Month: February 2022

Heartland windows is owned by the Ricke family and is based in Aplington, IA. They’ve been in the window business since 1994. Are Heartland windows the right option for your home? Check this page to find Heartland windows reviews for more info and this page for reviews of other replacement window manufacturers.

Heartland windows are perfectly fine, but not particularly remarkable. It can be difficult for the smaller manufacturers to be competitive with the larger and more well established manufacturing companies. It’s generally our recommendation to work with a larger manufacturer to make sure you get top of the line results. A larger company will also offer you a warranty that is more stable and reliable as we see smaller window manufacturers going out of business from time to time which is not ideal for the customer who is expecting a lifetime warranty. Find more info on replacement window manufacturers here.

I’d say it’s not the best. Almost all vinyl window companies say they have a lifetime warranty and Heartland does as well. The main downside to the Heartland window warranty is that it provides prorated coverage on the insulated glass after only 10 years. That’s much shorter than what you’ll see from many other manufacturers.

That might be a smart strategy for Heartland as the warranty from smaller window manufacturers can represent a reasonable liability. I heard that the reason Gorell windows went bankrupt was because they experienced a huge run of warranty claims for seal failures and they couldn’t keep up. I don’t have any inside info on that rumor, but it sounds like like something that makes sense. That said, it’s reasonable for a small manufacturer like Heartland to limit their exposure, but for the customer a longer warranty is available from larger manufacturers.

I wouldn’t. It’s not because there’s any huge problem with the windows. I just don’t think it makes sense to take the gamble on a small manufacturer when there are so many other choices out there.

If there was something unique and fantastic about the windows it might be worth taking the gamble on the smaller manufacturer but there isn’t so I wouldn’t advise taking the chance. Why would you when there’s basically no upside? Find other replacement window reviews here.

Heartland windows are custom made so every window will be made to order. All window manufacturers got behind schedule during covid. Typically it’ll take a few days to get your windows measured, then several weeks for manufacturing and then some time to schedule the installation. Total timing of 6-8 weeks may be typical. You’ll want to talk to the company you are ordering the windows from to get an idea of the current timing. You can also find more info on how long it takes to get windows in 2022 here.

The pricing for custom windows will vary quite a lot depending on the options you pick and the nature of the installation. The typical pricing for windows like these in a pretty basic configuration would be in the range of $600-$800 per window including installation. May factors can impact the overall cost such as the color of the widows, the level of energy efficiency in the glass and much more. Find info on replacement window pricing in 2022 here.

Not really. Heartland only offers three efficiency packages in the double hung windows which is a pretty limited offering. The Ultra series is available with triple pane glass which is a decent option. The other models are only available with the standard glass which is just clear glass (not very efficient at all) and the standard plus package which is a pretty basic option with low-e glass.

Another reason to consider a larger manufacturer would be that the larger company will likely offer many more efficiency packages so you can get a better solution. The windows will be in the house for decades so it’s worthwhile to get an energy efficient solution. Find more info on energy efficiency ratings here.

Vinyl. Heartland windows are vinyl windows. Vinyl is a popular choice in window manufacturing because it is energy efficient, durable and cost effective. Vinyl is the most popular window material in the US with other options being fiberglass, composite, aluminum and wood.

The color options for Heartland windows are pretty limited. The Ultra model is available with white or sandstone frames. Then you can add a woodgrain laminate interior or an exterior finish to the windows. There are a handful of browns and a green exterior option.

The Elite and Hampton series are only available with the white or sandstone exterior and a woodgrain interior optional. These color options are pretty limited. There is also no option for black windows which are increasingly popular.

You can find Heartland windows reviews here along with more info about replacement windows than you can shake a stick at.

In my experience Harvey windows are pretty average. The Harvey window line is widely distributed in the Northeast and they are very popular among smaller contractors. We see Harvey window complaints on our site which could mean there are some quality issues or it could just be a few squeaky wheels. I haven’t seen anything about Harvey windows that would put them in the nicer tier of vinyl window options.

Harvey windows are mostly custom made to order so the windows will take several weeks to be produced. All window manufacturers were backed up during covid which extended the lead times for Harvey windows, but that should subside over time. Typically it will take 4-6 weeks for a custom window order to arrive and you can find more info about how long it takes to get windows in 2022 here.

