Installing a window in your shower can create an open and elegant feel by letting in natural light. Awning, casement, picture and transom windows are among the most common window types used in showers. But they don’t all perform well in every bathroom environment. Windows in showers improve bathroom ventilation, allowing moisture to escape and…

A single-hung, double-pane aluminum window ranges from $270 to $769 per window according to data we analyzed from RSMeans, a construction cost database.  The price of a dual-pane window fluctuates dramatically depending on factors such as window style, frame material and size. In addition, the window brand, type of installation and where you live also…

Replacing an entire window — including the frame and glass — can be costly and time-consuming. If you have a broken or defective window pane, replacing just the window glass is faster and more cost-effective. Experienced DIYers can replace the glass in a window with the right tools and a little know-how. However, consider your…

When adding or replacing windows for your home, the window frame material you select can determine the aesthetic, cost and maintenance requirements. Many homeowners pit aluminum against vinyl windows when deciding on a material. Aluminum windows’ modern look can boost curb appeal, and they can withstand tough weather. Vinyl windows are great for budget-conscious shoppers…

Choosing the right bathroom replacement windows can be confusing, but don’t be intimidated. With guidance from window experts we interviewed, you can find windows that look great, brighten the room and save energy. Whether installing bathroom windows yourself or hiring a professional, do your homework. Essential research includes exploring the best window brands, styles and…

You have several options to fix a broken window seal, including defogging or replacing the gas in a double-pane window. If your window is past its prime, though, it may be destined for full replacement. “The most common and effective method of window seal repair is to replace the insulated glass unit (IGU) while keeping…

Adding a bay or bow window to your home can increase natural light, maximize interior space and improve curb appeal. Both options contain multiple window sections that extend beyond the home’s exterior wall. The biggest difference between bay and bow windows is the number of window panels they contain and how they project from the…

Trains, construction and loud neighbors can increase sound transmission through your windows — disrupting your sleep, work and leisure activities. While you can’t shut down a nearby interstate to stop traffic noise and get your sleep, soundproofing your windows can help address your noise problem. You can soundproof windows using professional or do-it-yourself (DIY) methods.…

Jalousie windows, or louvered windows, are made up of slats that can open and close like blinds. Their main advantages are excellent airflow and appealing aesthetics for some homeowners. Unfortunately, they are also known for poor energy efficiency and security — so most homeowners will fare better choosing from more popular types of windows. These…

If light streaming through rectangular glass above a door — or a frosty-paned semicircle smartly positioned above another window — reminds you of yesteryear, it’s for good reason: Transom windows have been around since at least the 14th century. These compact windows serve many style and functional purposes, from adding natural light and airflow to…

Whether you’ve decided to replace a window for appearance and functionality or to improve its energy efficiency, you’ll need to accurately measure the existing window before you can order a replacement unit. To get precise measurements for your window replacement, you’ll need to measure the window’s width and height at the top, middle and bottom…

Standard window widths typically range from 2 to 4 feet, and standard heights are 3, 4 and 6 feet, according to Dave Heim, a retired Broward County, Florida, contractor with 17 years of experience installing windows. These dimensions represent the most common window sizes for different types of windows and can save you time finding…

The main difference between vinyl and wood windows is cost, maintenance and aesthetic appeal, with some wood windows costing roughly 60% more than vinyl windows. Cost aside, wood windows are prone to fading and rotting, demanding more maintenance than vinyl windows. Nevertheless, wood offers a timeless elegance that enhances your home’s curb appeal. Exploring new…

At first glance, single-hung and double-hung windows look identical. But, there are major differences between the two: A double-hung window’s top and bottom sashes open and close independently, whereas only the bottom sash of a single-hung window operates. The sash is a key window component that holds the glass panes together. Don’t confuse the sash…

Vinyl and fiberglass are among the most popular window materials used today. In fact, vinyl frames dominate when it comes to residential windows — more than 50% of the market share is vinyl windows, according to the Inter­national Association of Certified Home Inspectors (InterNACHI). Window frame materials influence the window’s durability, energy efficiency and aesthetics.…

Maybe some of your rooms feel drafty, making you wonder whether your home’s heating or cooling is working effectively — or maybe you’ve noticed visible signs of caulk peeling off or cracking. It could be time to recaulk your home’s windows. Some windows have caulk along all of the seams, inside and out. As your…

The first sunny day of spring can signal a return to weekend barbecues, short sleeves and household cleaning. From organizing closets to giving your car a good scrub, spring cleaning should consist of tidying up outside as much as inside. This begs the question: How often should your windows be cleaned? Home windows, with hard-to-reach…

Windows come in a variety of shapes and sizes but have one thing in common — they are designed to be resilient against weather changes, pressure and impact. However, things don’t always work as intended, and your window glass may occasionally crack. A sudden shift in temperature, a fly ball from a neighborhood baseball game,…

