Shopping for replacement windows can feel exhausting. Between assessing the quality of the windows, different prices on the market, and choosing the right window provider, you’re likely to feel overwhelmed.
JELD-WEN, one of the oldest American window replacement companies, is a provider that could make you feel better about your window purchase. Read our review of JELD-WEN’s services, cost, quality, materials, and much more to assess whether or not the company offers everything you need to feel excited about choosing it.
| Our Rating | 77 / 100 |
| Year Founded | 1960 |
| State Availability | All 50 states and the District of Columbia |
| Financing Options | Credit, customized payment plans |
| Energy-Efficient Products | Yes |
| Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
| Price Range | $350–$549 |
| BBB Rating | A+ |
JELD-WEN’s Pros & Cons
Pros
- Over 50 years of experience in the industry
- Windows feature high-quality Low-E insulated glass
- Offers demonstration and maintenance education
Cons
- Doesn’t offer free consultations
- Window prices vary wildly based on the store and location
Our Review of JELD-WEN
Total Score: 74 / 100 points
We consider JELD-WEN a top contender amongst window providers because of its wide selection of product offerings, customization options, lower prices, and energy efficiency options. We like that many of its windows are ENERGY STAR-certified and have Low-E glass coatings that can help you save money on energy bills.
Despite its many advantages, we don’t like that it offers limited warranty options and doesn’t always have the best customer reviews online. This signifies that you could receive inconsistent service depending on your location and an inferior warranty for your window products.
Product Offerings of JELD-WEN
Score: 37 / 40 points
Pros
JELD-WEN provides many NGBS Green Certified and ENERGY STAR-certified windows, making it a strong contender if you’re looking for energy-efficient options. Its windows feature high-quality Low-E insulated glass, which keeps your home warmer during winter and cooler during summer by optimizing visible light entering the house.
JELD-WEN offers over a dozen window product lines, giving you a lot of products to select from.
Cons
The company doesn’t manufacture garden windows or glass block windows.
Service Offerings of JELD-WEN
Score: 3 / 10 points
Pros
JELD-WEN offers demonstration and maintenance education to ensure you can care for and maintain your windows for decades. You can even find a free window guide on the company’s website to help determine which of its window selections are best for you.
Cons
The company lacks information about its professional contractors and installers on its website. It doesn’t offer free consultations, all-in-house contractors, or disposal of old windows and cleanup services.
Affordability of JELD-WEN
Score: 22 / 25 points
Pros
Double-pane windows, the most common residential window choice, cost around $1,200 on average. JELD-WEN’s average window cost falls between $350 and $549, making it a more affordable window provider. However, its prices can range from $200 to $4,000 depending on the window type, location, installation, and other factors.
Cons
The biggest con about JELD-WEN’s pricing is the lack of consistent pricing by store. Window costs vary per dealer and location, making it difficult to budget without getting a custom quote.
Warranty & Post-Installation Support of JELD-WEN
Score: 5 / 10 points
Pros
JELD-WEN offers limited warranty coverage on its product materials, including wood and metal-clad wood, composite, vinyl and metal-clad vinyl, and aluminum. Its vinyl options have a lifetime warranty if you continue to own and occupy the home.
Cons
The company offers a limited workmanship and installation warranty lasting less than five years, making it unimpressive compared to competitors’ warranties.
Company Reputation of JELD-WEN
Score: 10 / 15 points
Pros
Overall, JELD-WEN has a strong company reputation with its A+ BBB rating and over 50 years of experience in the industry.
Cons
The company has an overwhelming amount of poor customer reviews, lowering its overall company reputation.
How Much Do JELD-WEN’s Windows Cost?
JELD-WEN’s windows typically cost between $350 and $549, but prices vary dramatically based on the store, location, and dealer.
JELD-WEN’s website doesn’t have specific prices but lists the following breakdown to indicate the affordability of different types of window offerings:
- Builders Vinyl Windows: $
- Brickmould Vinyl: $
- DF Hybrid Vinyl: $
- Flat Casing Vinyl: $$
- W-2500 Clad-Wood: $$
- W-5500 Clad-Wood: $$
- Premium Atlantic Vinyl: $$
- Premium Vinyl: $$
- Auraline Composite: $$
- Custom Wood Windows: $$$
- Siteline Clad-Wood: $$$
- Epicvue Clad-Wood: $$$
JELD-WEN Financing
JELD-WEN is one of the more affordable window companies on the market, but it still offers multiple custom financing solutions to help you purchase windows in a pinch or invest in higher-quality windows for your dream home.
