Compare the Top Rated Window Brands - Best & Most Popular Window Manufacturers

With the wide variety of brands and options available for windows, it can be overwhelming to sort through all the possible options. But it is important to do your research before making any decisions, as poor-quality windows (or even just the wrong setup) can cause problems like improper sealing and increased energy expenses.

Window Quality

As with any other product, you want to make sure the windows you purchase are high-quality and made right. A lot of that quality comes down to picking the right brand, but it is also about picking the right style and features. Different brands will offer different styles and materials so it is important that you choose the setup that works best for you.

Every major brand offers something different from its competitors. Which brand is right for your needs often comes down to the features and styles they offer. Some brands are less expensive, but don’t offer the same array of products or styles that a different, more expensive brand does. The most important things to keep in mind when purchasing new windows are the style you need or want and the quality of the product. It can look great and be the perfect aesthetic for the room, but if it’s poorly made it just won’t matter.

Styles of Windows

There are various sizes and styles of windows available across multiple brands that can fit just about any design. Windows can be found in myriad materials, such as aluminum, fiberglass, wood, and vinyl. Here are some of the types of window you can find:

• Basement windows: These windows must be specially designed and fitted for basement walls. Often, they operate differently than the other windows in the home or building.
• Bay windows: Bay windows project from the house at an angle, offering wide-angle views of the outside.
• Casement windows: These are crank-open windows that are ideal for difficult to reach installations.
• Decorative windows: Also known as picture windows, these windows are usually inoperable (meaning they don't open) and are mainly used for aesthetic purposes, such as letting more light into the room.
• Double-hung windows: The most popular type of residential window, double-hung windows have two sashes that slide up and down independently.
• Storm windows: Designed to block rain, snow, and wind, these windows also enhance the energy efficiency of any existing windows.

Top Rated Window Brands

There are a variety of window brands, each with their own product lines and specifications.

• Andersen: One of the leading brands in the industry, Andersen is known for their durable, high-quality products. With comprehensive warranties and product lines known all across the country, this company has firmly cemented itself as a figurehead of the window industry.
• Harvey: Harvey Windows produces vinyl and wood windows that are known for their quality and style. Their vinyl windows are available in styles designed to more efficiently block out noise, making them a perfect choice for those looking to improve or maintain sound reduction.
• Jeld-Wen: Another leading manufacturer of windows, Jeld-Wen offers windows in both new-construction and multiple-replacement lines that are available in aluminum, clad, vinyl, and wood. Their products are sold through independent dealers and home centers.
• Kolbe: Specializing in aluminum and vinyl clad windows, Kolbe Windows and Doors can customize the products they offer to ensure the best possible fit and style.
• Lincoln: Available in both custom and stock standard sizing options, Lincoln wood windows include argon-filled and low-E glass for the highest possible efficiency. Lincoln windows can be found at various dealers and are available in multiple-replacement and new-construction lines.
• Marvin: With a broad range of options in custom sizes and stock sizes for product lines that include clad, composite construction, and wood windows, Marvin has built a reputation as a leading brand in the window industry. Their windows are premium priced and sold through independent dealers ad home centers.
• Milgard: Milgard offers a variety of windows made from various materials such as aluminum and wood, but are mostly known for their variety of vinyl windows. They also offer the Quiet Line, which is designed for increased noise reduction and meant for noisier areas.
• Pella: Known for their pleasing aesthetics and sturdy construction, Pella offers windows in fiberglass, vinyl, or wood. Their windows are incredibly efficient and available in double or triple pane.
• Simonton: To many, Simonton is a name synonymous with vinyl windows. They offer a variety of styles and glass types, with treatments available to help keep out infrared and UV light in order to maintain temperature.
• Wallside: Wallside is known for their easy to operate vinyl windows with features that offer enhanced insulation and performance. Bay, casement, double-hung, and double-sliding windows are all available through Wallside.
• Window World: With options that are affordable on even the most bare of budgets all the way up to high-end, premium products, Window World has whatever you need no matter the situation. And, unlike many other manufacturers, they provide installation services that can be purchased directly with many of their windows, making the entire process that much easier.

Important Things to Consider when Buying Windows

While picking a manufacturer is a big and important step, the process is not over once that has been done. Make sure you go through a quality supplier when purchasing your windows, as they will be able to assess the right products for your home and your needs. You also need to ensure that a certified, experienced professional is the one doing the window installation. A good window and a bad window don’t have many differences if they are installed poorly. It might cost more for a better installer, but it would still be less than having to pay for it to be redone or paying to redo the entire process. Also, faulty installation typically voids your warranty.

Keep the warranties for any brands or products you are looking into in mind; good warranties will pay for defective windows and the cost of having them removed and replaced. Don’t be afraid to ask about the warranty details or go with another brand or dealer if you don’t like their warranty options.

So what is the best way to do all of this? Read the reviews. Read every review you can find about brands, installers, products, suppliers, and warranties. Reviews shouldn’t be the only thing you research, but reviews are a great way to get an idea of a product or service outside of the company’s description. Plus, reading reviews allows you to see how and if someone has been able to use the same (or similar) product and what the results were.

Take Your Time

Picking out a window or windows is not as simple as it seems. You must take the time to learn about different brands and if they have the right products and solutions for you. It is also a good idea to speak to a professional about your needs and home to find the best suppliers and installers. It can be daunting and feel like a long, drawn out process, but when it’s all over, you’ve got quality windows to provide aesthetics, better insulation, andr increased home value. Take your time and make sure everything is done right.

Author: Angela Escobar