By Alex Hawkins Updated April 20, 2024
- Top Brands
- Compare Brands
- What to Consider
- Why Choose Vinyl Windows
- How to find an installer
- Our Recommendation
- FAQ
All products and services featured are independently selected by our editors. However, when you buy something through our retail links, we may earn an affiliate commission.
Opting for vinyl windows doesn’t mean sacrificing style. We’ve spent over 100 hours researching the best window brands for vinyl windows. Our favorite options balance affordability, durability, and aesthetics to fit a multitude of styles.
Check out our picks for best vinyl windows below, plus tips on hiring a local installer.
Top Vinyl Window Brands for Your Home
Here are our top picks for the best vinyl windows:
- Best Selection: Andersen
- Best for Sunrooms: Champion Windows
- Best Warranty: Castle Windows
- Best for Wooden Windows: Harvey Windows and Doors
- Best Specialty Windows: Milgard Windows
- Best Eco-Friendly Windows: Pella
- Best Vinyl Windows: Simonton
Compare the Best Vinyl Window Brands of 2024
See the table below to compare our recommended brands for vinyl windows.
| Company | Star Rating | Best For | Price Range | Link |
|---|---|---|---|---|
4.9 Our Rating | Selection | $680-$2,700 | VISIT SITE | |
4.6 Our Rating | Sunrooms | $400-$850 | VISIT SITE | |
4.0 Our Rating | Warranty | $300-$500 | VISIT SITE | |
4.2 Our Rating | Wooden Windows | $500-$1,350 | VISIT SITE | |
4.2 Our Rating | Specialty Windows | $200-$600 | VISIT SITE | |
4.2 Our Rating | Eco-Friendly Windows | $450-$2,000 | VISIT SITE | |
3.7 Our Rating | Vinyl Windows | $200–$1,200 | VISIT SITE |
Renewal by Andersen Windows
Best Selection
4.9
Our Rating
Tooltip Content
State availability:50
Warranty options:Limited and lifetime limited warranties
Price range:$680–$2,700
Energy-efficientproducts available:Yes
What We Like
Andersenis one of the most respectedwindow manufacturersin the United States. Its subsidiary, Renewal byAndersen, offers customizablevinyl windowswith full-service installation. The company offers 35 different window types and multiple operational styles,color options, and shapes.Andersen’s customizable E-Series caters to uniquewindow installations, including accent windows that complementdouble-hungandcasem*ntoptions. Its 400 Series is a premium option, includingAndersen’s highest-quality glass with vinyl or wood frames.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Includes 20-year warranties for glass and 10 years for non-glass items
- Is available nationwide at big-box retailers such as The Home Depot
- Offers a large selection of vinyl window lines
Cons
- Costs more than some competitors
- Doesn't offer cost information online because prices vary by location
Types of Windows Available
Below areAndersen’s options for custom-built windows and doors:
Windows
- Awning windows
- Bay windows
- Bow windows
- Casem*nt windows
- Double-hung windows
- Gliding windows
- Pass-through windows
- Picture windows
- Specialty windows
Doors
- Entry doors
- Hinged French patio doors
- Screen doors
- Sliding doors
- Storm doors
Champion Windows
Best for Sunrooms
4.6
Our Rating
Tooltip Content
State availability:17*
Warranty options:Limited lifetime warranty
Price range:$400–$850
Energy-efficientproducts available:Yes
What We Like
Champion Windows was founded in 1953 to manufacture cost-friendly aluminum storm windows, storm doors,awnings, and screen rooms. The company now offers a wide selection ofwindow lines. Itsvinyl window line, ColorBond, has various exteriorcolor optionsdesigned to adhere to vinyl. These windows also use heat-reflective and impact-resistant technology that prevents fading, warping, and energy loss.Champion includes eco-friendly,Energy Star-certified Comfort 365 Window Glass on its window offerings. This glass has a specializedlow-emissivity (low-e) coating and insulatingargongas that block roughly 94% of harmful ultraviolet (UV) rays, ensuring your home stays cool during summer and warm in winter.