You can pay with cash or check if you purchase directly from a JELD-WEN location. The provider also offers online payments with credit and customized payment plans to alleviate financial stress.
Its windows are offered through various independent retailers and big-box stores, such as Home Depot, which can offer additional financing options. For example, if you purchase your JELD-WEN windows through Home Depot, you could apply for a Consumer Credit Card to finance your purchase.
What Types of Windows Does JELD-WEN Offer?
JELD-WEN offers a competitive number of window types. We’ve included a list of photos and details about JELD-WEN’s window products to help you explore your options.
Single-hung and Double-hung
These types of windows have a uniform, traditional look and open easily, allowing natural sunlight and fresh air into your home.
Casement
Casement windows are great for creating an unobstructed view and allowing plenty of fresh air into the home. They’re often placed above a tub and kitchen sink.
Sliding
Sliding windows open horizontally allowing you to open the window with one hand.
Fixed (Picture Windows)
These windows create a scenic view, “framing” the outdoors for your viewing pleasure.
Bay and Bow
Bay windows are a set of three windows, while bow windows are a set of four or five joined windows. Both create a cozy nook for the home.
Awning
Awning windows have hinges at the top, allowing them to open outward from the bottom. This feature allows you to open the windows even when it’s raining, without worrying about rain coming indoors.
What Materials Does JELD-WEN Use In Its Windows?
Every window material has its own pros and cons, from how energy-efficient the material is to the cost to the durability. JELD-WEN sells multiple window materials, giving it a wider variety than most window manufacturers, who typically offer only wood and vinyl.
- Wood
- Aluminum-clad wood
- Composite
- Vinyl
Wood
Wood is a classic window material preferred by many homeowners for its beautiful character. It’s highly versatile, can be painted or stained, and combined with specialized design specs, glass patterns, decorative details, color finishes, and more, which JELD-WEN offers in spades.
Aluminum-clad Wood
For homeowners looking for less maintenance but the beautiful look of wooden windows, consider wood-clad aluminum windows. They have a beautiful wood finish, color versatility, and durability but require less care.
Composite
JELD-WEN’s composite windows provide the beautiful look of wood with enhanced durability that lasts longer than vinyl. Composite blends structural fibers, like reclaimed wood fiber, with synthetic polymers and a co-extruded color to create a material that mimics wood but needs no painting. As a result, it’s twice as rigid as vinyl and less prone to sagging and warping.
Vinyl
Vinyl is an incredibly durable and weather-resistant material favored by many homeowners. It’s energy-efficient and budget-friendly because of its lower cost and the savings it provides.
How Energy-efficient Are JELD-WEN’s Windows?
JELD-WEN has been a proud partner of ENERGY STAR since 1998 and offers many window types that meet or exceed ENERGY STAR’s energy efficiency standards.
JELD-WEN also provides windows with reduced VOCs (volatile organic compounds) emissions, which are believed to lower the number of toxins emitted into the air during manufacturing and the window’s installation in your home.
Another aspect of JELD-WEN products is their Low-E tint, which affects UV rays coming into your home. A Low-E tint on your windows can improve your energy bills by encouraging heat from the outside to come in during cold temperatures and preventing heat transfer into your home during summer. Researchers have even found that Low-E tint saves homeowners an average of 29% on HVAC bills.
Overall, JELD-WEN has many window selections to help you improve your home’s energy efficiency, save on heating and cooling bills, and prevent faded furniture and carpets.
Soundproofing & Insulation of JELD-WEN
JELD-WEN products offer some options for better soundproofing and insulation.
The company recommends opting for dual-pane windows, which typically have an STC (Sound Transmission Class) between 25 and 27. Replacing a single-pane window could dampen the sound by as much as 40% in many residential areas. If you live in a noisy environment, look into some of JELD-WEN’s windows with a higher STC rating for even more soundproofing.
