceptional customer service: Milgard was the winner of the Best of Houzz Design award for the most popular company from 2014 to 2018.

Milgard reviews are primarily positive — 91 percent of reviews are 4 or 5 stars. Satisfied Milgard customers frequently highlight the following from their experience with the company:

• High-quality windows
• Exceptional window value
• Prompt and professional customer service

Renewal by Andersen

Renewal by Andersen is one of the largest window replacement companies in the country. The company focuses on offering energy efficient and sustainable window products — all Renewal products are made from sustainable and recycled materials.

On BestCompany.com, 82 percent of Renewal by Andersen reviews are 4 or 5 stars. Satisfied Renewal by Andersen customers frequently mention the following about their experience with the company:

• Fast window installations
• High-quality windows (customization options are available)
• Kind sales reps that aren’t overly pushy

MI Windows and Doors

MI Windows and Doors is a long-standing player in the window replacement industry and has become one of the nation’s leading suppliers of vinyl and aluminum windows.

MI Windows and Doors reviews on BestCompany.com are mixed, but 79 percent of reviews are 4 or 5 stars. Satisfied MI Windows and Doors customers frequently highlight the following about their experience with the company:

• Energy-efficient windows that have helped lower utility bill costs
• Responsive and professional customer service
• Quicky and easy warranty claim process

The final word

Choosing the right window replacement company requires careful consideration of your needs, diligent research, and thorough evaluation of potential companies. 

By following the steps provided, you may feel more confident while researching and comparing window replacement companies. And this confidence might be the catalyst to helping you select a reliable, experienced, and customer-focused company that will provide high-quality windows and professional installation, enhancing the comfort and value of your home for years to come.