*Available in Alabama, Colorado, Georgia, Idaho, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Massachusetts, Michigan, New Mexico, North Carolina, Ohio, South Carolina, Tennessee, Texas, and Wisconsin.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Provides Energy Star-certified vinyl windows
- Offers additional sunroom and patio services with vinyl options
- Offers in-house installation and customization
Cons
- Has limited service areas
- Provides limited pricing information online, as quotes vary by location
Types of Windows Available
Below are Champion’s window, sunroom, patio, and door options:
Windows
- Awning windows
- Basem*nt Hoppers
- Bay windows
- Bow windows
- Casem*nt windows
- Double-hung windows
- Gliding windows
- Pass-through windows
- Picture windows
- Specialty windows
Doors
- Entry doors
- Hinged French patio doors
- Screen doors
- Sliding doors
- Storm doors
Castle Windows
Best Warranty
4
Our Rating
Tooltip Content
State availability:11*
Warranty options:Lifetime warranty
Price range:$300–$500
Energy-efficientproducts available:Yes
What We Like
Castle Windows has manufactured windows since 1997. The company has served over one millionhomeownersand built a reputation forhigh-quality vinyl windows, exterior doors, roofing, and siding services.The company provides design-friendly double-hung and basem*nthopperwindows with double weather-stripping, insulated glass, and a maintenance-free vinyl frame. Its windows also have a tilt-sash—or the part of the window that opens—for easy cleaning. Castle offers a 24/7 customer support line and includes a transferable lifetimewarranty. This warranty covers all window parts, including glass, screens, and other components.
*Available in Connecticut, Indiana, Maryland, Michigan, New Jersey, New York, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Includes a robust lifetime warranty for vinyl windows
- Offers made-to-order vinyl windows for a variety of window types
- Includes double weather stripping and insulated glass with its virgin vinyl products
Cons
- Limited state availability
- No online pricing, as price varies by location
Types of Windows Available
Here is Castle Windows’ door and window selection:
Windows
- Awning windows
- Basem*nt Hoppers
- Bay windows
- Bow windows
- Casem*nt windows
- Double-hung windows
- Deadlite, specialty, and transom windows
- Garden Windows
- Patio Sliders
- Slider windows
Doors
- Exterior doors
Harvey Windows
Best for Wooden Windows
4.2
Our Rating
Tooltip Content
State availability:16*
Warranty options:10-year and lifetime warranties
Price range:$500–$1,350
Energy-efficientproducts available:Yes
What We Like
A top Northeastern brand,HarveyWindows and Doors offers a comprehensive and customizablevinyl window line. Its Classic Vinyl collection comes with five BetterGrain interior finishes, which mimic the look of naturalwood windows.You can pair thesepremium vinyl windowswithHarvey’s UV Tough Coat paint in black or bronze. This coat is seven times stronger than industry-standard water-based paints, ensuring your windows will look great longer.Harveyalso offers a diverse range ofcolor optionsfor itsvinyl windows, such as cranberry, forest green, and wedgewood. The company includes a lifetime warranty.
*Available in Connecticut, Delaware, Illinois, Maine, Maryland, Massachusetts, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New York, North Carolina, Ohio, Pennsylvania, Rhode Island, Vermont, Virginia, and West Virginia.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Allows you to customize vinyl windows with hardware finishes, grid styles, and glass options
- Offers lifetime warranty
- Uses UV Tough Coat paint
Cons
- Limited state availability
- Doesn’t include prices online
Types of Windows Available
Here areHarvey’s window and door options:
Windows
- Awning windows
- Basem*nt Hoppers
- Bay windows
- Bow windows
- Casem*nt windows
- Custom shaped windows
- Double-hung windows
- Garden windows
- Gliding windows
- Patio Sliders
- Slider windows
- Hoppers
- Picture windows
- Single-hung windows
- Rolling windows
Doors
- Entry doors
- Gliding patio doors
- Majesty hinged patio doors
Milgard Windows
Best Specialty Windows
4.2
Our Rating
Tooltip Content
State availability:16*
Warranty options:Full andlimited lifetime warranties
Price range:$200–$600
Energy-efficientproducts available:Yes
What We Like
Manywindow companiesrely on third-party providers to produce their glass and hardware components, butMilgard Windowsmanufactures everything in-house. This means you receive reliable customer service and lifetime warranty options for the company’svinyl window lines.Milgard’s V300 Trinsic Series is an excellent option forvinyl windowswith a modern, minimalist design. The V250 Style Line Series offersvinyl windowswith a slimmer frame, allowing more natural light to fill your space and make your home feel more expansive. Milgard also offers an excellent selection of specialty windows it can make with vinyl frames, including skylights.
