Windows

Simonton window review 2024

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Simonton Windows & Doors is a window manufacturer that has been awarded for energy efficiency multiple years in a row. It also offers one of the largest selections of window styles and lines available today. You can find everything from the most durable, energy-efficient double-hung windows to specialty shapes designed to enhance your home’s character.

Regardless, we take issue with some aspects of the company, particularly its lack of in-house installers and mixed customer reviews.

Our Simonton windows review looks at the company’s product selection, warranty policy, customer feedback, pricing and more to help you gauge whether it’s right for you. If it’s not, you can check out our list of top window brands.

Simonton has a wide window selection designed with energy-saving features, but you’ll have to purchase them through a dealer or retailer.
Pros
  • Makes 10 window styles along with patio doors
  • Has window styles awarded as Most Efficient by Energy Star in 2023
  • Provides a transferable lifetime warranty for some materials
Cons
  • Outsources installation
  • Doesn’t offer a labor warranty for window installations
  • Varies product availability by location

Our thoughts on Simonton

We put Simonton to the test using our rating methodology, which includes factors such as the number of window styles, customization options, customer service and warranty coverage. We rated Simonton 4.0 out of 5 stars.

Simonton’s windows and doors are available at retailers such as Home Depot and through dealers across the U.S. and Canada. The company doesn’t have in-house installation services but offers various window types and Energy Star-approved features. 

What we like

The first thing we look for with any window brand is energy efficiency. The windows you invest in should regulate your home’s temperature and lower your monthly electric bill. Energy Star has recognized several Simonton window models as Most Efficient for the last few years, and all products are Energy Star-certified. That certification means they’ve gone through rigorous performance testing.

We also like that Simonton tests its products for safety to ensure they’re as resistant as possible to forced entry. They’re also designed to resist wind, rain and sun damage.

What we don’t like

Simonton leaves window installation to dealers and contractors as opposed to window brands that have in-house installers, such as Renewal by Andersen and Champion. 

Simonton isn’t the only brand that manufactures its windows but doesn’t sell them directly. However, we prefer keeping all aspects of your purchase under one roof to lessen communication issues and to have one warranty provider. The company does have a designated list of professionals with experience installing Simonton windows.

In addition, Simonton doesn’t offer a labor warranty for its windows. This is because Simonton doesn’t provide installation services; it requires you to source your own contractor. Other window brands we’ve reviewed include a labor warranty alongside their window material warranty.

Compare top window brands

Simonton offers many window styles and energy-efficient features, but its lack of in-house labor warranty coverage and framing material options earns it a lower score than many competitors. 

Provider Our Rating Glass and Hardware Warranty Labor Warranty Average Project Price Get Started
4.7
10–20 years 2 years $11,723 Visit Site
4.4
Limited lifetime Limited lifetime $14,223 Visit Site
4.4
10–20 years 0 years $12,540 Visit Site
4.3
10–20 years 0 years $13,348 Visit Site
Provider Our Rating Glass and Hardware Warranty Labor Warranty Average Project Price Get Started
4.7
10–20 years 2 years $11,723 Visit Site
4.4
Limited lifetime Limited lifetime $14,223 Visit Site
4.4
10–20 years 0 years $12,540 Visit Site
4.3
10–20 years 0 years $13,348 Visit Site
No results were found.
Pricing information shown is averaged from our October 2023 survey of 1,500 homeowners who purchased replacement windows for their homes.

Customer thoughts

Simonton has an A+ rating and a low customer rating of 1.2 out of 5 stars on the Better Business Bureau (BBB). In our experience, window companies have poor reviews on BBB because customers use the site to file complaints. We found higher ratings on Google Reviews for Simonton’s local branches. Markeiya T. left a review on Google Reviews about the personable customer service she received from a Simonton representative while checking on her order.

Some customers cite the opposite, though. We read reviews across sites that pointed to window parts easily breaking and fading, poor customer service and difficulty getting things replaced despite being under warranty. 

Skip L. told BBB, “I have been working over six months to get a warranty on one of their windows. I have left numerous voicemails with no return calls. I asked to talk to a supervisor and they act the same as their employees.”

