Buyer’s guide to best replacement windows

Did you know that you can replace drafty old windows in your home without major construction? Advancements in replacement window technology have made it easier and more affordable to update those aging panes.

The cost to replace a home’s windows is “easily 30% less than [using] new-construction windows,” according to Michael Cavanna, CEO of Brothers Home Improvement in San Jose, CA. Installation is easier because “you don’t have to tear out part of the wall” to slip in a replacement window.

Although replacement windows are still a major investment, they yield big payoffs for homeowners. In addition to increased comfort, quiet, security, and curb appeal, professionally installed windows can shave up to 12% off your monthly heating bill. Homeowners have also recouped up to 73% of the project cost upon resale, according to 2020 data from Remodeling magazine. 

There are two types of residential windows: New construction and replacement windows. Understanding how each type is used highlights the advantages of replacement windows. 

Windows designed for new construction or remodels are made in a range of standard sizes and have a  larger glass area than replacement windows. When walls are built or remodeled, the openings are made to fit these stock window sizes.

Replacing an existing window with a new-construction window is not typically recommended. It requires additional construction: cutting into siding and interior wall surface, installing the window from outside, then repairing the walls.

This takes a lot of time, makes a big mess, and is expensive. On a three-bedroom house, replacing existing windows with new-construction models can easily cost $20,000 or more. It can also take two or three weeks, depending upon the complexity of the job and size of crew. 

Replacement retrofit windows, on the other hand, are quick and easy to install. They mount in existing window frames without additional construction. And, they can be installed from inside the room, eliminating the need for ladders or scaffolding. The replacement window attaches to the existing frame with fasteners that run through the new window frame.

An installer will measure your existing windows and order replacements to fit the old frames. As long as the old frame is in good condition, installers can leave it in place and slip in the replacement window in minutes.

If the old window frame is rotted or in poor condition, however, it will need to be rebuilt. This could also signal more rot in the structure around the window. 

Slightly smaller glass is the trade-off for replacement windows. That’s because replacing a window involves “encapsulating the old window frame, so you lose a little glass,” explains Brothers Home Improvement’s Cavanna.

When buying replacement windows, the first step is picking window frame and sash material. Window manufacturers use five basic materials to make replacement window sash and frames: vinyl, wood, composite, fiberglass, and aluminum. 

Polyvinyl chloride (PVC) windows are among the least expensive. They’re available from many manufacturers including local fabricators. The sash (the window part that holds the glass) and frame are made of vinyl, which is weather-resistant, easy to clean, and never needs painting. Milgard, Andersen, Pella, and other major manufacturers make vinyl windows. 

Once only available in white (the most popular color), vinyl replacement windows now come in beige and brown. Some even have a wood-grain finish on the interior. 

Wood replacement windows are typically made of clear pine. The most durable types have an exterior covering, called “cladding,” which is made of aluminum or vinyl. This creates a high-quality, low-maintenance window that’s rot-resistant and paint-free outside. However, you can paint or stain the natural wood finish inside to match a room’s décor. Pella and Andersen are top-rated wood-clad brands. 

Composite windows are made from a vinyl-and-wood mashup that’s known for durability, weather resistance and a wood-window look. Andersen and Marvin also make top-rated composite windows (which go by Fibrex and other brand names). They typically come with a limited 10-year warranty. 

Polyester resin mixed with fine glass strands creates a strong, resilient fiberglass replacement window that won’t crack, warp, or rot. Fiberglass windows are also less likely to leak air between the glass panels. Marvin, Milgard, Pella, and Andersen make high-quality fiberglass windows.

Aluminum frames are durable, lightweight, and strong. Because of its strength, aluminum is a good choice for very large picture windows. 

Aluminum readily conducts heat, so quality aluminum windows should have cores of foam insulation and a “thermal break”—a separation between the interior and exterior surfaces—to reduce heat loss.  

Here’s a list of worthwhile features to look for in quality windows:

Double-glazed windows have double panes separated by a space filled with air or another inert gas. The space enhances the window’s energy efficiency by slowing the transfer of heat through the glass. Argon gas is a better insulator than air.  

Triple glazing has three panes of glass and two air- or gas-filled spaces. Triple-pane glass windows are costly and very heavy, but offer superior energy savings and noise reduction. In most cases, the high cost is not offset by the energy savings.

Low-emissivity (Low-E) glass has a coating that admits sunlight but reduces solar heat gain, to keep your home cooler on hot days. On cold days, Low-E coating stops room heat from escaping. It also partially blocks ultraviolet light, which can protect carpets and upholstery from fading.

When shopping for double-hung replacement windows, be sure that the sashes tilt in, so you can easily clean both sides of the glass from inside the room. If you’re replacing casement windows, confirm that the new replacements crank open far enough so you can reach between the side jamb and sash to clean outside-facing glass.

The U-value or U-factor of the window, listed in a sticker on the glass, indicates the rate at which heat flows through the window and frame. It’s a good way to evaluate the overall energy efficiency of a window. The lower the U-value, the better the window’s insulating capabilities.

Any window with an Energy Star label has met or exceeded government energy-saving standards. This rating can cut your monthly heating and cooling bills up to 12%. 

Investigate federal tax credits, which currently total 10% of the cost of Energy Star windows up to a maximum of $200. (Note: These credits change over time.) Also, ask your local utility company about rebates and incentives that help defray the cost of new energy-efficient windows. The Dsire database lists state incentives.

Every retail window company sells replacement windows. Window dealers will come to your home and measure, discuss window options, and provide prices. You can also walk through their showrooms for up-close inspection. Once you’ve chosen a style, the replacement windows will be custom made, often by major manufacturers. 

Replacement units come in most window styles, including double-hung, casement, slider, hopper, and awning, so you’re sure to find one to suit your home. 

There are three ways to buy and install replacement windows: 

If your existing window frames are in good condition, you may only need a sash-replacement kit. These kits are the quickest, most affordable way to replace old drafty double-hung windows. Each includes two insulated-glass window sashes, two sash liners, and metal mounting clips. 

DIY installation takes less than an hour. You can save a lot of money installing the kit yourself, if you have moderate DIY skills and tools. Here’s how:

Easy-installation sash-replacement kits are available from Marvin Windows, Jeld-Wen, Andersen Windows, and Precision Millworks. 

In most cases, you’ll want an experienced window replacement contractor certified in the product line you buy to handle the installation. This is particularly important with custom windows. 

On average, the cost of replacement window ranges from $450–1,000 per window for materials and labor. Labor alone can cost $100–300. Depending on the number, sizes, and types of windows installed, a complete window-replacement job can cost from $7,500–25,000.

Get at least three bids from licensed, experienced contractors. Be sure the bids include:

Once you’ve selected a pro, get window prices, names of replacement window brands to be used, and installation costs in writing. 

Find a window replacement installer near you.

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