Best Replacement Windows of 2024
Wind- and rain-resistance tests reveal winners from American Craftsman, Andersen, Jeld-Wen, Marvin, Pella, Preservation, and Reliabilt
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The best replacement windows keep out noise and the elements while letting in maximum light. They’re easy to open and clean. And they’re energy-efficient, saving you money on utility bills.
But replacement windows get costly quickly. Even the least costly models will set you back several hundred dollars apiece, plus installation.
So if you’re going to spend that kind of money, make sure you’re buying high-quality windows. Consumer Reports tests wood, vinyl, and composite replacement windows from brands that include American Craftsman, Anderson, Atrium, Jeld-Wen, Marvin, Pella, Simonton, and others. We evaluate each window on its resistance to both wind and rain, which is critical to keeping your home draft-free and dry. Below is some general information about replacement windows, followed by the top-scoring windows we tested in each category.
Types of Replacement Windows
There are two main types of replacement windows, and the type to get depends on the condition of your existing window frames and your taste.
Best Vinyl Replacement Windows
Vinyl windows make up the largest segment of the replacement window market. They don’t need to be painted or stained, but you’ll probably find fewer options when choosing colors and hardware.
Best Wood Replacement Windows
Most wood window frames are made of solid wood covered on the outside with another material for protection from the elements. They’re generally the most expensive type of window, available with many finish and hardware options.
Best Composite Replacement Windows
Typically made of wood fiber and a thermoplastic resin, composite windows look more like wood than vinyl windows do, and they generally cost less than solid wood windows.
How CR Tests Replacement Windows
For our tests, we order 3x5-foot double-hung windows from a variety of manufacturers. Our previous window testing has shown that most windows stand up to simulated aging; we now focus instead on how well a window can withstand the elements.
After installing each window in a wooden frame, test engineers seal one side and rig a specially made device that simulates wind. They raise the airflow velocity to 25 mph and then 50 mph and measure air leakage with a flow meter. They run this test at 0° F and 70° F to evaluate whether the frames hold up even as materials contract and expand at varied temperatures.
To test rain resistance, we simulate windblown rain by pelting the window with 5 gallons of water per square foot per hour. Windows that earn an excellent rating in this test can withstand simulated winds up to 74 mph, or gale-force winds. The worst windows leaked at about 35 mph.
Another important takeaway: Our tests have found that even within the same brand of replacement windows, not all lines perform the same.
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