Pricing for custom windows will vary quite a lot depending on the options you pick and the company you are buying the windows from. Basic Harvey windows will likely be in the range of $600-$900 per window installed. Prices can easily go higher if you were to pick some of the more expensive options or if there is something more complicated about your particular installation. You can find more info about window prices in 2022 here.

I probably wouldn’t. Harvey makes perfectly fine windows, but there’s nothing particularly remarkable about them. When buying new windows it’s wise to remember that they will be in the house for decades. You’ll want to get a good quality window as you’ll be dealing with it for a very long time. Find more info on other window manufacturers here.

Yes. Harvey purchased Soft-Lite windows in late 2016. Harvey is a window manufacturer that makes mid0range windows and Soft-Lite bills themselves as a higher end manufacturer.

The warranty on Harvey windows is ok, but certainly not the best we’ve seen. Harvey offers a lifetime warranty on the frames and sashes, 20 years on the insulated glass unit and there is no glass breakage or labor coverage. If the warranty is important to you I would suggest looking for a company that offers a stronger warranty on their windows.

Yes. Harvey offers a wide range of energy efficiency options so you can order the windows in any configuration that you’d like. The Harvey windows are available in lower cost configurations that are less efficient and higher cost configurations that will be more efficient.

The best way to compare the options is to look at the cost vs the efficiency ratings. You’ll be able to see how different efficiency options impact the efficiency ratings which will help to make a decision. Your contractor or installer should also be able to explain the advantages and disadvantages of different options.

Harvey windows are most popular in New England and the Northeast. When I worked in Boston long ago I was surprised at how popular Harvey windows are available in that area. You will see people who are unhappy with Harvey windows and they’re a mid-range window option. If you’re considering Harvey windows for your house you might want to also explore a higher end option so you can understand the differences. New windows will be in your house for decades so quality is important.

Usually you’ll see smaller contractors selling Harvey windows. The small contractors will like Harvey because the distribution locations are all over the place, the lead times are short and their inside sales staff can be very helpful. These are all great for the contractor, but they don’t matter too much to the end user. If you’re considering installing Harvey windows in your house it probably doesn’t matter if the inside sales staff is friendly.

Usually you’ll see larger window dealers offering other brands because you can find a higher quality product elsewhere.

Installers do tend to like Harvey windows. Customers are sometimes perfectly happy with the windows as well, but we do see people who are unhappy with Harvey windows. In my opinion there are nicer options out there. If you’re considering Harvey windows I would suggest exploring your options before you commit to that product line.

Gentek is owned by Associated Materials based in Cuyahoga Falls, OH. They own several building products brands and have been in the industry since 1947 with over $1 billion in annual sales. Gentek windows are produced in 5 US manufacturing plants and every window is custom made in America.

Yes. Gentek is one of the nicest product lines produced by Associated Materials. The Gentek window line is positioned above several other window lines in terms of quality and features. Gentek windows are some of the nicest windows available today and are often very affordably priced compared to other high end vinyl windows.

There are many vinyl windows available in the market and Gentek windows, specifically the Signature Elite model, are some of the nicest windows available. I would recommend this window model in most cases and I do think they provide a quality result and a great value.

No. Alside is also owned by Associated Materials along with Gentek, Preservation, Revere, Alpine and other brands. Generally speaking the Gentek and Preservation models will be the nicer models and the Alside models will be the lower end.

Yes. Gentek windows will use higher end components for a better end result. Alside windows are typically sold through smaller contractors who are more focused on a low price than a quality result. Gentek and Preservation windows are often sold through larger window dealers who are more concerned about quality.

Gentek windows are all custom made and are available with a wide range of available options. For example, the Signature Elite model is available with over 100 energy efficiency options. That means they can be configured to be more of a mid-range or they can be configured to be more of a high end option. In any scenario they are backed by a lifetime warranty from a billion dollar company and they’re one of the better window options available in the market today.

Yes. The Gentek windows are available in many configuration with a wide range of energy efficiency packages. The popular Signature Elite double hung model has a 0.04 air infiltration rate in most cases which is very good and is much better than the ratings you’ll see from many other manufacturers.

Yes. Gentek windows come with a lifetime warranty that covers almost everything about the windows. That means the warranty is good for as long as you own the house and it is transferable when you sell the house. Some dealers will also include the glass breakage warranty in their orders for additional coverage. The Gentek warranty is backed by a billion dollar company with a 70 year history in the building products industry making it more reliable than the warranty you’ll get from smaller or newer manufacturers.

