Jessica Wimmer is a writer for USA TODAY Homefront. She specializes in writing reviews and informational articles in the home and pet insurance industries. Jessica analyzes the best brands and has read over 1,000 customer reviews to learn what matters most to buyers. She’s been published in Deep South Magazine, The Dead Mule Journal of Southern Literature and The Deep Water Literary Journal. She’s also a Pushcart Prize nominee, Write Well award winner and former English teacher. Jessica hails from Virginia but currently resides in the Raleigh, North Carolina area.
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In regions prone to high winds and severe weather, having storm windows goes a long way to protect your house. Storm windows can be mounted on either the outside or inside of your existing windows to add an extra layer of protection.
Alternatively, companies such Renewal by Andersen and Marvin can install models with impact-resistant glass to withstand pressure, the elements and flying debris in the event of inclement weather. On an everyday basis, storm and impact windows help block sound, increase your home’s energy efficiency and protect from UV rays.
We researched the best window brands to see which have the best storm windows. We found that Renewal by Andersen, Jeld-Wen and Marvin Windows & Doors make quality storm windows with comprehensive warranty coverage and customer service.
Start comparing by requesting quotes from window providers.
Storm windows are a worthwhile investment if you live in a natural-disaster-prone region and your original windows are drafty. Perusing different types of storm windows can help you stay on budget as you take on this home improvement project. Look for durable materials, weather-resistant hardware and impact-resistant glass.
We put top window companies to the test using our in-house methodology, and the following storm window providers earned the most points. Each one makes high-quality windows, has impressive industry credentials and backs its products with comprehensive warranty coverage.
What we like
Renewal by Andersen (RbA) is one of the most recognized and respected window installers in the industry. The company is an Energy Star partner and a J.D. Power award winner. It’s also certified by the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC), which means its products have been independently tested and proven to meet high quality standards.
Renewal by Andersen’s Coastal Impact series includes interior and exterior window and door options designed to withstand the harshest weather environments. According to Renewal’s brochure for the series, its storm windows can resist the effects of salt water and stand up to hurricane-force winds and wind-borne debris.
What we don’t like
The biggest downside to Renewal by Andersen is that you may have to wait several months between your order and the installation date, according to customer reviews.
Renewal by Andersen has an A+ rating on the Better Business Bureau (BBB) but mixed reviews. Customers appreciate RbA’s courteous service and attention to detail, such as making sure that “everything matches.” However, another customer reported missed installation appointments and an incomplete project.
“They have yet to finish my job due to their installing the wrong window and cracking another, however they are already billing me for a completed job. The county hasn’t even done the final inspection,” the reviewer noted. We noticed other customers cite missed appointment times and installation delays.
On Trustpilot, happy customers note the company’s immaculate approach to protecting their homes by covering furniture, having installers wear booties during the installation, and even vacuuming before departing. However, the company holds an overall rating of 1.7 out of 5 stars on the site.
Renewal by Andersen’s storm product line is called Coastal Impact. This line is certified through the Florida Product Approval program for High Velocity Hurricane Zones (HVHZ) and is made to defend against high winds, torrential rains and flying debris. Installing these windows can also safeguard against everyday heat, humidity, saltwater, UV rays, termites and even break-ins.
Coastal Impact windows are made from RbA’s proprietary Fibrex material, which the company says is twice as strong as vinyl and won’t warp, crack, rot or fade. Combined with high-performance glass, these windows meet the highest grade of forced-entry resistance. They come in 49 interior and exterior finishes and color combinations. The Coastal Impact line also includes storm doors.
Renewal by Andersen backs its windows with a transferable limited warranty.
Renewal by Anderson is a full-service installer. That means it has a professional in-house team that installs its windows. This is beneficial for a few reasons. Primarily, you won’t have to spend time finding and vetting a third-party contractor and end up with a labor warranty from someone other than RbA. You also get the peace of mind that the installation crew is trained and certified by RbA to install the company’s windows.
Another Energy Star partner, Marvin Windows & Doors offers storm window options in three of its product lines. The Coastline collection is the most geared toward inclement weather, featuring exterior and interior storm windows made of aluminum. The Ultimate and Elevate storm window collections are made from aluminum, fiberglass or wood.
Marvin’s products offer superior protection against harsh weather conditions and are Impact Zone-certified and UV-resistant. These windows also include durable, corrosion-resistant hardware and impact-resistant glass made of two laminated layers with an interlayer that helps stop flying debris. The model is also likely to improve soundproofing.
Marvin doesn’t handle installation in-house, so you’ll have to hire an outside contractor. According to customer reviews and our 2023 survey of 1,500 window buyers, Marvin ranks among the most expensive window brands out there.
Marvin has an A+ BBB rating but low customer scores across review sites. We did notice that most negative reviews are about Marvin’s doors rather than its windows, however. Since many third-party installers work with Marvin in addition to customers, reviews are from a mix of both.
