Exterior view of three window panes
Windows

Champion Windows review 2024

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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, so it won’t be the best choice for everyone compared with other top window brands.  

Our Champion Windows review includes an analysis of the company’s product offerings, customer reviews, energy performance, warranty coverage and more to see how it compares to other top window brands. 

Champion Windows features impressive industry certifications and years of experience.
Pros
  • Holds multiple industry certifications and awards
  • Offers generous discounts
  • Installs doors, enclosed patios and sunrooms
Cons
  • Only sells vinyl windows
  • Varies prices by location
  • Has some customer reviews pointing to communication issues and slow timelines

Our thoughts on Champion 

We used our scoring methodology to rate Champion on factors such as high-end versus budget-friendly window lines, customization options, the number of window styles and materials, energy-efficiency features and more. Our rating for Champion is 4.4 out of 5 stars. 

Champion has been in business for more than 70 years, and it has a great reputation in the industry and with its customers. However, it may not be a good option for you if you’re looking for a warm, architectural window aesthetic.

What we like

First, we like that Champion is highly certified and awarded. Its Energy Star certification is important to us because it means its windows are high-performing and will keep your home more comfortable and your energy bills low. The company carries the AAMA Gold Label from the American Architectural Manufacturers Association, a seal of approval for its product quality. It’s also certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council, Efficient Windows Collaborative and Vinyl Siding Institute.

The brand fares well on review sites such as the Better Business Bureau (BBB) and Trustpilot, with many customers praising its efficient, long-lasting windows and friendly service. 

Also, Champion doesn’t just sell windows. In addition to selling nine window types, the company provides a variety of door types and builds screened-in enclosures, such as sunrooms. The brand is known for high-quality patio doors, sliding glass doors and storm doors. 

Champion also offers substantial seasonal discounts on many of its products and services to help you match your budget. 

What we don’t like

The first thing that could deter you from choosing Champion is its limited availability. It’s only available in 29 U.S. states. You can use the location directory on its website to check whether there’s a location near you. 

Not only is the company limited in its locations, but it’s also limited in the window materials it uses. The company only offers vinyl windows. Don’t get us wrong: Vinyl is durable and budget-friendly. However, this isn’t the brand for you if you prefer the look of wood or the versatility of fiberglass. 

Our biggest qualm with the company is that, while it does have many positive online customer reviews, those that are negative consistently mention communication issues and slow timelines, especially when resolving a problem with a product.

Compare top window brands

Champion scores comparably to other popular brands in the industry. We rated it similarly to the window companies below on warranty coverage, window selection and energy efficiency. 

Provider Our Rating Glass and Hardware Warranty Labor Warranty Average Project Price Get Started
4.7
10–20 years 2 years $10,252 GET ESTIMATE
4.4
Limited lifetime Limited lifetime $12,970 GET ESTIMATE
4.4
10–20 years 2 years $12,807 GET ESTIMATE
4.3
10–20 years 0 years $9,603 GET ESTIMATE
Provider Our Rating Glass and Hardware Warranty Labor Warranty Average Project Price Get Started
4.7
10–20 years 2 years $10,252 GET ESTIMATE
4.4
Limited lifetime Limited lifetime $12,970 GET ESTIMATE
4.4
10–20 years 2 years $12,807 GET ESTIMATE
4.3
10–20 years 0 years $9,603 GET ESTIMATE
No results were found.
Pricing information shown is averaged from our October 2023 survey of 1,500 homeowners who purchased replacement windows for their homes.

Customer thoughts

Champion Windows has received thousands of customer reviews online, which we recommend looking at to gauge others’ experiences with a brand. We read more than 100 reviews between the BBB and Trustpilot and were happy to see that most feedback is positive. Champion isn’t accredited with the BBB, but it does have 3.5 out of 5 stars from customers on the site out of more than 1,100 reviews. It has 4 out of 5 stars on Trustpilot with more than 3,500 reviews. 

Customers who rate the brand highly reference its speedy installations, helpful sales reps and fair pricing. We read a review by Mickey that praised the window and workmanship quality. Another from Meg mentioned a great payment plan and improved curb appeal and comfort for her home. 

The company has lower reviews on the BBB this year than some prior, and the BBB notes a pattern of complaint regarding delays. We noted many complaints of delays regarding installation and fixing issues.

According to reviews such as Jeremy’s on the BBB, lack of communication is part of those delays. He says, “Have been waiting 3 months for minor issues to be resolved. I call every day and am told an installation team member will reach out. If they don’t reach out, you call back. It’s just a vicious cycle of 2 hours a day calling to get nowhere.”

Champion did respond on BBB to the pattern of complaints, indicating that “the impacts of Covid caused major backlogs to our supply chain and wreaked havoc on our workforce.” The company stated that it is working to rectify these issues.

What windows does Champion sell? 

Champion sells nine window types and two window lines. Whether you’re looking for replacement windows or windows for a new construction home, the brand offers a good variety.