Gentek windows are some of the nicest vinyl windows available in the market. They make a range of options with the Signature Elite model being the most popular choice. This model uses slim frames to maximize glass area, upgraded hardware to increase longevity, a wide range of energy efficient options and a lifetime warranty. This is a highly recommended option.

The best way to buy Gentek windows is through Window Universe. Window Universe offers Gentek windows in many cities around the country and they offer quotes online with no pushy in-home salespeople. You can get a quote by email and you can interact with a product expert who can revise your quote or answer any questions. This is the easiest way to get good quality windows for your home.

Yes. Window Universe offers Gentek windows and they email pricing and product info. The windows can be purchased with or without professional installation. This is the easiest way to get new windows for your home.

CertianTeed doesn’t actually make windows. The windows that are currently marketed as CertainTeed windows are actually made by Mi windows based in Pennsylvania. They’re a low cost producer. As a result the CertainTeed windows you see in the market won’t be the nicest products around. It’s our recommendation that you look for another window option.

No. CertainTeed doesn’t make windows at all. The windows you’ll see advertised as CertainTeed windows are actually made by Mi windows and they’re not the nicest options out there. You can definitely find a better option from many other window manufacturers.

No. CertainTeed windows are generally not going to be recommended by most window experts. Many years ago when I sold windows for a national window manufacturer we would use CertainTeed windows as an example of a bad design. They have since changed manufacturers so the windows are completely different, but they’re still not one of the nicer options in the market.

Vinyl. CertainTeed windows are made by Mi Windows and they are vinyl windows. Vinyl is the most popular material for residential windows in the United States because it’s energy efficient, durable and very cost effective. Other options like wood, fiberglass and composite materials will be more expensive and sometimes less efficient too.

Not really. CertainTeed doesn’t make windows so the warranty you get on CertainTeed branded windows is from the manufacturer. CertianTeed windows installed after 2007 were made by Mi windows and their warranty isn’t spectacular as they’re a low cost producer. They generally don’t make the nicest windows out there. You should contact Mi windows if you have a warranty issue with windows installed after 2007. Their number is (717) 365-2500. Find more info on Mi and other window manufacturers here.

The pricing for CertainTeed windows will vary quite a lot depending on the options you pick and the nature of the installation. Typically CertainTeed windows are on the lower end of the quality and price spectrum. You can probably get basic windows installed for $500-$700 per window. Adding options to the order will increase the cost. Find info on 2022 replacement window prices here.

Usually a contractor will sell CertainTeed windows because they’re buying other CertainTeed products. For example, CertainTeed offers roofing, siding, and insulation so many contractors already deal with their products. You will almost never see a company that specializes in windows selling CertainTeed windows because they are not very nice. Usually you’ll see smaller roofing or siding contractors also selling CertainTeed because it’s easy for them and because they’re not too concerned about offering a top quality solution.

Not really. CertainTeed windows are actually made by Mi windows and they’re a lower end option. They do offer several energy efficiency packages so you can get a range of options, but they won’t be as nice as the products you’ll see from higher end vinyl window manufacturers. My company has sold Mi windows in the past and the quality level was disappointing. Find the best replacement window info here.

Well, there’s always something worse out there, but CertainTeed windows are not very nice. You will almost never see a company that specializes in windows selling CertainTeed windows. They’re just a lower end option that is usually offered by smaller siding or roofing contractors. If someone has suggested that you buy CertainTeed windows you might want to look at another option or two so you can understand the differences. These windows are not very nice and would not be a product we would recommend.

Sort of. Andersen windows are perfectly fine windows, but not particularly remarkable in terms of quality. Andersen makes wood, clad and composite windows. They are mostly sold to builders for new construction projects, but Andersen also makes replacement windows.

Generally speaking windows sold for new construction are not going to be as nice as replacement window since the builders drive down the costs which drives down the quality. Sometimes people think Andersen makes the best windows and that’s not really the case in our opinion. You can find detailed window reviews here for more info.

People buy windows for all different reasons. Some people think Andersen windows are the best windows which might be why they buy them. Andersen makes a range of options from less expensive to very fancy windows and the quality will depend on the product line that you pick. You can find Andersen window reviews here and info on Renewal by Andersen window complaints here.

That’s relative. Andersen windows are often times more expensive than other brands. They’ll tell you that you get better quality from Andersen which makes them worth the cost. You certainly can find perfectly nice windows from other manufacturers so if Andersen windows are not in your budget just look for other options.

