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Home : Review Topics : Cheap Replacement Windows
Cheap Replacement Windows And Consumer Picks
By cheap replacement windows, we are not necessarily referring to the quality - these are our five selections for budget replacement windows that will perform fine and won't break the bank. These selections are ideal if money is really tight or if you want to replace windows, but don’t plan on sticking around more than 12 or so years.
My Take On This Company: Cost conscious consumers should take extra caution to find a reputable window installer who doesn't take shortcuts and will properly square up, seal and caulk the windows for the best energy efficiency and long term value. Typically, I always recommend that consumers stretch into a mid range vinyl window option for better long term value.
(Always Get 3 to 4 Local Price Quotes)
Dane - Site Editor
Original Publish Date - August 15, 2013
Page Last Updated On October 4, 2024
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dane@replacementwindowsreviews.co
List Of Cheap Replacement Windows
This is my list of cheap windows that still offers decent value to homeowners. Happy window hunting!
Dane - Site Editor
Soft-Lite Barrington Series
This is the Pennsylvania based company's entry level window and probably the only series from Soft-Lite that I would say isn’t great. Still, the Barrington is a well made unit that delivers roughly a .10 air infiltration rating on the double hung, which is still quite respectable. This window is not available through big box stores so you will definitely need to buy this through a Soft-Lite window dealer, which are available in many of the midwest, northeast and Atlantic states.
Reliabilt 3500 Series
The Reliabilt 3500 series is a vinyl double hung and is the rebranded Atrium 8700 window. This is Reliabilt's top of the line replacement window and comes standard with a lifetime warranty on parts, glass and the vinyl frame. The 3500 comes in white, almond or bronze, comes with an aluminum sash reinforcement, 3 grid options and has a DP35 rating. Expect slightly better (or lower) performance numbers than the 3301 model. Read more Reliabilt reviews.
» More On Reliabilt 3500 Price
Sunrise Essentials Series
The Essentials series is Sunrise's budget window. It has a pretty good glass package, with an AI of 0.10 and U-Value of 0.30. Instead of the extrusions and sash design used in other Sunrise lines, it uses less durable versions to save costs. The colors are limited and it only comes in a double hung, slider, and picture style. It does okay in smaller opening or when you are on a strict budget, but most home owners would be happier with a Standard Sunrise for not much more.
» More On Sunrise Essentials Pricing
Simonton 5050 Or Asure Series
Technically these are two different series, but they are very close to one another. The 5050 and Asure are decent entry level windows. Simonton tends to make a bulkier vinyl window than most, which means less glass, but it also means better performance data and overall strength. All in all, a decent option for budget minded consumers. The 5050 was largely replaced by the Simonton Assure Series in 2012 (although price quotes on the 5050 series still come up). See more on Simonton windows prices.
» More On Simonton Reflections 5050 Prices
Milgard StyleLine Series
Milgard's StyleLine is a thinner framed, more modern looking window with uneven sightlines and more glass than the Tuscany. It doesn't have a vent lock or weep hole covers, and features an elevated locking mechanism. It is less expensive than the Milgard Tuscany (about 10%), largely because the increased glass makes it less energy efficient. While not a world beater, the Styleline has okay performance numbers that will serve you well when combined with good quality installation. Milgard is a west half of the country company and the Styleline is doable for anyone living in relatively mild climates.
» More On Milgard StyleLine Costs
Ply Gem Pro Series
Slightly better than the Contractor, the Ply Gem Pro is a mid grade window but is still designed for the bargain hunter. A painted cellular PVC, is used to be called the Grandview 4000 and was made by Great Lakes. With a stainless steel spacer, is has a 25 year transferable warranty, but that does not include coverage for glass breakage. Although it doesn't have a reinforced sash like the Premium Series, is has fairly respectable numbers with an R-Value of 3.45, AI of 0.19, U-factor of 0.29, SHGC of 0.27 and DP30.
» More On Ply Gem Pro Prices
Alright, so those are our picks for the best cheap replacement windows. If you like this page and you’re in the market for windows, we have a free form on our site for 3 quality window price quotes. We will help you answer any project questions and help sort through any project bids to help you get the very best window at the very best price. That is our personal guarantee to you.
Low Cost Replacement Windows
Hello Dane, my name is Andy, and I'm a 24-year old homeowner in Indianapolis, IN a few years out of college looking for some window advice! I'm looking to get some low cost replacement windows on my 20-25 year old, entry-level house. I've done a lot of research around windows as I've been looking at replacing them and am having a hard time deciding which route to go. I took a look at your worst window brands, but obviously I'd like to avoid those.
I really like the look and reliability of the budget-level Andersen windows, but, being an entry-level house, I feel like getting any Andersen windows would be a bit like putting a V8 engine in a Toyota Corolla.
For my priorities in a window, first and foremost, I'm looking for a low cost reliable window that won't give me any issues when installed correctly. I'd also prefer something on the cheaper side, though I'd rather pay more if it meant a more reliable window. Energy efficient windows are a plus, but not important enough to dramatically sacrifice on budget or brightness. Finally, again, being in an entry level neighborhood, style isn't really an important factor unless it comes with the added benefit of reliability or budget.
Do you have any recommendations on what type, window brand, style, etc. of window would best fit what I'm looking for? Thank you.
Andy - Homeowner - from 2023
[Site Editor's Answer]
Andy, I might recommend sticking with the good vinyl windows list.
Dane - Site Editor - from 2023
Homeowner's Take On Cheap Replacement Windows
I see a lot about expensive brands, but the bargain windows aren't talked about as much. The Amsco windows I found were poorly made, had lousy warranties, and were just horrible. I wouldn't recommend them to anyone, it's best to just stay away. Amsco's warranty doesn't cover labor and has so many exclusions it's a joke.
Pella Thermastar and all of the Jeld Wen windows only have a one year warranty, which means it expires before you've really had a chance to see the window in all weathers. Value and Malibu are really poorly made, both materials and design are cheap.
Todd - Homeowner - from 2009
An Installer's Take
While I never recommend buying cheap windows for a house, I certainly understand your situation. So of all the brands you mentioned, I'll say the Milgard and Ply Gem are better options than the Reliabilt and Jeld Wen. And if I had to rank them, I would do it in the same order they are mentioned, with the Milgard being the best and the Jeld Wen being at the bottom of the list.
The biggest issue I see with lower end vinyl windows is that the homeowner also scrim on installation, which is almost more important with a low end product.
If you get reliable installation, then you can probably put in a Reliabilt 3301 and not have any issues with it for many years, especially if it isn't being used super often. I have a Silverline 9500 window in my house that I installed 8 years ago and have never had any issues with and lets be honest it's not the best built product out there.
Joey - Installer - 2012
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