Great Lakes Windows FAQ

Great Lakes windows reviews

Find our Great Lakes windows FAQ below. Here we’ll look at all of the common questions we get about Great Lakes windows. If you have a question that isn’t answered we invite you to post a comment at the bottom to ask your question. We read all of the comments and will be happy to answer your question for everyone to see.

Who owns Great Lakes windows?

Great Lakes is owned by Ply Gem which is owned by Cornerstone Building Brands. Ply Gem has been in the building products industry for a very long time and they produce several window lines including Atrium, American Craftsman, Simonton and Silver Line in addition to Great Lakes. Find our Great Lakes windows reviews here.

Are Great Lakes windows any good?

They’re decent, but often over priced in my experience. Great Lakes is the highest priced window brand made by Ply Gem. Ply Gem also produces some of the cheapest windows out there as well as Simonton which is their mid-range line. The Great Lakes windows are perfectly fine, but their dealers often leave something to be desired. Learn about common window sales tactics here to avoid common traps.

Is the warranty on Great Lakes windows any good?

Yes. Great Lakes offers a lifetime warranty on their windows. Since they’re owned by a large company with a significant history in the building products industry it’s likely they’ll be around to honor the warranty for a long time. You should read and understand the warranty before you make a purchase so you’re not surprised later.

How much should Great Lakes windows cost?

The pricing for Great Lakes windows can vary quite a lot depending on the dealer and the salesperson. Often times window salespeople have a lot of discretion when pricing projects and the higher the retail price the higher the commission. This is not always good for the homeowner. You can find more info on 2022 replacement window prices here.

How long does it take to get Great Lakes windows?

The timing for custom manufacturing has been extended since the corona virus took over the world. Lead times for almost all windows are extended. It’s common to see manufacturing times in the range of 6-8 weeks. The total time a project takes will be longer as it takes some time for measuring and scheduling the installation. Find more info on how long it takes to get windows in 2022 here.

What window models does Great Lakes offer?

Great Lakes makes three main window lines. They are EcoSmart, Comfort Smart and Harbor Light. The EcoSmart is the lower end and Harbor Light is the higher end (and most expensive) option. Find detailed Great Lakes window reviews here.

Why are Great Lakes window salesmen so pushy?

It’s the business model. I’m sure there are exceptions, but brands like Great Lakes are designed to be sold through local window dealers who generally still operate like it’s 1975. The old fashioned “buy today” sales process is still alive and well in the replacement window industry. Great Lakes is known in the industry for their focus on sales training and you’ll often see that from their dealers.

Should you buy Great Lakes windows?

I wouldn’t. The windows made by Great Lakes are perfectly fine. There’s nothing inherently wrong with them, but the sales process can be challenging and the prices can be high. It just doesn’t make a lot of sense to buy these windows in 2022 in my humble opinion. Of course if you find a great dealer and reasonable pricing you could get a perfectly fine result.

Are Great Lakes windows energy efficient?

Yes. The windows made by Great Lakes are all custom made so the final energy efficiency will depend on which package you order. You can pick less expensive packages that will be less efficient or more expensive packages that will be more efficient. Your dealer or salesperson should be able to explain the options so you can pick a solution that works for you. If the salesman is not able to explain the options clearly you should look for another company. There are plenty of fish in the sea.

Why do people buy Great Lakes windows?

Usually people buy Great Lakes windows because the salesman suggest this product line. Most customers have never heard of Great Lakes windows and there’s nothing wrong with that. Most customers have never heard of most window brands which is why they turn to replacement window reviews to find the best option for their home. We can help with information on all US window manufacturers. Have more questions? Let us know.

Do you have a question about Great Lakes windows that was not answered? 

Post a comment below to let us know. We’ll add your question to the list so everyone has more info. If you think we’re wrong about anything post that too and we’ll be happy to address your concern.

You can also find detailed window reviews hererecommended window companies here and common window sales tactics here.

Happy window shopping!

Other posts about Great Lakes windows that you might find helpful:

How can you find a great window company?

That part is easy.  Check this section for recommendations of window companies all over the country. There’s no better way to get new windows.

Other posts you might find interesting:

Update: We now have more recommend LOCAL window companies than ever before.   Click here to see who we recommend in your town.  It's 100% free.  You'll thank me.  There is no better resource; you're going to love it.  See for yourself right here.  

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