Vinyl windows will often be more cost effective and sometimes more energy efficient as well. Find window reviews here to find the best windows for your project.

No. Renewal by Andersen branded windows are made of a composite material called Fibrex and are sold through Renewal by Andersen dealers which are often franchises. Andersen branded windows are wood and vinyl clad windows that are sold through builders, window dealers and sometimes through lumber yards or building products distributors. They do also make a composite window line similar to the Renewal by Andersen product that is sold under the Andersen name.

The warranty on Andersen windows will vary depending on the window model that you purchased. The warranty for Renewal by Andersen windows is also different than the warranty for Andersen new construction windows. The dealer or builder selling you the windows should be able to provide you with the warranty for the windows you’re considering. It is important to read and understand the warranty so you can decide if it is a product that makes sense for you.

Yes, many people do like Andersen windows. In our many years in this industry we see many more complaints about Renewal by Andersen than the actual Andersen wood and clad windows.

No. We have heard from customers that window salesmen have made claims that Renewal by Andersen windows will increase the value of the home or that other types of windows will decrease the value. This is not likely to be the case. When your home is appraised the appraiser looks at the size, the condition, the location and recent sales prices of other comparable homes in the area. They generally don’t care at all about the brand of your windows.

Andersen makes a wide range of windows so some are better than others. There are certainly windows out there that are not as nice as Andersen windows and may be other brands that are a better solution for your project. You’ll want to look through detailed window reviews to find the best solution for your home.

The lifespan of a window will depend on many factors. Window salesmen might make unfounded claims about the expected longevity of a window so they are not a great resource. The best way to see how long a window manufacturer expects their products to last is to look at the warranty. Windows that have a 20 year warranty on the frames and glass are expected to last at least that long. If a window has a lifetime warranty that can be even better, but you may not live in the house for 20 years anyway so that may not be relevant. Find more window info including warranty info here.

Andersen branded windows are made of wood, composite or vinyl clad wood. The all wood windows are the most historic looking and often the most beautiful. The downside to all wood is that they need to be painted on the exterior to protect them from the element. Vinyl clad wood is a good option because the vinyl cladding protects the wood. The downside is that the vinyl cladding can fade or become damaged over time. The composite windows can sound nice but they’re often very expensive and the warranty is still 20 years in many cases so they’re not actually expected to last any longer.

The pricing for Andersen windows will vary a lot depending on the product you pick and the nature of the installation. It’s common for us to hear from readers who were quoted $2000 or more for a Renewal by Andersen composite window. The Andersen brand wood windows, like the 400 series or 100 series, will often be much less expensive. Those are sometimes better options than the very expensive composite windows.

That’s relative. Both Andersen and Pella make wood and clad windows. The Pella clad windows are aluminum clad and the Andersen clad windows are vinyl clad. Each salesman will tell you his option is better and they’re probably both wrong. Both Andersen and Pella make perfectly fine windows so one isn’t really better than the other.

Pella recently settled a class action lawsuit relative to the windows leaking so I would assume they’ve made some design changes to address that issue.

No. Andersen wood or composite windows are generally more expensive and less energy efficient than a nicer vinyl window so they’re not better. The advantage to an Andersen window is that it’s either real wood or it looks more like wood than a vinyl window. If the look of a wood window is worth the trade off of higher (worse) air infiltration rates and higher cost then Andersen windows might make sense for your project. If not then you might be better off with a high quality vinyl window. You may be able to take a nice vacation with the money you save.

Not really. Jeld-Wen makes a wide range of options. They make wood windows, vinyl windows and aluminum clad wood windows. IN our experience there are frequent service problems with all types of Jeld-Wen windows. We also hear from readers of the site regarding their own problems with these windows. You can find comments from readers outlining Jeld-Wen window complaints here.

Jeld-Wen windows has purchased other window and aluminum screen companies over the years. Now Jeld-Wen branded windows are produced at several manufacturing plants around the US. The exact location of the manufacturing will depend on the window line you choose. At one point Jeld-Wen was the largest company in Oregon, but they have since moved their corporate office to Charlotte, NC.

Jeld-Wen is a publicly traded company based in Charlotte, NC. The company was founded in Oregon in 1960 and has since moved their corporate office to North Carolina.

