Best Window and Door Companies

Energy efficienct

Most windows and doors are sold with energy efficiency in mind. These products can help homeowners save money on their energy bills as well as contribute to protecting the environment.

• Extra caulking and weatherstripping: Window and door manufacturers reduce drafts and leakage by eliminating gaps between the window sash and doors and their frames.
• Passive solar design: These windows are designed to collect solar energy and trap natural sources of heat and light so that homeowners don't have to rely solely on heaters or lights.
• Energy performance rating: The government rates windows for their energy efficiency. Windows that feature low-e glass, argon-filled insulated panes and superior weatherstripping and caulking get the highest ratings.

Protection against storms

Exterior storm windows and hurricane windows are designed to enhance the energy efficiency of existing windows, especially single-pane units. They also help homes withstand damage during harsh weather conditions.

• Special glass: Storm windows use extra-strength glass to reduce the risk of breakage during a violent storm. The window frames are typically made of aluminum, vinyl or fiberglass.
• Multiple tracks: These windows have multiple tracks and layers so that glass is reinforced, and owners can open different parts of the window, adding greater flexibility.
• Built-in screens: Most storm windows and hurricane windows have built-in screens that prevent insects and debris from entering the home when the window is open.

Noise reduction

There are specially-engineered windows that can dramatically reduce noise from outside. These windows are popular in urban areas, neighborhoods near airports and other locations where there's a lot of traffic and noise. Some windows can even be fitted with filters that can be set to block out certain noises and let in others.

• Inserts: Inside-mount window inserts cover window sash and block out most noises. They also help insulate the window, keeping heated or cooled air inside.
• Laminated glass: Laminated glass has a layer of plastic in between the glass panes, which helps block out noise. This type of window is also known as a soundproof window.
• Triple-pane windows: Built for superior energy efficiency, triple-pane windows also do an excellent job of dampening exterior sounds.

Home security

Different types of doors and windows can be used to help keep the home safe and reduce the risk of break-ins.

• Security doors: Security doors are made of reinforced steel and set into welded steel frames. These heavy doors are virtually impossible to cut through and are used to secure rooms where valuables are stored. They are often fitted with multiple locks.
• Reinforced glass: Placing reinforced glass in the windows makes it harder for people to break the panes to get into the house. This glass may also have multiple layers.
• Window bars: Steel bars on windows can deter intruders from breaking and entering a home. The bars can be customized to fit the home's décor and architectural style.

Customization

It's important to be able to customize doors and windows to fit your personal preference and style.

• Mix and match: Homeowners can often choose from a variety of products and install different products in different parts of the home.
• Style packages: Some window or door installers may offer a series of products that are meant to emulate a particular style.
• Expert help: Some window or door companies may provide designers to help homeowners determine which products best meet their stylistic needs.

Double-hung windows

With two sashes that slide up and down independently, double-hung windows are the most popular type of residential window sold today.

Casement windows

Popular on contemporary-style homes, casement windows crank open and are particularly well-suited for hard-to-reach installations, such as in front of a kitchen sink.

Bay windows

These windows project from the house at an angle (typically 30 or 45 degrees) in order to provide wide-angle views and architectural interest.

Bow windows

Projecting out from the house in a gentle arch, bow windows provide a beautiful, panoramic view of the outdoors.

Picture windows

Picture windows are stationary, non-openable windows that add great views and aesthetic value. They’re often flanked by narrow casements or double-hung units.

Hopper windows

Tilt-in hopper windows are typically installed in basements and crawlspaces. The narrow sash locks at the top and when unlatched tips in toward the interior.

Exterior doors

Exterior doors, as the name implies, are installed in the front and back of the home so that people can get in and out easily. They need to be fitted with locks and are made out of heavier material, in order to ensure they stay closed and locked.

Common types of exterior door materials:

• Wood-panel doors
• Solid-core flush exterior doors
• Stave-core doors
• Fiberglass exterior doors
• Glass exterior doors
• Steel exterior doors

Interior doors

Interior doors are installed in doorways to rooms. They provide privacy and a modicum of security. They’re often made out of solid wood with a traditional frame-and-panel design, but lightweight options are also available.

Common types of interior door materials:

• Solid wood interior doors
• Solid-core interior doors
• Hollow-core interior doors
• Medium-density fiberboard (MDF) doors
• Laminate interior doors
• Glass interior doors