The Best Rated Windows for a House
Installing energy-efficient windows can save money in the long run. Because of the cost of the windows, however, it can be a while before a homeowner realizes the savings. Whether building a new home or replacing existing windows, it pays to know which windows have the best ratings. Consumer Reports found that wood and fiberglass windows rated higher than vinyl. Here are the top-rated windows, according to Consumer Reports: Does this Spark an idea?
Marvin Clad
According to Market Resource Associates and Consumer Reports, Marvin Clad has some of the best windows on the market. The company offers wood, clad-wood and composite windows. The Marvin Clad Ultimate, a clad-wood window, rated "excellent" in wind resistance, rain resistance and durability.
Andersen
Andersen sells double-hung and casement-style windows in wood, vinyl, clad-wood and composite construction. It also sells vinyl windows under the brand name, American Craftsman. According to Consumer Reports, the Andersen 400 Series Tilt Wash, a clad-wood window, rated "excellent" in wind resistance and rain resistance and "very good" in durability.
Pella
Pella offers double-hung and casement windows in wood, vinyl, and clad-wood. It also sells aluminum construction windows. According to Consumer Reports, the company's Proline window, which is clad-wood, rated "excellent" in wind resistance and "very good" in rain resistance and durability.
Peachtree
Peachtree markets windows under various brand names, including Peachtree, Crestline and Weathershield. Double-hung and casement windows are available, and the product line includes wood, vinyl, clad-wood and composite construction. Consumer Reports rated Peachtree's 500 Series (which is clad-wood) as "excellent" in wind resistance, in keeping out 25 mph winds when the temperature is 70 degrees Fahrenheit. The window rated "very good" at keeping out winds of 25 mph when the temperature was around zero degrees. Rain resistance and durability were also rated "very good."
Tags: Consumer Reports, excellent wind, excellent wind resistance, very good, wind resistance