Yes. In our experience the warranty on Jeld-Wen windows is pretty solid. The windows can have service issues which are frustrating for the customer and for the installer. The company does a decent job of handling issues which is nice, but it would certainly be nicer if there were no issues in the first place.

I probably wouldn’t. Jeld-Wen windows tend to have a lot of issues in my experience. Our company sold Jeld-Wen windows for several years and eventually stopped after dealing with a large number of quality problems. To their credit the issues were always fixed, but it was a huge hassle for us and for our customers. In my experience it’s not worth the trouble to deal with Jeld-Wen windows.

Yes. Like most larger window manufacturers Jeld-Wen offers many energy efficient options for your windows. You can pick from dozens of efficiency packages when you place your order. Many contractors or installers don’t understand the differences in efficiency packages as it makes no difference to them. They install your windows, collect your money and walk away so the efficiency isn’t really relevant to them. It is our advice to look at the efficiency ratings for various options to pick the solution that works best for your project.

Yes. In our experience Jeld-Wen windows frequently arrive from the factories will quality issues. It is a hassle to deal with these windows. To their credit the manufacturer was always able to resolve the service issues but the inconvenience to the customers and the installers is not worth the trouble in our opinion.

It depends. The main sales pitch for Jeld-Wen windows vs Pella windows is that Jeld-Wen uses an extruded aluminum cladding on their windows while Pella uses a roll formed aluminum cladding. The advantage to the extruded cladding is that it is much stronger and harder to damage than a roll formed cladding. Pella did recently settle a class action lawsuit relating to leaking windows and I would think it’s possible that the weaker cladding could have played a part in that. I don’t have any issued info on the Pella lawsuit, but I do think Jeld-Wen windows might compare well to Pella.

Hopefully a very long time. You’ll want to review the warranty specific to the Jeld-Wen window model you’re considering to see how long they expect the windows to last. The AuraLast wood windows have a very long warranty, longer than most wood windows, which tells you that they expect the wood windows to last about as long as a vinyl window. That’s a bit unusual for wood windows and can be a great selling point. Find more info on Jeld-Wen window reviews here.

The first step to resolving an issue with Jeld-Wen windows is to contact the company that sold you the windows. They’ll likely be the most helpful. They can determine if the problem you’re experiencing is caused by the windows or by the installation. If it’s an issue with the windows they can file a claim with Jeld-Wen to get the parts needed to resolve the issue.

If that company isn’t available or if they aren’t particularly helpful you can contact Jeld-Wen directly to file a warranty claim. In our experience they are relatively helpful although it’s still possible your warranty claim could be denied for a variety of reasons. Find more Jeld-Wen window info here.

Pella windows is based in Pella, Iowa. They have been making windows in Iowa for many years and Pella windows are now distributed all over the US.

Pella makes wood, vinyl and aluminum clad windows. There are advantages and disadvantages of each type so be sure to explore your options before making a decision. Vinyl windows tend to be the most energy efficient and the most cost effective. Wood windows can be be beautiful but they require more maintenance. Aluminum clad windows can be more durable but there have been issues with this type of product in the past.

That’s up to you. Most of the time Pella windows don’t make the best solution for a remodeling project. Pella windows are often used by builders for new construction work and they can be a good solution. When it comes to remodeling projects there are often better choices. See our replacement window reviews here for more information.

Sometimes. As is the case with most larger window manufacturers Pella makes a wide range of window models. Some are perfectly nice and some are not so nice. It is a mistake to think that a window must be good because it’s made by Pella. That is not the case.

Yes. The Pella window warranty is a pretty solid warranty. The details will vary based on the window model you choose so you should read the exact warranty carefully to understand what is covered and what is not. When we hear from people who are unhappy with window warranty service it’s usually the case that the customer did not understand what would be covered until they had a problem.

Yes. Pella makes the low end ThermaStar windows that are sold in some Lowes stores.

Yes. You can buy the lower end ThermaStar by Pella window line at Lowes stores. Those windows aren’t very nice. To get the nicer Pella window lines you’ll need to contact a Pella dealer.

Prices for Pella windows will vary quite a lot. The cheapest ThermaStar by Pella windows are available in Lowes stores for around $300. The nicer wood windows can cost quite a bit more. They can go up to several thousand dollars including installation. Find information about the costs of replacement windows in 2022 here.

Some Pella windows are available in stock sizes so they can potentially be available faster than custom sizes. For example you can walk right into some Lowes stores and pickup a stock size ThermaStar by Pella window. These aren’t necessity the nicest windows so you may be better off ordering a custom window and waiting for it to arrive. You can find info on how long it takes to get windows in 2022 here.