Replacing window screens is a straightforward do-it-yourself (DIY) job you can easily take on. All you do is remove the old screen, measure and cut the new one, place the new screen in the frame and then trim the excess screen mesh. If you need a new window, consider purchasing it from any of the…

After researching the best window brands, we determined that Renewal by Andersen produces the best storm windows because its Coastal Impact storm product line is certified for High-Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZs), designed to defend against high winds, flying debris and torrential rain.  In regions prone to high winds and severe weather, having storm windows goes…

After thoroughly researching Pella and Andersen Windows & Doors, we found that Pella is a great option if you’re on a tight budget. Andersen is one of our top choices if you prioritize a robust warranty to secure your long-term investment. Andersen and Pella have both been known for high-quality windows for decades. Both are…

We rated Window World 4.0 out of 5 stars. We recommend it if you have a large budget because it’s an Energy Star partner with a wide selection of styles. However, it lost points per our rating methodology because, based on customer feedback, it only sells vinyl windows and has a running theme of installation…

There are two types of window replacements: full-frame and pocket. As the name suggests, full-frame replacements involve replacing the entire window, including the frame. Pocket replacements, on the other hand, entail installing a new window inside the current frame. In most cases, you should opt for a pocket replacement. Pocket replacements are more affordable than…

The type of window you choose for your next installation or replacement impacts your home’s energy efficiency, curb appeal, noise reduction and more. Some windows showcase aesthetics, whereas others prioritize function over form. Consider technical factors such as frame material, spacers, glazing and overall window design. For example, picture windows are well-insulated but lack the…

Windows, like appliances, can be Energy Star certified. It’s the job of the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) — a nonprofit organization that rates the energy efficiency of windows, doors and skylights — to test windows and determine if they qualify for the Energy Star program. To do this, the organization developed a rating system…

Your window frame material affects everything from your home’s aesthetic to its energy efficiency. While your window frames should match your home’s overall style, it’s more important for them to align with your budget, climate and maintenance tolerance. The five most common window frames you’ll encounter are vinyl, fiberglass, wood, composite material — such as…

Ply Gem Windows & Doors, part of the Cornerstone Building Brands family, is known for selling more budget-friendly windows than many competitors. The company’s Energy Star partnership points to its efficient designs and performance, and we like that its website offers resources to help you select the right windows. However, Ply Gem doesn’t provide in-house…

We rated Andersen Windows & Doors 3.5 out of 5.0 stars. Its products are available at home improvement stores, so we recommend Andseren if you’d like to see its windows in person before buying them.  Although its windows are accessible to purchase, Andersen does not install them in-house. You must work with a third-party contractor…

Loewen Windows may not be as recognizable as those on our top window brands list, but the company has been a luxury window manufacturer for more than 100 years. Loewen is known for its artistry, high-end finishes and custom designs. This brand is for those who appreciate style and want premium material options. It’s not…

We rated Marvin Windows & Doors 4.2 out of 5 stars for its skylights and Energy Star-rated windows, but the brand lost points in our rating methodology because it’s missing common industry offerings, such as vinyl window options, and it does not have an in-house installation team. We recommend Marvin if you have a large…

Castle Windows is a highly awarded, full-service window brand and is a great option if you want vinyl-framed windows. Although its pricing is higher than some competitors, its comprehensive lifetime warranty is worth the investment for many, according to customer reviews. Castle doesn’t have fiberglass or wood window options, but it does offer rare window…

Milgard Windows and Doors stands out for its low pricing and choice of vinyl, fiberglass or aluminum windows. Also, Milgard’s customer reviews are mostly favorable despite a low rating with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). Its main drawbacks are that it doesn’t offer a few popular window styles and is not a full-service company like…

We rated Simonton Windows & Doors 4.0 out of 5.0 stars for its vast selection of energy-efficient windows and an unbeatable transferrable lifetime warranty on some of its products. We recommend Simonton if you don’t mind hiring a third-party installer because Simonton only manufactures its products; it does not install them.  Our Simonton review looks…

Our Pella windows review looks at energy efficiency, cost and more. Pella meets a range of budgets, but its warranty coverage is inconsistent.

Champion Windows is a well-respected brand in the home improvement industry, which is seen in its many awards, certifications and online ratings. Overall, its commitment to energy efficiency and various styles make it a good option if you’re looking for replacement windows. However, it’s not a nationwide company and only sells windows in two materials,…

Our Harvey windows review examines pricing, customer feedback and more. While the brand offers a large product selection, its warranty coverage is limited.

Windows affect your home’s lighting, aesthetics and energy efficiency. When choosing window replacements, you should consider design, functionality and price. You also want an installer that will provide quality work and minimal disruption. We research, review and rate window replacement companies that offer full-service installations and ready-made windows to help you find the right windows…