What windows does Simonton sell? 

One thing Simonton has is choices. The brand sells nine window styles and has more than a dozen replacement window lines and four new construction window lines. Although many competitors have eight to 12 styles, hardly any have this many lines to choose from. 

Window lines

Simonton has a robust collection of window replacement lines with varying features and strengths. You can choose from the following:

  • Simonton 5050: Longevity, durability, energy efficiency
  • Simonton 5500: Strength, energy efficiency, customizations
  • Simonton 6100: Natural light
  • Simonton 6200: Natural light, customizations 
  • Simonton 6500: Curb appeal, energy efficiency
  • Simonton 9800: Easy maintenance, energy efficiency, look of wood windows
  • Simonton Asure: Natural light, energy efficiency
  • Simonton DaylightMax: Slim frame design, natural light, energy efficiency
  • Simonton Madeira: Wide frame design, customizations
  • Simonton Premium: Durability, curb appeal, energy efficiency, customizations
  • Simonton Pro: Classic design, energy efficiency, durability, weather-resistance
  • Simonton StormBreaker Plus: Impact protection, durability

Your home builder has access to four new construction lines, including the following:

  • Simonton Brickmould 300: Durable, multitiered frame design, curb appeal
  • Simonton Brickmould 600: Energy efficiency, security, fade protection
  • Simonton Builder: Energy efficiency, durability
  • Simonton Contractor: Customizations, durability 

Window styles

Simonton has most popular window styles you’d expect to see:

  • Awning: These are hinged at the top and open outward from the bottom up.
  • Bay and bow: Bay windows extend out from the wall to offer shelf or bench seating space. Bow windows, which are curved, also jut out from the wall.
  • Casement: Casements are hinged on the side, so the sash cranks outward to the left or right. 
  • Double-hung: Both window sashes move so you can open and tilt each part for easy cleaning and ventilation.
  • Garden: Garden windows extend outward from the wall line but are much smaller than bay and bow windows. The extension provides space you can use as a shelf for herbs or other plants. 
  • Picture: Picture windows are typically large enough to let in plenty of natural light and allow you to enjoy the scenery.
  • Sliding: Sliders open and close horizontally from the left or right.
  • Single-hung: These have a fixed top sash and a bottom sash that can be raised and tilted.
  • Specialty: Simonton makes several fixed windows in arched, circular and other geometric shapes. 

What materials does Simonton use?

One drawback to Simonton is that it only uses one window material: vinyl. If you’re looking for more high-end or architectural options, this isn’t the right brand for you. 

Window frames

Simonton only manufactures vinyl window frames, but the good news is that vinyl is a great option for window construction. It’s durable, long-lasting, affordable and easily customizable. However, it’s not as heavy-duty as fiberglass, as modern as aluminum, or as warm and classic as wood. You won’t find these popular window material options in any of Simonton’s lines. 

If you prefer other material options, such as fiberglass or wood, we recommend looking at Renewal by Andersen or Pella.

Window panels

Simonton produces double- and triple-pane windows, so you have some choice in insulation. Triple-pane windows will be a better investment if you live in a colder climate with harsh winters since the extra glass layer further blocks air leakage.

The U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) changing energy standards over the last few years now encourage more triple-pane window installation for great energy efficiency and noise reduction. A study from the DOE’s Pacific Northwest National Laboratory also found that upgrading from double-pane to triple-pane windows can improve a home’s energy efficiency by 40% or more. 

Energy efficiency

Simonton has been an Energy Star partner since 1999. This certification means its products undergo rigorous independent testing verified by the National Fenestration Rating Council and meet strict energy guidelines set by the Environmental Protection Agency. 

Some of Simonton’s energy-efficiency features include the following:

  • Gas fill: Argon gas is sealed between panels of glass and is an odorless, nontoxic way to increase insulation.
  • Low emissivity (low-e) glass: Low-e glass coatings block UV rays and keep heat out in the summer and in during winter. 
  • Premium vinyl: Simonton claims its high-quality vinyl reduces heat transfer and insulates against temperature changes. 
  • Spacer system: Spacer systems seal glass panels to create an airtight window unit. 
  • Triple-pane glass units: Multiple glass panels and double argon gas fills maximize insulation for superior energy-efficient windows. 