You can buy the cheap ThermaStar by Pella windows at Lowes stores and you can buy the nicer lines of Pella windows through dealers around the country.

Yes. Pella settled a class action lawsuit for $26 million in 2018. The allegation was that the Pella wood windows leaked causing water damage to the windows and the houses where the windows were installed.

Pella denied the allegations and said that wood rot can be caused by many things but they did settle the lawsuit and they’re on the hook for quite a lot of money.

Associated Materials or AMI makes windows in 5 US manufacturing plants. They are located in Kinston, NC, Cuyahoga Falls, Oh, Cedar Rapids, IA, Fife, WA and Yuma, AZ. The windows from AMI are distributed all over the US and Canada.

Associated Materials or AMI makes several popular window brands including Alside, Revere, Gentek, Preservation, Alpine and more. The windows are custom made with many available options.

Associated Materials makes a wide range of options from cheaper windows that aren’t the nicest in the world to more expensive windows that are top performers.

No. Associated Materials owns Alside along with several other popular window brands.

Associated Materials is owned by a private equity group called Strategic Value Partners, LLC. They are a private equity investment group. In the past Associated Materials had been owned by US Steel and was publicly traded at one point. They have been a private company for many years at this point.

Associated Materials makes a wide range of options from cheaper windows that aren’t the nicest in the world to more expensive windows that are top performers.

Associated Materials makes many window brands and models. The best windows made by AMI are the Gentek Signature Elite, Revere Berkshire Elite and Preservation Reserve models. It is possible that your specific project could have requirements that would lead to another model being a better choice. Those models listed above are the best option in most cases.

Yes. The warranty from Associated Materials is pretty good. Most models come with a lifetime warranty. Some models will come with a glass breakage warranty and some include labor coverage as well.

The nicer windows from Associated Materials can be a good value. The lower end models are not as nice and that is the case with all manufacturers. Since the windows are all custom made there are many available options and configurations. Your dealer should be able to make a recommendation and explain the available options. Note, all dealers will not be able to sell all brands and models offered by AMI.

The timing for all replacement window manufacturing has been extended over the last year or so. Windows from AMI are also on a longer lead time than usual. For most popular models and styles a manufacturing time of 6-8 weeks is typical right now. Keep in mind that some options like exterior colors or custom sized patio doors can take much longer.

Since the windows from AMI are all custom made there are a wide range of available prices. You can order more basic windows at a lower cost and nicer windows at a higher cost. Usually the nicer windows will cost $700-$1000 per window including installation. Find more info on 2022 window prices here.

AMI or Associated Materials is a wholesale manufacturer. In order to buy windows from them you need to be a contractor or builder. If you’re a homeowner looking to upgrade your windows you’ll want to order them through a dealer. There are many dealers of AMI windows across the country.

Yes. You can order windows from AMI through Window Universe in most cities across the country. The windows can be ordered with or without professional installation. Find more info about this online ordering program here.

They’re perfectly fine, but not remarkable. Champion isn’t the largest manufacturer around so they don’t tend to offer anything unique. The features offered by Champion are perfectly nice, but in my opinion they’re often oversold by their commission salespeople. Find replacement window reviews and information here to see other options.

No. I would not recommend buying Champion windows. In my experience these windows are often overpriced and the feedback we’ve heard from Champion windows customers isn’t always the best. You can see what Champion windows customers have to say about their experiences in the comments on this page.

Yes. The prices for replacement windows can vary a lot based on the scope of the project and the retail markup of the dealer. Based on what we’ve heard from customers of Champion windows their prices can be very high relative to the products they offer. You can likely find better options at a better price elsewhere.

Yes. Champion windows tend to use energy efficient options for an efficient result. I’ve heard their salespeople make claims about having the most efficient windows or the best windows and that’s just not true. They use the same types of low-e glass that many other companies will also use. There is nothing unique about the efficiency of Champion windows.

Using pushy salespeople seems to be the standard business model of many companies. This is an old fashioned tactic, but it must work for these companies because they continue to use it. They’ll often times show you a very high price then offer some discount if you buy right away. Nothing in this business changes on a daily basis. Any company telling you that you need to buy today to get the special deal is trying to manipulate you. You should avoid companies that do that.

