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Starting as a single roadside stand in 1995, Window World has grown to be the largest replacement window[1] and exterior remodel companies in the United States. With over 200 franchise locations across 48 states, they sell over a million windows every year. Along with windows, they supply entry doors, garage doors, exterior siding and more. Being most well-known for their windows, they offer a diverse range of window styles[2] that are custom made and installed as part of a complete package. Window World has been criticized in the past for their marketing claims that each window costs $189 installed, when they actually cost anywhere from $250 to upwards of $2,000 depending on the type of window, size of the window[3] and the cost of labor where the store is located. They also have lower customer ratings than some of their competitors[4]. However, their windows are high quality and remain competitively priced. Overall, Window World provides an excellent value for custom made and professionally installed vinyl windows, along with a variety of other exterior remodel products.
Pros
- Affordable
- Well insulated windows with several Energy Star certified window packages
- Large selection of window types and exterior remodel products
Cons
- Vinyl windows only
- Must use Window World installers
- Windows may cost more than advertised
In-Home Estimate Available
Yes
Installation Warranty
Lifetime
Table of Content
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Window World at a Glance
Window World offers a wide range of window styles to choose from, including:
- Double hung windows[5]: $250 to $575
- Casement windows: $275 to $1,000
- Picture windows: $300 to $925
- Sliding windows: $500 to $900
- Bay and bow windows: $750 to $1,500
- Garden windows: $950 to $2,100
All of their windows are manufactured by Alside and MI windows before Window World tailors them to the specific dimensions of the customers window openings. Both Alside and MI windows are leading manufacturers of vinyl replacement windows in the U.S., with reputations for quality materials and craftsmanship.
The windows are well-insulated, being made of double paned glass[6] with argon gas inserted in between the panes. In addition, Window World is partnered with Energy Star and offers several Energy Star Certified window packages that can reduce your annual energy bill by an average of 12% compared to uncertified products.
Along with Energy Star partnership and certification, Window World has received accolades and accreditations from various third party testing agencies, including:
- The Good Housekeeping Institute (GHI)
- The Better Business Bureau (BBB)
- The National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC)
- ASTM
Since 2018, the consumer research and analytics firm, J.D. Power, has given consistently high rankings to Window World in their annual U.S. Windows and Doors Satisfaction Study. In their 2018 report they said, Window World ranks highest in customer satisfaction among window and patio door[7] retailers and performs particularly well in price.
Despite the praise they receive for affordability, their average window prices generally fall within the median range of their competitors. The cost for each window largely depends on the type of window and the cost of living in the area the franchise store is located. To get a precise figure for each window, Window World offers free in-home estimates and virtual consultations.
Window World State Availability
Window World is a franchise with over 200 stores throughout the U.S., with locations in every state except Alaska and Montana.
Other Benefits
Along with windows, Window World sells several other exterior remodel products such as:
- Entry doors
- Patio doors
- Garage doors[8]
- Storm doors
- Shutters
- Exterior siding
- Impact windows
For those that cant afford to purchase their products outright, Window World has a financing option that allows you to apply for a line of credit through Wells Fargo bank. As a revolving line of credit, it can be used for both immediate and future purchases. The application process can be done in-person or online, with the online application being capable of generating a financing decision within minutes.
Fine Print
Window Worlds provides a limited lifetime warranty on the following parts and components:
- Vinyl parts: Guarantees that the vinyl wont peel, blister, rot or corrode under normal use.
- Mechanical window parts: Any defective mechanical parts of the window (locks, latches, etc.) will be replaced at no cost.
- Insulated glass unit: The space between the window panes is guaranteed to be without any defects resulting in obstructed vision from moisture or dust.
- Transferable warranty: Window Worlds warranty coverage will transfer to the subsequent homeowner if you sell your home.
- Broken glass: Some franchise stores will replace the glass panel and sash if the window accidentally breaks.
- Labor warranty: Some franchise stores will cover the cost of labor to replace or repair any of the parts and components covered under its warranty.
Window World windows are made exclusively with vinyl window frames, which comes with a set of advantages and disadvantages. Among the advantages, vinyl windows are affordable, relatively durable, require virtually zero maintenance and often come with a lifetime guarantee as they do with Window World. The main disadvantage is that vinyl frames cant be repainted if you ever have the desire to change their appearance.
The windows are not sold separately, but as part of a package that includes installation. While that can be convenient, that limits your ability to choose an installation contractor and eliminates the possibility of installing the windows yourself.
How Window World Stacks Up
Is Window World Right for You?
Window World is an affordable option for custom made, high-quality and energy-efficient windows that are professionally installed. However, because their windows are within the median price range of competitors, you may be able to find more affordable windows elsewhere. Additionally, prices can vary between stores, so shop around before settling on Window World.
Because installation is included with their window package, they may not be the ideal choice if you want to install the windows yourself or choose your own contractor to install them for you. They may also not be the best fit if you want a window framing material other than vinyl.
If you cant afford to purchase their windows or exterior remodel products outright, their financing option can make their offerings more financially accessible. The revolving line of credit can also be used for future purchases or additional products which can be desirable if youre doing a comprehensive exterior remodel.
Methodology
To determine the best window installation company ranking, the Forbes Home Improvement editorial team analyzed third-party data on nearly a dozen major companies, with each companys star rating determined by evaluating a variety of metrics, including:
- Customer rating (20%)
- States serviced (20%)
- In-home estimates available (15%)
- Installation and material warranty (15%)
- Financing options (15%)
- Other accreditations (10%)
- BBB accreditation (5%)
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
What brand of windows does Window World use?
Window World windows uses Alside and MI brand windows. Both companies are among the largest manufacturers of windows in the country and are all assembled in the United States.
How long do Window World windows last?
Window World windows last an average of 20 to 40 years depending on the weather conditions in your area. Window Worlds warranty covers any manufacturer defects in the vinyl, mechanical parts and insulated glass unit for life.
How much do windows actually cost?
Despite their advertising claims that their windows are $189 installed, each window can cost between $250 and $2,000 based on the type and size of window along with the cost of labor in the area where you live.
Are Window World windows insulated?
Window World windows are made of double-pane glass with argon gas inserted between the panes for insulation. Additionally, Window World has several Energy Star Certified window packages that have been independently verified to meet or exceed the EPAs energy efficiency guidelines.
References
- ^ replacement window (www.forbes.com)
- ^ window styles (www.forbes.com)
- ^ size of the window (www.forbes.com)
- ^ their competitors (www.forbes.com)
- ^ Double hung windows (www.forbes.com)
- ^ double paned glass (www.forbes.com)
- ^ patio door (www.forbes.com)
- ^ Garage doors (www.forbes.com)
- ^ Get Free Estimates (mktp.cc)
- ^ Privacy Policy (www.forbes.com)