Window lines

The company’s ColorBond line allows you to customize your window design with seven colors. The colors are long-lasting and made to adhere to vinyl. The bonding is heat-reflective and features impact-resistant technology, preventing it from fading, warping or letting in heat. 

The TimberBond line is ideal if you want the look of wood without the high price tag. This line consists of vinyl windows with the appearance of cherrywood, dark oak or English oak. It uses the company’s own pioneered technology to permanently bond the finish to the frame, preventing blistering, chipping and peeling.

Window styles

Champion sells the following types of windows:

  • Basement hopper: Basement hoppers are installed near the ceiling line of your basement to allow in natural light. They’re smaller than the average window and are hinged at the bottom and open at the top. 
  • Bay and bow: Bay and bow windows add dimension to your home by jutting out from the wall line. You can add a ledge or box seat on the interior to finish the look. Bay windows are more angular, whereas bows are curved. 
  • Casement: Casement windows are often installed over a kitchen sink or in bathrooms. They open left to right using a crank. 
  • Double-hung: Double-hung windows feature two moveable sashes to open both the top and bottom windowpanes. 
  • Garden: Garden windows protrude from your wall line but are not as large as bay or bow windows. They’re perfect for breakfast nooks or over the kitchen sink because they include a small ledge to grow plants or herbs. 
  • Glass block: Glass block windows are translucent, thick blocks of glass that allow light into the room but obscure the view. They’re common in basements, bathrooms and other areas where you want privacy. 
  • Picture: Picture windows are oversized so that you can take in the view. They don’t open, but they let in plenty of natural light. 
  • Shaped: Shaped windows let you add personal touches to your home. You can get them in round, half-round, eclipse and trapezoid shapes. 
  • Sliding: Sliding windows are as they sound. They can slide side to side on a track to let in fresh air. 

The only other popular window type many competitors offer that Champion doesn’t is awning. 

What materials does Champion use?

The company only sells windows made of vinyl. This material has its advantages, but many competitors offer a wider selection of window materials.

Window frames

Vinyl windows are a popular choice due to their durability and price. They’re low-maintenance, easy to install and long-lasting. They have UV-resistant properties that prevent rotting and corrosion and are highly energy-efficient. Vinyl window frames are airtight, so you won’t have to worry about air getting in and out. 

Window panels

Champion only sells double-panel windows, which is common in the industry today. Single-pane windows don’t offer much insulation, and triple-pane windows aren’t necessary if the glass has energy-efficient coatings. Champion’s argon gas-enhanced Comfort 365 Window glass filters out UV rays and keeps your room comfortable.  

Energy-efficiency features

The U.S. Department of Energy estimates that 25%–30% of your home’s heating and cooling energy usage is due to heat loss and gain through your windows. If your windows aren’t performing well, you see it on your electricity bill. 

Champion’s website lists several energy-efficiency features it includes in its design to help control your home’s temperature. Its windows are made with the following:

  • Airtight meeting rails: This cuts down on air leakage.
  • Foam-enhanced frames: Foam adds insulation and makes for a tighter seal. 
  • Insulated glass: The company’s proprietary low-emissivity (low-e) glass technology keeps heat from escaping in winter and entering your home in summer. 
  • Insulated pocket sills: These sills are built deeper than the standard to prevent drafts and improve security.
  • Triple weatherproofing: Heavy-duty weatherstripping reinforces insulations and helps keep water out. 
  • Weatherproof composite locking: This keeps moisture out by creating a weatherproof seal. 

With these energy-saving features plus an Energy Star certification, Champion’s windows are suitable for most climates and areas of your home.

How much do Champion’s windows cost?

We surveyed 1,500 window customers in October 2023 and learned that those who purchased Champion windows spent between an average of $7,738 and $28,825, depending on the number of windows purchased. The average price per window project size was as follows:

Number of WindowsAverage Cost Including Installation
1–5$7,738
6–10$15,492
11+$28,825

Your cost will vary depending on window type, materials and location. Customizing color, hardware, grid layout or other options will add to the cost, but the company’s average pricing aligns with what Home Depot lists as the cost of vinyl window installation. 

Champion offers a vague pricing guide online, giving its window styles one to four dollar signs signifying how expensive they are relative to each other. Glass block and picture windows are the cheapest. Garden, bow and bay windows are the priciest. 

The best way to see what your window project will cost is to start a free quote on Champion’s website. You can do this by scheduling an in-home or virtual consultation. Many window companies use this type of quote process because it’s difficult to give an accurate quote without measurements. 

An in-home quote will be the most accurate since a professional handles the measurements and observes your wall and window casing. If you’re comfortable doing the measurements yourself, a virtual consultation is quicker and more convenient. 

Does Champion offer financing options?

Champion’s site says that it offers low-interest financing options to fit virtually every budget, but it doesn’t specify what those are. The site also says that your estimate provider will walk you through your financing options and help you choose the right one. 

