Replacement Window Buying Guide

If you’re planning to replace some or all of your home’s windows in 2022, factor in a potentially long wait time. Supply-chain issues that have plagued so many businesses have also hit companies that manufacture and install replacement windows.

Expect your project to take 3 to 5 months from the time you sign the contract until your windows are installed, says Chad Kleis, vice president of sales at Window World, a manufacturer and installer based in Wilkesboro, N.C. “It will be into 2023 until we see project timelines back to 8 to 10 weeks, which is more typical for our business," he says.

What do you get for your patience? Well, new windows are likely to make your home quieter and less drafty—in short, more comfortable. Many new double-hung windows are now easier to clean and maintain than older windows with combination screens and storm windows. They also can enhance your home’s all-important curb appeal.

Use this buying guide to learn about replacement window materials, types, and features; budget-related considerations; and how to find a capable installer. Also check out our replacement windows ratings, based on our scientific testing, to help you choose the right product.

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What You'll Find on the Market

Value-conscious consumers are no longer captive to standard, fat white synthetic frames that scream “replacement window.” To satisfy buyers on a budget who want a wood look, some manufacturers are creating vinyl windows with wood laminate finishes. They’re also making composite frames—some made of fiberglass, others a combination of wood and plastic. At the same time, costly solid wood windows are becoming a niche market.

New colors, especially for the exterior portion of the window, are offering more design options. Anthony Carrino, vice president of design at Welcome Homes, an online design-build company based in New York City, says he's seeing more replacement windows with black exterior frames. “Utilizing black to make your windows pop off your facade adds both depth and visual interest,” he says.

Another trend: installing windows without muntins, the vertical and horizontal grids that make a full pane of glass look like it’s split into sections, Colonial-style. “Homeowners are definitely looking to maximize glass area and gain a more contemporary look,” Kleis says. “This gives the customer an open feel with lots of character.”