Best Window Companies: Top Picks for Quality, Durability, and Energy Efficiency

When it's time to replace or install new windows in your home, choosing the right company is crucial. The best window companies offer a combination of top-quality materials, expert craftsmanship, and energy-efficient designs. With so many window manufacturers and installers on the market, narrowing down the best options can be a daunting task.

1. Andersen Windows

Andersen is one of the most well-known window brands, and for good reason. Founded in 1903, the company has built a stellar reputation for producing durable and energy-efficient windows. Andersen offers a wide variety of window styles, including double-hung, casement, and sliding windows, all crafted from materials like wood, vinyl, and composite.

What sets Andersen apart is its customization options and the use of innovative materials like Fibrex®, a composite that combines wood and vinyl to offer the best of both worlds—durability and low maintenance. They also have a strong warranty program, typically offering 20-year warranties on glass and 10 years on non-glass components.

2. Pella Windows

Pella is another long-established window company, known for its high-quality products and cutting-edge designs. Established in 1925, Pella offers windows in a range of styles and materials, including wood, vinyl, and fiberglass. Their wood windows are especially well-regarded, with elegant finishes that add a luxurious feel to any home.

One of Pella's standout features is its energy-efficient technology, such as the Low-E glass coating, which helps in reducing heating and cooling costs. Pella’s patented between-the-glass blinds and shades are another unique feature that adds convenience and enhances the aesthetic appeal of their windows. Pella windows are designed to meet Energy Star standards, making them a great choice for homeowners looking to reduce their energy bills.

3. Milgard Windows

Milgard has earned a reputation for offering a wide range of affordable, high-quality windows. The company, founded in 1958, is known for its vinyl, fiberglass, and aluminum window lines. Milgard’s vinyl windows, in particular, stand out for their affordability and longevity, as vinyl is naturally resistant to moisture and does not require painting or finishing.

Milgard offers a full lifetime warranty on its products, which covers both the materials and labor, a rare offering in the industry. This warranty reflects the company's confidence in its products' durability. Moreover, Milgard windows are known for their energy efficiency, with many models being Energy Star certified.

4. Simonton Windows

Simonton is a popular choice for homeowners looking for energy-efficient vinyl windows. Founded in 1946, the company focuses primarily on vinyl windows, known for their durability and low maintenance. Simonton’s windows come in a variety of styles, such as bay, bow, double-hung, and casement windows.

Simonton has a strong emphasis on energy efficiency, with many of their products meeting Energy Star standards. They offer features like Low-E glass, argon gas insulation, and double or triple-pane options, all designed to enhance thermal efficiency and lower energy costs. Simonton also provides a solid double-lifetime warranty, which covers the original purchaser and subsequent owners, adding to its appeal.

5. Marvin Windows

Marvin is a premium window manufacturer known for its high-quality craftsmanship and customizable options. The company, established in 1912, offers a broad range of window styles, including awning, bay, and bow windows, as well as unique custom shapes to fit any architectural design.

Marvin’s Integrity and Infinity product lines are particularly well-regarded, using Ultrex® fiberglass, a durable material that resists warping and requires minimal upkeep. Marvin windows also meet or exceed Energy Star standards, making them a great choice for homeowners interested in energy efficiency.

The company's commitment to sustainability and innovation is another factor that sets Marvin apart. They use eco-friendly practices in manufacturing and provide windows designed to improve energy efficiency, which helps in reducing the carbon footprint of homes.

6. Window World

Window World is known for its affordability and widespread availability, with franchises located across the United States. Founded in 1995, Window World offers vinyl windows that are both budget-friendly and energy-efficient. Although the company focuses on vinyl windows, they also offer sliding, casement, and bay window options, giving homeowners a variety of choices.

Window World’s windows are Energy Star certified and come with features like Low-E glass and argon gas-filled panes. While the company may not offer as many high-end options as some competitors, their competitive pricing and lifetime warranty make them a popular choice for budget-conscious homeowners.

Conclusion

Selecting the best window company depends on your specific needs, including budget, desired materials, energy efficiency, and warranty preferences. Andersen and Pella are excellent choices for premium, customizable windows, while Milgard and Simonton provide more affordable, energy-efficient options without sacrificing quality. For those looking for budget-friendly solutions, Window World offers solid performance at a lower price point.

Regardless of the brand you choose, investing in high-quality windows can greatly enhance your home’s comfort, energy efficiency, and resale value. Make sure to thoroughly research each company's offerings, read customer reviews, and consult with professionals before making your final decision.