Affordable Window Replacement | 2024 Guide (2024)

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As windows age, you’re likely to experience drafts, deterioration, and poor energy performance. Purchasing new windows is an expensive investment, but low-performance windows are already costing you money. The goal is to find the most affordable window option without sacrificing quality.

We evaluated the market’s top window brands to see which offers the best products and services at the most economical pricing. We researched and compared companies’ product selection and performance, energy efficiency, warranty coverage, services, customer support, and more to determine return on investment.

Our research points to Castle, Champion, and Milgard at the top of the list for best window replacement, each with standout features that won’t break the bank. See which other affordable window companies we chose and how to save money on windows in our guide.

Top Brands for Affordable Window Replacement

The brands that made our top-five list all scored at least four out of five stars when tested against our methodology. Our methodology evaluates each brand’s product selection and performance, warranty coverage, customer reviews, Better Business Bureau (BBB) rating, and more. These brands met our quality standards while still offering affordable prices for the industry.

• Best Warranty: Castle Windows
• Best Sunrooms: Champion Windows
• Best Specialty Windows: Milgard Windows
• Best for Coastal Homes: Marvin Windows
• Best Eco-Friendly Windows: Pella

Side-By-Side Comparison: Pricing of Affordable Window Brands

Though all brands earned at least four stars, some scored better than others. See how average price compares to our rating below.

Note: Price is per window

Best Affordable Window Brands of 2024

The typical window replacement cost is between $671 and $1,387 per window, including materials and labor. The brands on our list have several options within or even under this average amount. We’ve listed below what stands out to us about each of our recommended brands, both the benefits and drawbacks, as well as each’s least expensive window line and offered window styles.

Additional Window Brands to Consider

These brands didn’t make our list, but we still think they’re worth mentioning in case they do meet what you’re looking for.

Simonton has some of the most affordable window pricing in the industry, but we didn’t include it in our top recommendations due to its mostly negative customer reviews online. The nature of these reviews include issues such as installation delays and poor customer service experiences. Though, not every customer will have these challenges, and you may find the brand’s low pricing worth looking into it.

Renewal by Andersen didn’t make our list due to its average cost. Renewal is a popular and well-respected brand known for its high-quality, energy-efficient windows, but its pricing is well above what we consider to be budget-friendly.

In-Depth Comparison of Window Materials

Each material type varies in price, durability, required maintenance, and customization options. Aluminum and vinyl frames are the most cost-effective. Wood and fiberglass windows are typically the most costly.

Below is a breakdown of each window material and its average cost, benefits, and drawbacks.

Overall, the most affordable options for windows are usually vinyl and aluminum. Vinyl is the more energy-efficient option, giving you a better long-term return. You should also consider more simplistic window styles, such as single- or double-hung, if you are looking to make your project more cost-effective.

How to Make Your Windows Energy-Efficient

According to the U.S. Department of Energy, most homes lose about 30% of heat through their windows. The department also reports that the average American household spends an extra $200 to $400 per year on energy costs due to drafty, inefficient windows. While upgrading your windows is a large investment, switching to better-performing ones will reduce your electric bills, make your home more comfortable year-round, and help prevent your furniture, floors, and walls from fading.

Below are some of the most impactful energy features to look for to ensure the windows you select are energy-efficient.

Argon Gas Filling

Argon gas adds insulation between window panes, making your home more comfortable and reducing energy bills. The gas filling also prevents frost from building up on the windows’ corners during winter, which can lead to a need for frequent maintenance and repairs. All brands on our list use gas filling in their window construction, as do most reputable companies.

ENERGY STAR Certification

ENERGY STAR-certified windows meet energy efficiency standards set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). “[Energy Star] carries the reputation of being the best on the market and will put a few dollars back in your pocket with your heating and cooling bills,” says Collin Sullivan, Director of Production for Renewal by Andersen’s Carolinas division.

Having the ENERGY STAR label means the window has undergone rigorous independent testing and received certification, signifying its strong energy performance. All brands on our list sell ENERGY STAR-certified windows.

Low-Emissivity Glass Coating

Low-emissivity (low-e) glass has a protective coating to prevent heat transfer. Essentially, this coating keeps heat from penetrating the glass’s exterior in the summer and interior in the winter. This means your home will remain comfortable, and your heating and air conditioning systems will work more effectively, saving you money on energy bills.

Multipane Glass

Double- and triple-pane windows have multiple glass layers to reduce outdoor noise and UV rays entering your home. Choosing a window with multiple panes keeps your home more comfortable and prevents fading of your furniture and walls.

How Can I Get Discounts on Windows?