Several customer reviews say that payment plans were fair and helpful. If financing through Champion isn’t right for you, you can talk with your bank about a personal loan, home equity loan or Federal Housing Administration Rehab loan.

What is the installation process with Champion?

Champion’s window installation process is handled in-house from start to finish. The company doesn’t outsource installations to subcontractors, which simplifies communication and should minimize delays. 

Before installation, you’ll do all the planning. You’ll have a consultation, choose your windows, decide on payment and financing, and pick an installation date. Then comes installation day: 

1. Expectation-setting

The installation team will arrive at your scheduled time and explain the process to you. They’ll let you know how long the job should take and what they’ll need from you, and they should answer any questions you have. 

Plan to move furniture and take down anything on the wall near the windows. Also, plan to keep pets and children away from the job site. 

2. Site preparation

Champion cares about protecting your home, so in addition to wearing shoe coverings, they’ll lay down drop cloths to help protect your floors from construction debris and dirt. 

3. Window removal

The installation crew will remove your old windows and then inspect them for damage. This part of the process could include delays because the crew doesn’t know if there are any issues until they remove your old windows and see whether there’s any damage that needs correcting. The team will repair damage as needed.

4. Installation and sealing

The crew will then install your new windows, ensuring they fit perfectly and perform properly.  Installers will tightly seal the area around the window and replace the trim. 

5. Cleanup

Removing and installing windows is messy, but Champion’s installers will collect any debris and haul it away, including disposing of your old windows. They’ll clean up the work area and ensure they left it how they found it. 

6. Verification

Before leaving, a crew member will do a walk-through and final inspection with you. They’ll test each aspect of the windows, such as hardware and lifting and lowering. They’ll also clean the windows and show you how they work. Lastly, they’ll stick around for any questions you have. 

What are Champion’s warranty options?

A limited lifetime warranty backs all Champion products. This is standard warranty coverage for the industry. Champion doesn’t link its warranty on its site, so we can’t read the fine print. However, we do like that since Champion is a full-service company, you won’t have to deal with separate warranties for manufacturing and installation. 

The brand’s warranty is pretty comprehensive. It covers parts, materials, labor and every aspect of installation. The site guarantees, “If it breaks, we will fix it.” Coverage is transferable to new homeowners if you sell and includes broken glass, repairs, part replacement, materials, seal failure, screen repair and waste removal. You can get service for these issues by calling the customer care number or filling out the online form. 

Read your window warranty carefully — actions such as painting or drilling holes in your window typically void coverage. 

Champion vs. other window brands

It’s always a good idea to get multiple quotes from different window providers before signing a contract with a window company. Below, you can see how Champion stacks up against two of our other top window companies.

Champion Windows vs. Renewal by Andersen

Renewal by Andersen is well known for its selection of energy-efficient double- and triple-pane windows, which is one of the reasons it’s our top window brand. Its windows even earned it a Partner of the Year award from Energy Star in 2023. While the company does stand by its products with up to 20-year warranties on select windows, it only offers a two-year labor warranty. Champion Windows provides a limited lifetime warranty for labor, which is a compelling reason to choose Champion.

Champion Windows vs. Harvey Windows + Doors

Like Renewal by Andersen, Harvey Windows + Doors also offers the option for triple-pane windows. Plus, it has 11 window styles to choose from. While its selection is robust, Harvey only manufactures its products; you’ll need to work with a third-party contractor to handle installation. 

CategoryChampion WindowsRenewal by AndersenHarvey Windows + Doors
Our rating (out of 5)4.44.74.4
Average project price$12,171$10,252$9,603
Glass and hardware warrantyLimited lifetime10–20 years10–20 years
Labor warrantyLimited lifetimeTwo yearsN/A

Final take: Champion has limited window material variety but more energy-efficient features

Champion doesn’t offer as many material options as some competitors, but it provides highly durable and energy-efficient windows. We like the comprehensive warranty, thorough installation process and favorable customer reviews we found. 

Champion is a great choice for your home improvement project if you want budget-friendly and long-lasting vinyl replacement windows. However, if you want the warm aesthetic of wood or the durability of fiberglass, you won’t find that with Champion.

We suggest looking at warranty coverage and customer reviews for whichever window company you choose. You can start with Champion by getting a free quote. We also recommend getting quotes from a few companies so you can compare pricing and options. 

Our rating methodology for window companies

We research, review and rate window brands to help ensure you pick a window brand that meets your needs and fits your budget the next time you need to install new windows. Our research includes interviewing experts in the window industry, collecting data through proprietary surveys, reading hundreds of customer reviews on third-party websites and reviewing each brand’s website to gather as much information as possible about its services, products and warranties. 

We assess each window brand in four key areas:

  • Window options and installation services
  • Brand reputation and reviews
  • Energy-efficiency features
  • Warranties 

Read our full window methodology for more details and information on how we arrived at our conclusion of the best window brands.

BBB and Trustpilot scores are accurate as of March 2024.

Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics.

Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

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