*Available in Alaska, Arizona, California, Colorado, Hawaii, Idaho, Kansas, Missouri, Montana, Nevada, New Mexico, Oklahoma, Oregon, Texas, Utah, and Washington.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Manufactures its glass and vinyl components in-house
- Offers SmartTouch Hardware for easy locking and unlocking
- Uses titanium dioxide to make its vinyl more heat- and weather-resistant
Cons
- Limited state availability
- No online pricing information
Types of Windows Available
Milgard’s door and window offerings are as follows:
Windows
- Awning windows
- Bay windows
- Bi-fold glass walls
- Bow windows
- Casem*nt windows
- Double-hung windows
- Garden window
- Horizontal sliding windows
- Picture windows
- Pocket glass walls
- Radius windows
- Single-hung windows
- Stacking glass walls
Doors
- French-style sliding doors
- In-swing French doors
- Out-swing French doors
- Sliding patio doors
Pella Windows
Best Eco-Friendly Windows
4.2
Our Rating
Tooltip Content
State availability:50
Warranty options:Limited warranties
Price range:$450–$2,000
Energy-efficientproducts available:Yes
What We Like
Pellais one of the largestwindow manufacturersin the United States and can be found at TheHome DepotandLowe’slocations. The company is notable for itsenergy-efficient windowsand efforts in green technology. MostPella windowsand doors meetEnergy Starperformance guidelines and include a low-ecoating. The Environmental Protection Agency even recognizedPellafor its efforts in pollution prevention with anEnergy StarAwardin 2009. Pella’s Encompass line includeshigh-qualitystandardvinyl windows. Its 250 Series offers moredurableand stylish vinyl options. This series supplies weather-stripping, insulating gas, and optional easy-to-open hardware components. You can customize yourPellavinyl windowswith almond, fossil, or white color schemes.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Focuses on eco-friendly and energy-efficient windows
- Offers cost-friendly vinyl windows that don’t sacrifice style
- Has nationwide availablity, including at Lowe’s
Cons
- Doesn’t include a lifetime warranty
- Doesn’t provide cost information online
Types of Windows Available
See which door and window optionsPellaoffers below:
Windows
- Awning windows
- Bay windows
- Bi-fold glass walls
- Bow windows
- Casem*nt windows
- Double-hung windows
- Garden window
- Horizontal sliding windows
- Picture windows
- Pocket glass walls
- Radius windows
- Single-hung windows
- Stacking glass walls
Doors
- French-style sliding doors
- In-swing French doors
- Out-swing French doors
- Sliding patio doors
Simonton Windows
3.7
Our Rating
Tooltip Content
State availability:50
Warranty options:Double lifetime and lifetime limited warranty
Price range:$200–$1,200
Energy-efficientproducts available:Yes
What We Like
Simonton offers one of the largest catalogs of customizablevinyl windows. The company specializes in and only works withvinyl windows.Homeownerscan select from five different design options to build customvinyl windowsthat are weather-resistant and aesthetically pleasing. Simonton separates its windows into two collections for East and West Coast customers. The East Coast-exclusive Reflections collection allows you to customize exterior color, internal wood grain laminate, hardware, and grid choices. The West Coast Simonton Madeira series provides traditional windows with wood-like designs and wide frames. Both collections offerenergy-efficientupgrades, including double-pane andtriple-paneoptions withargongas. Simonton provides lifetime and double lifetime limited warranties. However, the coverage varies between models.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Includes lifetime and double lifetime limited warranties
- Includes various Energy Star-certified window and glass options
- Offers a massive selection of vinyl window options
Cons
- Additional upgrades are required for energy-efficient options
- Collection availability varies by region
Types of Windows Available
Simonton offers the followingvinyl windowtypes:
Windows
- Awning windows
- Bay windows
- Bow windows
- Casem*nt windows
- Double-hung windows
- Garden windows
- Geometric windows
- Picture windows
- Single-hung windows
- Slider windows
What to Consider When Choosing Vinyl Windows
There are a lot of options to consider when shopping for vinyl windows. Here are the key things to keep in mind.
Types of Windows
Vinyl windows are versatile and can be created to fit many shapes. Here are some of the most common window styles you’ll encounter during your search.
Awning windows: Awning windows swing open to the outside of your home as if you’re pushing a latch open. The design pushes rainwater away from your home rather than towards it, making them easier to clean and ideal for climates with a lot of rain.
Bay windows: Bay windows use multiple flat windows set into an angled frame that protrudes from your home. This design creates a shelf inside and a beautiful accent outside to increase your curb appeal.
Bow windows: Bow windows use custom curved windows to create a circular area outside your home. They provide expansive views of lawns or gardens and are ideal for breakfast nooks and dining areas.
Casem*nt windows: One of the most popular window types, casem*nt windows swing out to the side or up to open. They tend to be made of solid glass and offer a sleek, minimalist design.
Custom windows: Most window companies offer custom windows, whether you want a window designed to look like a sailboat or one that captures the spirit of nearby mountains.
Double-hung windows: Double-hung windows are among the most common types. They have a lower and upper sash that moves up and down and often feature a tilt-sash for easier cleaning.
Garden windows: These windows are one of the best ways to add character and charm to your home. They’re similar to bay windows in that they protrude from your home. However, they have a small shelf to grow plants and herbs.
Hopper windows: Typically found in basem*nts and bathrooms, hopper windows are ideal for rooms with limited wall space. They’re commonly used for ventilation and open from the top.
Picture windows: Picture windows don’t have visible frames, creating an unobstructed view that makes your interior feel larger. They’re fixed windows that can’t be opened but are often paired with other windows for design and functionality.
Skylights: Skylights act like windows for your roof. They’re an excellent way to add more natural light to a home with limited wall space.
Single-hung windows: Single-hung windows open vertically with a bottom window panel. The lower sash moves up and down, but the upper sash remains stationary.
Sliding windows: Ideal for elongated walls, sliding windows feature two sections usually made from single windows. One of the sections slides horizontally over the other to open or close.
Transom windows: Transom windows are often used as decorative accent windows. They help break up space or add a design focal point. You often find them around doors or above other windows, and they tend to be semicircles, rectangles, or squares.
Window Warranties
Though vinyl windows are known for having long life spans of 20 to 40 years, a warranty adds additional security to your investment. Many window manufacturers offer limited lifetime warranties or labor warranties. Limited lifetime warranties cover the cost of window parts but don’t always cover labor.
The term lifetime often refers to the estimated time the window will maintain its manufactured quality. Low-quality windows may have an estimated lifespan of fewer than five years, while high-quality windows can last more than 15 years. The length of the warranty matches those estimations. However, some manufacturers mean the actual lifetime of the window. These warranties are usually transferable to new homeowners.
Lifetime limited window warranties typically cover the following items:
- Accidental damage to the glass
- Broken or malfunctioning hardware
- Cosmetic defects
- Custom aspects of your design
- Energy-efficient glass
- Errors performed by the installing contractor
- Obstructed vision/issues with the seal
- Window materials
A labor warranty, often called a workmanship warranty, covers installation errors, not manufacturing defects. Labor warranties may require you to pay a service call fee for repair.