There are a few ways to save money on replacement windows. For starters, choose the window material that makes the most sense for your home and climate. Remember, aluminum and vinyl are most affordable. Also keep in mind that your chosen window style can dramatically alter the price. Go with a standard-size single- or double-hung window to avoid higher prices.

You can also follow these tips to trim your total cost:

• Order in bulk: Many manufacturers offer a lower cost per window when you order in bulk.
• Shop during the offseason: Window companies are busiest during spring and fall. Use this to your advantage and shop for windows during the offseason when you may find deals.
• Take advantage of incentives and rebates: Many state and local governments offer energy efficiency incentives. Your utility company may as well. Read the Database of State Incentives for Renewables and Efficiency (DSIRE) for your state’s up-to-date listing of energy efficiency incentives.

Is It More Affordable to Replace My Own Windows?

Do-it-yourself installation can be another way to save money if you’re experienced and have the right equipment. But if done incorrectly, it may end up costing you more in the end. Trying to install a window without a professional could result in improper seals, poor insulation, or other damage. You could end up with air leakage that drives up your energy bill or moisture damage that’s expensive to eradicate.

If you purchased your windows directly from the manufacturer, it should provide a list of dealers and installers within its network that you can hire. These professionals are trained to install the company’s windows, ensuring the replacement is completed properly. If you buy windows from a home improvement chain, the store may offer installation services. However, since these stores sell several window brands, the installers may not have specialty training for the specific brand you select. You can also look for a local installer certified for your chosen brand.

When to Replace vs. Repair Windows

A major way to save money on windows is knowing when you need a repair rather than a full window replacement. Use our tips below to decide if you need one versus the other.

Signs You Need a Window Repair

Some repairs may still be costly, but not as costly as replacement. You likely only need repair if you have one of the following issues:

• Broken glass
• Drip cap damage
• Minor water leakage/damage
• Slow or stuck sashes
• Poor window casing
• Worn caulking

In these cases, you likely just need an individual window component repaired or replaced, not the entire window. This can save you hundreds or even thousands of dollars.

Signs You Need a Window Replacement

It’s worth investing in full window replacement if you have one of these issues:

• Drafts
• Excessive damage
• Fogginess
• High energy bills
• Major water leakage/damage
• Structural issues

These problems point to larger concerns with the window’s sealing or construction integrity and should be assessed by a licensed window professional. If left unresolved, these issues can quickly get worse, becoming a costlier inconvenience than paying for a replacement.

Window Replacement Financing Options

Many window manufacturers and installers offer financing options or partner with a financing company to make window replacement more affordable. Sullivan recommends looking for companies offering financing plans and that back their products with 20- to 30-year warranties.

Here are the most common financing options for window replacement. Be aware that all options are subject to credit approval.

How to Find a Local Window Installer Near You

Once you’ve selected your replacement windows, you’ll need to hire a reputable window installer to complete the job.

Try one of these methods to find the best installer for your project:

• Friends, family, and neighbors: Reach out to anyone you know who has completed a recent windows replacement to inquire about their experience. Ask questions about the project time line, interactions with the company, and any issues that may have occurred since the installation.
• Home retailer installations: If you decide to buy windows through a major retailer such as Home Depot or Lowe’s, you can use its installation program. These installers are qualified to complete the installation but may not be certified to handle your specific products. Ask for details about their qualifications and review the terms for any additional warranties for their materials and labor.
• Windows manufacturer recommendations: Your manufacturer will typically recommend an installer certified for its products. Window companies usually have a network of contractors and installers that meet this requirement. Review these suggestions and read customer reviews for each one that you consider.

For any window professional, 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. Don’t work with any installer who won’t answer your questions directly, gives vague service terms, or doesn’t respond promptly.

To find the best window prices, we recommend comparing quotes from at least three window companies near you and considering different style options and warranties. Use the tool below to find reputable window companies in your area.

Our Recommendation

Remember, you don’t want to sacrifice quality when trying to lower the cost of your replacement windows. This will only cost you in the long run in higher electric bills and needed repairs.

The brands on our list offer both quality and affordability. We recommend brands Castle and Champion if you’re looking for affordable windows. These companies have the lowest pricing on our list while still being well-rated for their performance and customer service. Go with Castle if you want full lifetime warranty coverage. Champion is a good choice if you plan to finance, since it has a 0% financing option.

How We Chose the Top Window Brands

We researched and analyzed dozens of window manufacturers. We then crafted a rating system based on each brand’s standard and energy-efficient product offerings.

We spoke directly to representatives at each company to learn how the installation process works and determine how each brand personalizes its 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.

Finally, we assessed 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.