Choosing the best replacement windows can be challenging for homeowners. There are many brands to choose from, and each brand has its own product lines. What are the best window brands for homes, or are all windows the same?
Some window brands are certainly better than others in some respects. But more expensive doesn’t always translate to a better window. You should avoid installing the cheapest window you can find, but you also don’t want to pay for features you don’t need.
In this guide, we’ll take a detailed look at the top window brands and compare them across key factors like service, quality, and price. You’ll also learn what you should look for in window replacement options beyond brand name.
What Company Makes the Best Home Windows?
In truth, there isn’t any one best choice for new windows. The best replacement window for your home depends on your budget and your specific needs.
That said, there are a few brands that stand out as the most popular among homeowners. Pella windows are hard to beat in several categories:
- Variety of options for style, size, and material
- Quality and durability
- Added features
- Widespread availability
The main drawback with Pella windows is that their reputation for quality also comes with a higher price point than some other options. If sticking to a tight budget is one of your bigger concerns, there are budget conscious homeowners who prefer vinyl or fiberglass options from other brands. However, Pella is far from your most expensive option.
Read this full guide about How Do I Find a Good Window Installer to better understand what to look for, what to avoid, and how to choose with confidence.
Let’s compare Pella windows with other brands.
Which Is Better: Pella or Andersen Windows?
One of Pella’s biggest competitors is Andersen. While Pella windows can be pricier than some brands, Andersen windows often cost even more. So what makes them different, and are they worth the extra price?
Here’s what we like about Andersen windows:
- Transferable lifetime warranty
- Durable proprietary composite frames
Pella offers a limited lifetime warranty as well, but they aren’t transferable. Andersen may be worth the extra cost if you want a more durable window and comprehensive warranty coverage. For example, homeowners in areas with extreme weather patterns that require storm doors may need more coverage.
On the other hand, Pella has several advantages over Andersen that could make it a better option. You should choose Pella over Andersen for:
- Nationwide product availability
- More style and size options
- More reliable energy efficiency
- Lower pricing
Is Window World Better Than Pella?
Window World is a budget brand that focuses on affordability. They offer a wide range of colors and have widespread availability. Their products are less expensive than Pella’s, but that also means they lose out to Pella in several crucial ways:
- Frame materials: Pella offers vinyl, wood, and fiberglass, while all Window World frames are vinyl
- Durability: Pella windows are made of higher-quality materials that last longer
- Service: Pella is a large company that partners with local contractors for more personalized service
What Are the Most Popular Window Brands?
We’ve already covered some of the top window brands, but there are several others worth considering. Some of the most popular replacement window brands include:
- Pella
- Andersen
- Window World
- Burris
- Milgard Windows
- WinDor Systems
- Marvin Windows
- Alside
- Jeld-Wen
What Brands Does Woodruff Windows Carry?
At Woodruff Windows, we’re proud to offer a variety of options for window replacements. Our customers can choose from
- Burris: We install the Burris Tectview AC, Tectview EX, Tectview CA, and Tectview PD lines
- Pella: Our Pella windows come in vinyl, wood, and fiberglass, using their 250, Impervia, and Lifestyle series windows
- NT Windows: Choose between NT’s Executive, Presidential, and Twinsulator lines
- Elevate: Durable vinyl windows built to hold up to weather and wear
- Alside: Vinyl replacement windows offering a variety of energy-efficient glass options
How Do Vinyl Windows Compare to Fiberglass Windows?
Vinyl and fiberglass are the two most comparable frame materials. They are both durable, energy-efficient choices.
Vinyl windows are a more budget-friendly option and require less maintenance. However, vinyl frames offer fewer design options and don’t insulate quite as well as fiberglass.
Fiberglass windows are better insulators, making them more energy-efficient. They are also more warp and impact-resistant. Over time, they can become discolored from sun exposure if not properly maintained.
In general, fiberglass windows perform better, but they are a bigger upfront investment.
Which Window Material Is Best for Texas Homes?
In addition to fiberglass and vinyl, wood frames can be made from:
- Aluminum: Corrosion-resistant and durable, but more expensive and less energy-efficient
- Wood: Premium natural wood look and feel, but requires a lot of maintenance to keep looking new
- Composite: Durable and energy efficient, replicating the look of wood, but considered a premium material — the most expensive option
If you can afford it, composite window frames are one of the most energy-efficient and durable choices for Texas homeowners. However, you should plan to pay a premium for quality and professional window installation costs.
For homeowners on a budget, fiberglass or vinyl are also good choices to keep the heat out. Many prefer the aesthetic of wood, but they require regular refinishing and more frequent maintenance.
Aluminum is usually not the best choice for Texas homes since it conducts heat so well.
What Key Factors Matter Beyond the Brand Name?
When choosing a window for your home, you should look at more than just the brand name. These are some of the key factors to keep in mind to choose the best window for your home:
Window Styles
Not all window brands offer every style. If you have a particular type of window in mind, that can help you eliminate a few options. Window styles include:
- Single-hung windows: The most common window style, using one operable sash that slides up and down
- Double-hung windows: Like a single-hung window, but both sashes are operable to open at the top and/or bottom
- Sliding windows: Sashes slide side to side on a track
- Casement windows: Open outward like a door
- Awning windows: Casement windows that swing open from the bottom to form a custom awning shape
- Picture windows: Large fixed windows that don’t open
- Bay windows: Three large panels forming a bay area that projects from the side of the house
- Bow windows: A type of bay window with more than three panels for a more curved shape
- Pass through windows: Fold open to create a complete opening for passing items into the adjoining space
Energy Efficiency
Windows can include several features that can improve your home’s energy savings each year. Look for features like:
- Low-E glass coatings: Low emissivity or low-E coatings keep UV rays out while letting natural light into your home
- Insulated frames: Prevent thermal transfer around the edges of the glass
- Double or triple pane glass: Use multiple panes separated by an insulating layer of argon gas
- Performance ratings: Look for ENERGY STAR or NFRC labels on your window that detail its energy efficiency
Warranty
High-quality windows often include warranty coverage for manufacturing defects. If there is an issue with your window that stems from how it was built, the manufacturer will replace it at no cost to you. Be sure to compare warranties and read through the policy to determine what might void a warranty.
It’s important to note that manufacturer warranties don’t usually cover issues with the installation. Check with your installer to find out if they back their work with a warranty.
Why Does Window Installation Matter as Much as the Brand?
Whether you choose a premium or budget-friendly window brand, it’s essential to have a qualified professional perform the installation. A professional installer will be able to work with a stock window, but a high-end window will never make up for a low-quality installation job.
Read the full article about Is It Worth Replacing 20 Year Old Windows to see if upgrading your windows is the right move.
A poor installation can lead to reduced energy efficiency, letting in drafts and leaking air. In some cases, your window may even fail prematurely due to shoddy workmanship. Some manufacturers also won’t honor warranties for damage resulting from an incorrect installation technique.
One of the best ways to ensure a good install is to hire a window specialist rather than a general home improvement contractor. Be wary of contractors who claim to “do it all.”
Get Started on Your Window Replacement Today
With all the different window brands to choose from, there’s a solution that’s perfect for your home. For McKinney, TX homeowners, however, there’s only one choice for window installation: Woodruff Windows. We’re a local, family-owned window company with over 40 years of experience serving Texas families.
We carry multiple window brands, and we specialize in window and door replacement. Contact us today for a free consultation. Get started choosing the right brand to replace your old windows!