Window labor warranties typically cover:
- Glass systems and frames
- Installation and labor
- Locks and hardware
- Pieces, parts, and materials
We recommend selecting a window installer approved by your manufacturer. This makes it easier to receive coverage if a defect occurs, preventing the manufacturer from blaming the installer or vice versa.
Homeowner Reviews
Looking at other homeowners’ reviews of window manufacturers is critical to understanding what it’s like to deal with a company. These are the most important factors to note:
Response time and scheduling: Note how long homeowners said they waited for installation. A company that takes a while to schedule an installation date may not be a dealbreaker if your remodel doesn’t require a fast turnaround. However, if you need a shattered window replaced quickly, you may want to find a company with speedy response times.
Warranties: Customer reviews are also an excellent way to tell if a company honors its warranties or puts misleading language in them. Pay attention to reviews that mention trying to use a warranty for glass repair or a malfunctioning lock to gauge whether or not the window brand stays true to its word.
Workmanship: Observe how homeowners describe the window brand’s installation quality. Avoid brands whose workmanship might include cheap parts or a sloppy design.
Why Should You Choose Vinyl Windows?
You should choose vinyl windows because they are affordable, durable, and have additional structural benefits. The windows use polyvinyl chloride (PVC) as a synthetic base, offering a wood-like finish while remaining lightweight and easy to install.
Vinyl windows are more durable than other window materials, such as wood or aluminum. Vinyl doesn’t fade, peel, or become damaged from extreme climates.
Overall, vinyl windows provide an optimal balance between style and performance that other window types don’t offer.
How to Find a Local Window Installer
There are a few significant steps to finding a reputable window installation company. We’ve listed them below.
Check for Certification
Many window manufacturers recommend finding an installer trained and certified for their products. Using a certified contractor helps you avoid bureaucratic headaches if issues occur. We recommend visiting a local showroom for the brand you’re interested in to connect with local certified installers and double-check for certification from the American Window and Door Institute.
Read Customer Reviews
Google Reviews and the Better Business Bureau (BBB) are two great sites to find reviews. Pay attention to the above criteria, such as scheduling, warranty options, and workmanship.
Pay Attention to Quote Process
A reputable installer should measure each replacement window, explain their installation process, and estimate how long the job will take. You want an installer who will replace each window one at a time rather than removing all the old ones and installing new ones. If an installer seems too quick to start the job or tries to avoid some of your concerns and questions, you may want to look for someone else.
Our Recommendation
Vinyl windows add style and charm, boost energy efficiency, and supply natural sunlight to highlight your home’s interior beauty.
Champion Windows is a well-rounded option for vinyl replacement or new windows. The company offers a completely customized approach and can add its energy-efficient Comfort 365 Window Glass into practically any vinyl window style you want. In addition to its wide selection of windows and tailored installation, Champion is one of the few providers that offers comprehensive sunroom services.
Castle Windows follows a similarly customized process for vinyl windows. However, Andersen is a safe bet for style and durability if Castle and Champion aren’t available in your area.
We recommend getting quotes from at least three window installers to compare services, warranties, and reputation.
Get Estimates From Local Window Installers Near You
Just answer a few questions, and we’ll take care of the rest!
Vinyl Windows FAQ
How much does a vinyl replacement window cost?
Vinyl replacement windows cost an average of $700 but can range from $300 to $1,200. The price range fluctuates based on window material, glass type, window style, and labor costs.
Should I replace all the windows at once?
It’s best to replace all your windows at once if it’s within your budget. An installer can complete the entire job in a couple of days, and you’ll have less paperwork and stress.
How long do vinyl windows last?
Vinyl windows last 20 to 40 years, depending on your climate and sunlight exposure.
Do vinyl windows warp?
The myth is vinyl windows can warp, but this isn’t true. They’re made from PVC, one of the most durable home materials. Vinyl windows don’t warp due to extreme temperature changes or moisture exposure.
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.
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