If you aren't sure which type of windows are best for you, this guide should help. We offer some of the top performing windows in each category (vinyl, wood, and composite). We've evaluated those windows under each of the following criteria:

1. Energy efficiency: For many people this is the most important factor in determining which the window is best for their home.  (We used U-values of the best performing windows in each class to determine our ratings)
2. Lowest initial cost: Depending on which options are looking for, window prices can vary significantly.
3. Warranty: If you plan on staying in your house for a long time, an excellent warranty is something to strongly consider. (we evaluated by length and overall component coverage in our ratings)
4. Ease of maintenance: Some people don't mind a little maintenance for windows they love, while others prefer the lowest maintenance options.  (ex:Lubrication of balances, staining, painting and cleaning etc.)
5. Wood or wood-like Interior: If you have a lot of interior woodwork that you are not ready to part with, some wood, composite and vinyl windows offer beautiful interior options.

Keep in mind this is a ranking of the best available windows in each category.  There there are many low-quality, builder grade windows that would not meet these standards.

Wood windows are great option for homeowners who must have a solid wood interior that offers the flexibility to change paint or stain color in the future.  Wood windows generally don't offer the highest performing energy efficiency or the longest and most inclusive warranties.

1. Energy efficiency:
2. Lowest initial cost:
3. Warranty:
4. Ease of maintenance:
5. Wood or wood-like Interior:

For more information about wood windows we offer:

Top quality vinyl windows are the most energy-efficient, require the least maintenance, and have the longest and most inclusive warranties.  Although some excellent interior wood options are available, they do not offer the flexibility to paint or stain in the future.

1. Energy efficiency:
2. Lowest initial cost:
3. Warranty:
4. Ease of maintenance:
5. Wood or wood-like Interior:

For more information about vinyl windows we offer:

Composite windows offer the flexibility to paint and even sometimes stain the interior. They are generally molded to look much like a real wood window. However, they do not offer the energy efficiency, or long-term warranties of the highest performing vinyl windows.

1. Energy efficiency:
2. Lowest initial cost:
3. Warranty:
4. Ease of maintenance:
5. Wood or wood-like Interior:

For more information about composite windows we offer: