If you live in the Midwest, you may have heard of Menards. In business for nearly seven decades, Menards is a popular home improvement store with over 350 locations scattered across more than a dozen states. So, if it’s finally time to replace your windows and you live in or around America’s Heartland, visiting Menards could be worth your while.
But before you commit to buying windows from Menards, you should do some homework. Read our review of Menards’ windows to see what to expect from the company.
In your continued research, check out some of our top rated window companies.
| Our Rating | 78.5 / 100 |
| Year Founded | 1958 |
| State Availability | Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Michigan, Minnesota, Missouri, Nebraska, North Dakota, Ohio, South Dakota, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming |
| Financing Options | Yes |
| Energy-Efficient Products | Yes |
| Warranty | 20-year product coverage 2-year labor coverage |
| Price Range | $550+ |
| BBB Rating | F, Not Accredited |
Menards Windows Pros & Cons
Pros
- In business for nearly 70 years
- Prices for its products are available online
- Provides additional products besides windows
Cons
- Stores are only located in the Midwest
- Not accredited with the BBB
Our Review of Menards
Total Score: 78.5 / 100 points
A family-owned company established in 1958, Menards has been helping customers with their home improvement needs for nearly 70 years. The company aims to keep home improvement projects accessible by providing products at lower costs. Menards has a range of window styles available and offers ENERGY STAR-certified products. So, if you’re looking for energy-efficient replacement windows at a relatively low price point, Menards is a contender.
While many aspects of the company make it great, Menards is not without its faults. Menards provides little support to customers purchasing windows, which can be a drawback if you need help with your investment.
Product Offerings of Menards
Score: 39 / 40 points
What we like
Menards has a solid variety of window styles on offer. Among those styles is barn sash windows. As many other companies don’t offer a barn sash style, Menards can be a good resource if you want to replace the windows on your garage or shed in addition to your home.
What we don’t like
Tinted glass isn’t an option for windows provided by Menards. If you desire the added privacy or UV protection that tinted windows can offer, you’ll need to check with other providers.
Service Offerings of Menards
Score: 2 / 10
What we like
In addition to a selection of windows, Menards provides doors. This can be great if you’re looking to give your home’s exterior a full face-lift — you can shop in one place for all your exterior renovation needs.
What we don’t like
The main downside to the service offerings of Menards is that the company provides very little customer support. With no consultation services, disposal services, maintenance education, or certified installers, homeowners who need help with their window purchase will have trouble.
Affordability of Menards Windows
Score: 23 / 25
What we like
While Menards windows aren’t the least expensive on the market, the company offers discounts and financing options. We like that its pricing is transparent and easily available online. Therefore, if you want to roughly calculate the price of your project before talking with a sales representative, Menards is a great option.
What we don’t like
If you’re on a strict budget, Menards isn’t as competitive as some other providers with its pricing. While its prices may fluctuate due to discounts, less expensive options are available if you want something more affordable.
Warranty & Post-installation Support of Menards
Score: 5 / 10
What we like
There is a 20-year warranty available for most windows. This warranty is transferable, with exceptions, and includes two years of coverage for any defects resulting from workmanship. If you have an issue with your product within the warranty period, repair, replacement, or a refund is offered.
What we don’t like
Warranties for the windows sold by Menards are solely managed through the window manufacturing companies, which may result in communication difficulties. There are also exceptions to the general warranties depending on the product you buy, which can be confusing and complicated.
Company Reputation of Menards
Score: 9.5 / 15
What we like
Menards is a well-established family-owned business that has provided affordable options for home improvement needs since 1958. With over 300 storefronts in over a dozen states, Menards has a foothold in the home improvement industry.
What we don’t like
Many consider the Better Business Bureau (BBB) the most trustworthy standard for real customer reviews. Menards is not accredited with the BBB, meaning it hasn’t met objective standards for customer service, like resolving complaints. If customer satisfaction is paramount, Menards being in bad standing with the BBB is not something you’ll like.
How Much Does Menards Cost?