JELD-WEN Windows Series
JELD-WEN offers an extensive range of window series, with over a dozen options, including specialty customization options and many colors.
| Series | Exterior Colors | Interior Colors | Additional Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Custom Wood windows and EpicVue Clad-Wood Window | Bone White, Brilliant White, Ivory, French Vanilla, Heirloom White, Mocha Cream, Desert Sand, Silver, Smoke, Stone, Flagstone, Cocoa, Surf, Sea Foam, Hunter Green, Moss, Hartford Green, Cranberry, Mesa Red, Stormy, Admiral, Navy, Steele Gray, Dark Chocolate, Chestnut Bronze, Luxury Bronze, Black | Primed, Paint Brilliant White, Paint Ivory, Paint Desert Sand, Paint Black, Paint Dove, Paint Gunmetal, AuraLast Pine Walnut Finish, Knotty Alder Clear Lacquer Finish, Vertical-Grain Douglas Fir Clear Lacquer Finish, Reclaimed Douglas Fir Walnut Finish, Oak Kodiak Finish, Walnut Cordovan Finish, Cherry Fruitwood Finish | 9 wood variations available & 5 decorative glass options |
| Premium Vinyl (V-4500) Windows and Builders Vinyl (V-2500) Window | White, Desert Sand, Almond, Bronze, Black | White, Desert Sand, Almond | 3 woodgrain options, 5 framing options |
| W-2500 Clad-Wood Window | Black, Brilliant White, Chestnut Bronze, Desert Sand, French Vanilla, Hartford Green, Mesa Red | Perfect White, Brilliant White, Pure Ivory, Luxury Bronze, Rosemary, Gray Pearl, Gunmetal, Blackest Ink, Primed and Desert Sand | FiniShield Window Color Technology |
| Flat Casing Vinyl Window | White, Desert Sand | White, Desert Sand | Emulates American colonial wood windows |
| Builders Atlantic Aluminum Window | Bronze, White | Bronze, White | Low-maintenance materials |
| DF Hybrid Vinyl Window | White, Desert Sand | DF White, Commercial Brown, Pebble, Black, Slate | Minimal maintenance required |
| Auraline Composite Windows | White, Black, Chestnut Bronze (Coming Soon) | White, Black, Chestnut Bronze (Coming Soon) | Minimal maintenance required |
| Siteline Clad-Wood Windows | Bone White, Brilliant White, Ivory, French Vanilla, Heirloom White, Mocha Cream, Desert Sand, Silver, Smoke, Stone, Flagstone, Cocoa, Surf, Sea Foam, Hunter Green, Moss, Hartford Green, Cranberry, Mesa Red, Stormy, Admiral, Navy, Steele Gray, Dark Chocolate, Chestnut Bronze, Luxury Bronze, Black | Perfect White, Brilliant White, Pure Ivory, Desert Sand, Luxury Bronze, Rosemary, Gray Pearl, Gunmetal, Blackest Ink, Pimed | Designed to protect against wood-destroying insects, like termites, 7 interior finish options |
| Premium Atlantic Vinyl Window | White, Desert Sand | Bronze, Desert Sand, White | Versatile, low-maintenance design |
Does JELD-WEN Offer Window Customization?
Yes, JELD-WEN does offer window customization. You can customize your size, shape, hardware, grilles, and color.
JELD-WEN Consultation & Installation Process
This window company doesn’t provide free consultations, another factor to consider before choosing a local provider.
You can install JELD-WEN products yourself or hire a professional window installation technician. A detailed installation guide is provided with every JELD-WEN window, helping customers who want to DIY this home improvement project. Steps will vary depending on the specific product.
Alternatively, you can hire a contractor through JELD-WEN. However, remember that these are independent contractors, not in-house contractors, so the quality of the installation can vary. We recommend checking customer testimonials for your specific JELD-WEN dealer or location before deciding which route to take.
Does JELD-WEN Offer a Good Warranty?
JELD-WEN’s warranty varies by product, but most are covered with a limited warranty, which is less than ideal for homeowners. Its warranties don’t cover product failure, damage, or poor product performance due to normal wear and tear, improper installation, or exposure to chemicals and weather.
| Wood & Metal Clad Wood | Composite | Vinyl & Metal Clad Vinyl | Aluminum | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Product (single-family home) | 20 years | 10 years, but glass is covered for 20 years | Lifetime (if you continue to own and live in the home) | 10 years |
| Skilled labor coverage | 2 years | 2 years | 2 years | 1 year |
Overall, JELD-WEN is lacking when it comes to competitive warranties as many window providers offer lifetime warranties with their products, or more extensive coverage even within a limited lifetime warranty.
