The best replacement windows keep out noise and the elements while letting in maximum light. They’re easy to open and clean. And they’re energy-efficient, saving you money on utility bills.
But replacement windows get costly quickly. Even the least costly models will set you back several hundred dollars apiece, plus installation.
So if you’re going to spend that kind of money, make sure you’re buying high-quality windows. Consumer Reports tests wood, vinyl, and composite replacement windows from brands that include American Craftsman, Anderson, Atrium, Jeld-Wen, Marvin, Pella, Simonton, and others. We evaluate each window on its resistance to both wind and rain, which is critical to keeping your home draft-free and dry. Below is some general information about replacement windows, followed by the top-scoring windows we tested in each category.
In this article
- Types of Replacement Windows
- Best Windows: Vinyl Wood Composite
- How CR Tests Replacement Windows
Types of Replacement Windows
There are two main types of replacement windows, and the type to get depends on the condition of your existing window frames and your taste.
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An “insert” or “pocket” replacement window fits into your window frame; there’s no need to remove molding on the inside or trim on the outside. Because it’s essentially a frame within a frame, an insert lets in a bit less light than the original window. Inserts can be bought in stock sizes, but custom inserts offer more style and feature choices as well as a more accurate fit for better energy efficiency.
Full-frame windows, also called new-construction windows, are mass-produced in standard sizes. In an existing house, the contractor removes the frame—as well as outside trim and sometimes siding—and makes any needed changes to the opening before installation. If your window frames aren’t in good condition—or if you want to change the size or shape of the opening—you’ll need this kind.
Most replacement windows, regardless of type, are ordered from a window company or through a contractor. And it’s wise to comparison shop. Ideally, you’ll get a handful of bids, each representing a custom plan tailored to your home. Check our replacement window buying guide to get more details on features and styles, and tips for dealing with an installer.
Best Vinyl Replacement Windows
Vinyl windows make up the largest segment of the replacement window market. They don’t need to be painted or stained, but you’ll probably find fewer options when choosing colors and hardware.
Best Wood Replacement Windows
Most wood window frames are made of solid wood covered on the outside with another material for protection from the elements. They’re generally the most expensive type of window, available with many finish and hardware options.
Best Composite Replacement Windows
Typically made of wood fiber and a thermoplastic resin, composite windows look more like wood than vinyl windows do, and they generally cost less than solid wood windows.
How CR Tests Replacement Windows
For our tests, we order 3x5-foot double-hung windows from a variety of manufacturers. Our previous window testing has shown that most windows stand up to simulated aging; we now focus instead on how well a window can withstand the elements.
After installing each window in a wooden frame, test engineers seal one side and rig a specially made device that simulates wind. They raise the airflow velocity to 25 mph and then 50 mph and measure air leakage with a flow meter. They run this test at 0° F and 70° F to evaluate whether the frames hold up even as materials contract and expand at varied temperatures.
To test rain resistance, we simulate windblown rain by pelting the window with 5 gallons of water per square foot per hour. Windows that earn an excellent rating in this test can withstand simulated winds up to 74 mph, or gale-force winds. The worst windows leaked at about 35 mph.
Another important takeaway: Our tests have found that even within the same brand of replacement windows, not all lines perform the same.
Tobie Stanger
Tobie Stanger is a senior editor at Consumer Reports, where she has been helping readers shop wisely, save money, and avoid scams for more than 30 years. Most recently, her home- and shopping-related beats have included appliance and grocery stores, generators, homeowners and flood insurance, humidifiers, lawn mowers, and luggage—she also covers home improvement products like flooring, roofing, and siding. During off-hours, she works on her own fixer-upper and gets her hands dirty in the garden.