Menards’ windows come in a wide range of prices. While some prefabricated options cost as little as about $40, others cost up to approximately $1,300. Menards also offers custom windows, which can cause variations in pricing. If you opt for custom windows, you can expect to pay more than what “standard” windows cost.
While the company does host annual sale events that offer big savings, you may be eligible for a Federal Tax Credit. Customers who purchase new energy-efficient windows can qualify for a 30% tax credit, up to $600.
Menards Financing
As of April 2023, Menards offers two financing options. The first is a six-month no-interest option if the balance is paid in full within six months. Any remaining balance will be charged interest at a variable rate of 29.74%.
The second financing option is a 48-month equal payment option with an interest rate of 3.99%. This is available for purchases over $1,500. Any balance unpaid is subject to the same interest rate of 29.74% after 48 months.
What Types of Windows Does Menards Offer?
Awning
Also known as hopper windows, awning-style windows are hinged at the top. When open, they allow airflow and provide protection from the elements.
Barn Sash
These windows are single-sash and inoperable. They’re generally used on a barn or shed to allow daylight but don’t provide airflow.
Bay and Bow
These windows are architectural — they create a nook as they protrude past the home’s exterior. While bay windows have three panels, bow windows have four.
Casement
Hinged on the sides, casement windows are easy to use. They can be opened fully, allowing for maximum airflow.
Double-hung
The most popular style of residential window, double-hung windows, have two sashes that slide up and down, allowing you to open the window from the top or bottom.
Garden
This window is a popular feature in kitchens. A garden window is a small specialty window with a large ledge that protrudes from the house, creating a miniature greenhouse perfect for plant lovers.
Picture
These windows are often fixed, meaning they don’t open. Picture windows are great for homeowners who want a more expansive view from their homes.
Single-hung
Similar to a double-hung window, these windows feature a sash that slides up and down. With single-hung windows, one sash moves, meaning you can only open them from the bottom.
Slider
These windows open horizontally and are set in a track along the top and bottom of the window’s frame.
Specialty
These windows generally come in a unique shape designed to complement the architectural details of your home.
What Materials Does Menards Use In Its Windows?
Menards distributes windows from multiple manufacturers. These manufacturers use the following materials in their windows:
- Aluminum
- Vinyl
- Wood
Aluminum
Aluminum windows are extremely durable. Aluminum or aluminum-clad windows can withstand tough weather, which is a great benefit if you want a long-lasting window product.
Vinyl
Vinyl windows are extremely affordable, low maintenance, and energy-efficient. If you want to replace your windows on a budget with a product that will save you money long-term, vinyl is a great choice.
Wood
Wood is a durable choice when it comes to window material. It’s a natural insulator, meaning installing wood windows can help lower your heating and cooling costs.
Are Menards’ Windows Energy-efficient?
Heat gain and loss through your windows can account for about 30% of your heating and cooling energy use. If you want to lower your carbon footprint and utility costs, upgrading your windows is a good way to do it. However, it’s important to upgrade to an energy-efficient window product.
Menards offers a selection of ENERGY STAR-rated windows and provides products that have a Low-E coating. If you purchase your windows from Menards, you can be sure you’re getting an energy-efficient product.
Soundproofing & Insulation of Menards’ Windows
Some of the windows that Menards distributes have a double-pane option. The air pocket between panes is naturally insulating and can also provide a buffer for outside noise. If you opt for double-pane windows, the insulating qualities will be better than that of single-pane windows.
However, if you’re looking for window options that provide superior soundproof qualities, you’ll likely need to work with a specialty provider. Ensuring proper installation can make a big difference if you want to make the most of the natural insulating qualities of standard windows from Menards.
What are Menards’ Windows Series?