JELD-WEN Customer Reviews
Customer reviews are a critical part of choosing between different window providers.
After all, windows are a long-term investment that typically costs quite a bit and should last your home many decades if installed correctly and made from high-quality materials.
Positive Reviews of JELD-WEN
Positive reviews commonly noted speedy replacements, satisfaction with JELD-WEN’s installation process, and a decent warranty program.
Negative Reviews of JELD-WEN
Negative reviews typically focus on the quality of JELD-WEN’s windows and its poor customer service. We want to point out that the company has an A+ rating on the BBB, but it’s not accredited.
How Does JELD-WEN Compare to Its Competitors?
How does JELD-WEN compare to its numerous competitors in terms of pricing, customer ratings, warranties, and more? The following table provides insights into how it stacks up against other window industry leaders.
| Renewal by Andersen | Champion | Window Nation | Universal Windows Direct | Window World | Castle Windows | JELD-WEN | |
| Our Rating | 4.1 | 4.3 | 3.8 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 3.9 | 3.85 |
| Average Price Per Window | $1,200+ | $850+ | $550+ | $350+ | $550+ | $550+ | $350+ |
| Offers Custom Financing | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes | Yes |
| Warranty | 20-year glass/parts 10-year hardware 2-year installation | Limited Lifetime Warranty | Lifetime Plus Warranty | True Lifetime Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty | Lifetime Warranty | Limited Lifetime Warranty |
| BBB Rating | A+ | NR | NR | A | A+ | A+ | A+ |
*BBB ratings accurate as of April 2023
So, Is JELD-WEN Worth It for Your Home?
JELD-WEN’s windows are more affordable than most, but the company has poor customer reviews, which gives us pause. However, its product offerings and wide availability throughout the United States make it an accessible choice with many customization options for your home.
Before making your decision, we always recommend gathering several quotes from multiple reputable window companies, like Champion Windows and Renewal by Andersen, to help you assess your options, different price points, and more.
Still deciding if JELD-WEN is the window company for you? Here are some of the most frequently asked questions about this window provider.
FAQs About JELD-WEN Windows
Where Are JELD-WEN’s Windows Made?
JELD-WEN’s headquarters is in Charlotte, North Carolina. Its window and door products are manufactured in 117 manufacturing facilities across 19 countries globally.
Who Makes JELD-WEN’s Windows?
JELD-WEN manufactures its own windows. The company is one of the world’s most prominent window and door manufacturers based in America.
Can I Buy Directly From JELD-WEN?
You can’t buy directly from JELD-WEN because it’s a window manufacturer that sells exclusively to independent and national retailers and authorized dealers.
Methodology: How We Reviewed JELD-WEN
At Today’s Homeowner, we strive to bring you the most transparent, accurate information for your home improvement projects. Our window company ratings emphasize what matters most to you — a wide range of well-designed products with reliable installation and great curb appeal.
Our ratings are based on publicly available information about each company, secret shopping online and over the phone, customer-review analysis, and discussions with renovation and building experts. A company can earn a maximum of 100 points across five categories, converted to a five-star scale. We researched dozens of windows installation and replacement companies to develop the following formula:
- Product Offerings (30 points): Window installers can earn the maximum point value in this category if they offer a wide variety of window styles, frame materials, hardware designs, and glass and coating options. Companies earn more points if they design custom windows for your home. We also score the quality and energy efficiency of the windows each company installs.
- Service Offerings (10 points): When evaluating this category, we consider factors such as consultations, post-installation cleanup, and additional product offerings. We also look at each company's installation team structure – including whether it uses certified window installers or subcontractors to complete work – as this can cause variances in quality.
- Affordability (25 points): Our affordability rating considers the provider’s average window prices and how they align with industry averages, as well as discounts and payment plans.
- Warranty and Support (20 points): A best-in-class window installer will back up its work with a solid warranty to give you added peace of mind. Companies receive the maximum point value in this category if they offer lifetime warranties for their products and workmanship.
- Company Reputation (15 points): To ensure we’re recommending worthwhile installers, we check each company’s reputation and standing with the Better Business Bureau (BBB). We also consider how many years of experience it has in the window industry.
We monitor company data on an ongoing basis to keep rankings and information up to date.