How much do Simonton’s windows cost?

We surveyed 1,500 window customers in October 2023 and learned that those who bought Simonton windows spent between $11,346 and $19,836, depending on the size of the window project. Note that this is not per window but rather how much customers spent on their total window project with the company.

According to Home Depot, most standard vinyl window styles cost between $800 and $1,400. That includes the window, permit, installation labor and estimated tax. Larger window styles, such as bay windows, can cost as much as $6,000. Your window price range will vary depending on the size, amount and type of window you get. 

Expect larger windows, such as bays and bows, to cost more. Customizations, such as nonstandard paint colors or hardware options, will also increase the price. 

The best way to see what your window project will cost is to get a quote. Since Simonton is a manufacturer and not a direct seller, you’ll need an estimate from the retailer or contractor you plan to buy from. You can typically do this over the phone, but you may get a more precise estimate by having an in-home consultation. 

Does Simonton offer financing options?

Again, since you’re not purchasing directly from Simonton, your financing options will come from the source you buy through. Many retailers and installation companies offer payment plans, and some even partner with banks to get you a loan. If you don’t have these options, you can talk to your bank about a home equity loan or another loan type that best fits the size of your purchase. 

What is the installation process with Simonton?

The installation process you experience depends on your installer, but most installation crews do the following:

  1. Prepare the work area by putting drop cloths over nearby furniture and the floor
  2. Remove the old windows 
  3. Look for and repair any damage to the window casing or wall
  4. Install and seal the new windows
  5. Check that windows are installed correctly and each component works properly
  6. Clean up the installation area and dispose of your old windows

We recommend asking your installer what the process will look like before your installation date. 

What are Simonton’s warranty options?

The company’s warranty policy varies by collection. Generally, its warranty covers vinyl, hardware, screens and glass units for the product’s lifetime. This is a double lifetime warranty, meaning you can pass it to new owners one time if you sell your home, as long as you’ve registered the warranty. 

Keep in mind that Simonton doesn’t cover labor-related issues. You’ll need to get a labor warranty from your installer. For example, if part of your window breaks due to poor installation workmanship, Simonton won’t cover it.

Final take: Simonton specializes in vinyl windows only, which may not suit all preferences

Simonton offers a vast variety of window types and window lines to choose from, ranging from budget-friendly single-hung to custom specialty shape windows. The company also features a comprehensive resources section on its website that gives tips on the window buying and selection process.

If you’re looking for budget-friendly vinyl windows, Simonton’s selection is worth considering. However, Simonton won’t extend a labor warranty. Therefore, make sure to read the warranty carefully and get labor coverage from your installer in case of an issue. 

We recommend getting quotes from at least three window companies to compare pricing before deciding and reading customer reviews to gauge whether a company is right for you.

Our rating methodology for window companies

Our aim is to provide you with the information you need to assess and choose a window company when updating or replacing your windows. We conducted research to thoroughly understand the window industry from both a consumer and company perspective. 

Our in-depth methodology compares window companies based on various attributes, including window options, energy efficiency, warranties, reputation, reviews, customer service, communication, installation and other services. Each attribute is worth points that add up to a possible total of 100. We then translate that score into our 5-star rating we feature in our reviews.

BBB and Google Review ratings are accurate as of March 2024.

Editorial note: The name “Homefront” refers to the alliance between USA TODAY and Home Solutions that publishes review, comparison, and informational articles designed to help USA TODAY readers make smarter purchasing and investment decisions about their home. Under the alliance, Homefront provides and publishes research and articles about home service and home improvement topics.

Homefront has an affiliate disclosure policy. The opinions, analyses, reviews or recommendations expressed in this article are those of the Homefront editorial staff alone (see About Homefront). Homefront adheres to strict editorial integrity standards. The information is believed to be accurate as of the publish date, but always check the provider’s website for the most current information.

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