Menards distributes windows from multiple manufacturers, including brands like JELD-WEN and Crestline. Depending on the unique features of your home and window replacement project, one brand may serve you better than another. Below, you’ll find more information about the JELD-WEN and Crestline windows at Menards.
| Series | Types | Materials | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| JELD-WEN Builders | Bay & Bow, Double-hung, Specialty, Single-hung, Sliding | Vinyl | Customers who want low maintenance and energy-efficient windows at a low price point |
| JELD-WEN Premium | Awning, Casement, Picture, Single-hung, Sliding | Vinyl | Customers looking for windows that will stand up to harsh weather conditions |
| JELD-WEN W-5500 | Awning, Bay, Casement, Double-hung, Picture, Sliding, Specialty | Aluminum-clad Wood | Customers searching for classic styling with superior thermal performance |
| Crestline Quick | Casement, Double-hung, Single-hung, Slider | Vinyl | Customers who want an affordable, prefabricated option |
| Crestline Elite | Awning, Casement, Double-hung, Sliding, Specialty | Aluminum-clad Wood | Customers who want customizable windows that offer durability and energy efficiency |
Does Menards Offer Window Customization?
In short, yes. Menards offers windows that come with a variety of customizable options. Depending on the brand of window you purchase from Menards, there may be more customizable options, but each brand offers some form of customizable feature, whether it’s size, color, grille, or glass. To find out what custom options are available for your specific project, you can visit the Menards website or go to your local Menards.
What is Menards’ Consultation & Installation Process?
Unlike most competitors, Menards doesn’t provide any consultation for window buying. However, the company does provide a detailed window buying guide on its website.
Once you’ve decided on what windows you’ll purchase, you’ll need to remove the old windows and have the new ones installed. Though Menards doesn’t offer installation of its window products, its team can connect you with trusted resources for window installation. If you purchase your windows from Menards, ask for contractor information.
If you’re curious about installing your own windows, the company has an extensive online library of videos with DIY window installation tutorials. While it’s possible to install your own windows, we recommend hiring someone for the installation process if you’ve got more than a couple to replace.
Does Menards Offer a Good Warranty?
Warranties for the windows Menards distributes are manufacturers’ warranties. Menards doesn’t offer any additional warranty, so the warranty can vary depending on the manufacturer.
While most manufacturers offer a 20-year warranty, they come with limitations and exclusions. Furthermore, since the manufacturers provide the warranty and not Menards, issues with your windows may be hard to resolve. Though most companies are good about honoring warranties, communication may get complicated, as it’s with a third party.
What Are the Customer Reviews for Menards?
Customer reviews can provide great insight into working with a company. We dove into what customers are saying across multiple platforms to learn more.
Positive Reviews of Menards
Some reviews indicate a positive experience with staff in real-time, noting that employees are helpful and knowledgeable.
Negative Reviews of Menards
Customers are unhappy with the lack of customer service from Menards, citing difficulty with communication and delivery of purchases.
How Do Menards’ Windows Compare to Its Competitors’?
Menards is one of many companies you can choose for your new construction project or window replacement needs. See how it compares to some of the best window replacement companies below:
| Renewal by Andersen | Champion | Window Nation | Universal Windows Direct | Window World | Menards | |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Our Rating | 4.1 | 4.3 | 3.8 | 4.2 | 4.3 | 3.9 |
| Average Price Per Window | $1,200+ | $850+ | $550+ | $350+ | $550+ | $550+ |
| Offers Custom Financing | 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 | Variable Manufacturer’s Warranty |
| BBB Rating | A+ | NR | NR | A | A+ | F |
*BBB ratings accurate as of June 2023
So, Are Menards Windows Worth It for Your Home?
Menards is a solid choice if you’re on a budget and have enough know-how to navigate the buying process independently. We like that Menards displays pricing for its products online, making it easier to estimate the cost of your project. However, the variable warranties and lack of customer support can be major drawbacks if you’re looking for an all-inclusive company.
We recommend contacting a few providers and getting multiple quotes if you need new windows. Other companies, like Renewal by Anderson and Champion, may have advantages or perks that better align with your home and needs.
FAQs About Menards Windows
Does Menards Sell and Install Windows?
Menards does sell and distribute windows. However, installing windows is not a service the company offers.
Where Is Menards’ Headquarters?
Menards’ headquarters is in Eau Claire, Wisconsin, though it has locations throughout 15 other states.
Who Owns Menards?
John Robert Menard Jr. is the founder and owner of Menards. Originally opened as a single storefront, the company has steadily grown to become one of the largest home improvement stores in the United States.
Methodology: How We Rank Window Companies
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.