The prices of Champion windows will vary a lot. Typically in-home window salespeople make a commission that is based on the sale price of the project. The higher the price the higher the sales commission. They usually want to get you to sign a contract on the spot because they are concerned that if you don’t sign up immediately you never will. This pricing strategy with artificial urgency is usually a sign that you’re getting a bad deal. In my humble opinion you should avoid companies that use these tactics. Find more info on 2022 window prices here.

The manufacturing time for all replacement windows, including Champion windows, was extended in 2021 and continues to be extended. The exact timing will depend on the demand at the time and the options you pick. In general some options like exterior colors or tempered glass, can add time to a custom window order. The best way to estimate the time a window project will take will be to ask the salesperson. Next ask them what happens if your order is delayed or takes longer than expected. That’ll tell you how confident they are in their estimate. Find more info on how long it takes to get new windows here.

Yes. There are certainly worse choices out there, but Champion wouldn’t be on the top of my list. The windows they make are perfectly fine. The sales process often leaves something to be desired. The prices tend to be higher than comparable alternatives and readers of our site haven’t had great things to say about their warranty service. For these reasons I would look elsewhere.

No. There are only a few glass manufacturers that make the glass for every replacement window company in the country. There is nothing unique about the glass Champion uses. It is true that Champion will use a heavier or stronger low-e coating in their windows than other companies might recommend, but if you want glass like that you can get something similar from most replacement window companies.

Yes, the Champion window warranty looks pretty good on paper. We have heard from readers who have had trouble getting Champion windows covered under warranty. That could be caused by a variety of factors and isn’t necessarily an indication that Champion isn’t taking care of their customers but it’s not a great look. You can read comments from readers of our site about their experience with the Champion windows warranty here.

No. ThermaStar windows are some of the cheapest and lowest quality windows that Pella makes. Traditionally Box stores only carry very low end windows. In order to meet the price point that box stores like Lowes and Home Depot want the manufacturers must make very low quality windows. They are not the best choice. Find replacement window reviews here for better options.

It’s decent but not the best window warranty that you’ll find. The ThermaStar warranty says it’s a lifetime warranty and it is. There are limitations for example, labor is only covered for 2 years, if the warranty is transferred it gets shorter, and Pella says that instead of fixing an issue they might just give you your money back.

Pella also says that they make no warranty as to the amount of argon gas in the windows. We have seen that disclaimer on other warranties but it’s not very common and not a great sign for the quality control that they expect in my opinion.

ThermaStar by Pella windows are some of the cheapest windows out there. The window we used in our review video was purchased at a Lowest store in Virginia for around $200. That was a little while back and prices for all building products are up. I would guess you can still get a cheap window from Lowes for $300 or less. Find more info on replacement window prices in 2022 here.

No. These are very low end windows. In my opinion they’re not very nice at all and not a good solution for anyone who needs windows. The only advantage is that these windows are usually in stock at Lowes stores so if you need a window today you might be able to find one that will work.

The downside to that is that you don’t get these stock windows in custom sizes. For a new construction project that’s not a huge deal because you can make the opening any size. For a remodeling project you typically don’t change the size of the opening so a standard size window is not a good solution.

It takes no time at all. You can typically go to any a Lowes store and buy either a ThermaStar or a ReliaBilt window off the shelf. The downside to that is that you need to pick from the sizes they happen to have in stock. Buying stock windows is usually not a good idea because they likely won’t fit just right.

No. In my opinion box stores like Lowes or Home Depot are usually not the best place to buy new windows. They’re not window experts and they tend to sell the cheapest possible options. Buying windows from a reputable window dealer or a company that specializes in windows is usually a better option and will yield a better result.

Because they’re not very nice. The ThermaStar line sold in Lowes stores is the cheapest product line that Pella makes and it’s not a great product. You’ll likely be much better off buying a nicer type of windows. If you order custom sized windows from a company that specializes in windows you’ll get a better fit and a better result in our humble opinion.

ThermaStar windows are made by Pella for sale in Lowes stores. They’re typically a rather low end option that does not make a great solution. There are literally hundreds of options that will provide a better solution. Find detailed window reviews and info here.

Sort of. ThermaStar windows are made by Pella but they are different than the regular Pella windows you’ll buy from a Pella dealer. The ThermaStar windows sold at Lowes are some of the cheapest windows out there. The Pella branded windows like the 250 and 350 series vinyl windows will be a much nicer solution.