While there are plenty of positive reviews that cite helpful customer service reps and quality product engineering, many customers mention a defect in window hardware, glass or framing. We read several reviews from customers who say their windows don’t open and close properly or that Marvin sent the wrong window size. Contractors report problems with window construction that prevent successful installation.
Marvin’s primary storm window line is its Coastline series, which combines extruded aluminum framing and impact-resistant glass designed to withstand high windows and flying debris. Products in this line are HVHZ-approved and meet stringent Miami-Dade County and State of Florida code requirements. Coastline windows are only available in select southeast coastal regions.
Windows in Marvin’s Ultimate and Elevate series are also made with high-impact glass to resist strong winds and flying debris but are not engineered to withstand hurricane-specific weather or meet HVHZ requirements. You’ll find aluminum and wood in the Ultimate collection and fiberglass framing in the Elevate line.
Marvin’s warranty coverage varies by collection. You can see specifics in its sample warranty policy, but here are the highlights:
Unlike Renewal by Andersen, Marvin is only a window manufacturer; it doesn’t handle installation. You’ll need to go through its dealer partners to find an installer. This isn’t unusual for window companies, but it does add a bit of extra work on your part. Note that the labor warranty will be from a separate party.
We like that Jeld-Wen offers multiple storm window styles, especially hard-to-find designs, such as octagon. We also like how energy-efficient Jeld-Wen windows are and that its storm line is made with heavy-duty ImpactGard glass. Being that its storm line is exclusively made of vinyl, it’s reasonably priced. The brand includes a helpful comparison feature on its site so you can see how its storm collection’s performance and design options compare to its other lines.
We don’t like that Jeld-Wen isn’t as transparent about its warranty terms as most window brands. You shouldn’t have to reach out to a representative to learn about coverage. We also don’t like that Jeld-Wen says its storm series is rated for coastal weather conditions but doesn’t go into detail or say whether it’s HVHZ-approved.
Despite an A+ BBB rating, Jeld-Wen does have some less-than-flattering customer reviews. However, most negative reviews from the past year regard patio doors, and those referencing windows mostly mention faulty locks. This may not be an issue for Jeld-Wen’s storm windows, though, since storm windows typically have a different locking mechanism than traditional windows, if they have one at all.
Positive reviews consistently report knowledgeable and friendly customer service and quick problem resolution.
Jeld-Wen designed its Premium Atlantic Vinyl line to meet the severe weather conditions of Florida and the Gulf Coast. The line includes seven styles: awning, casement, extended half-round fixed, octagon fixed, picture fixed, single-hung and sliding. You can choose from four grille designs, three colors and two hardware finish options. Keep in mind that availability may be limited outside of Florida.
Jeld-Wen offers a limited lifetime warranty for its storm series, but it doesn’t offer any details on its site. It’s one of the few window companies that doesn’t have a sample warranty policy online or a webpage listing warranty specifics for customers to read before purchasing. Instead, you have to fill out a form and wait for Jeld-Wen to contact you, which isn’t ideal.
Jeld-Wen doesn’t offer in-house installation. You can find a retailer on its Where to Buy page and arrange installation with a licensed contractor.
The following window companies didn’t rank quite as high against our methodology as the three above, but they are still worth checking out.
Pella is also an Energy Star partner and a recognizable name in the industry. You’ve likely seen Pella products at your local home improvement retailers, such as Home Depot or Lowe’s. The brand has two lines focused on storm windows: the Pella Defender series and the Pella Hurricane Shield series.
Both series use vinyl framing materials, include impact-resistant, laminated glass, and are tested and certified using the Florida Building Code. The Hurricane series is also rated for use in the High Velocity Hurricane Zone.
Though Pella is a popular pick for window shoppers, it didn’t make our top three due to its higher-than-average number of negative customer reviews. We expect some negative reviews for any company, but the overwhelming majority of customers cite issues with both product quality and customer service, so we couldn’t recommend it as a top choice.
Pella has an A+ rating on BBB’s site and has customers, including repeat customers, who say they love their Pella windows and that they received excellent service from start to finish.
Most of the reviews we read from the last two years, however, express frustration over window quality. Reviews mention window parts that break easily or quickly degrade and windows that don’t perform as promised energy-wise. Customers also report unhelpful representatives and issues getting problems resolved.
Pella’s Hurricane Shield series comes in four styles: awning, casement, single-hung and sliding. The collection’s impact-resistant windows are tested to meet or exceed the Florida Building Code’s requirements, including Miami-Dade and Broward County guidelines. Pella has obtained Florida Product Approvals that allow customers to use many Pella Hurricane Shield series products throughout the state, including in the HVHZ.
The series is made with laminated glass to block outside noise and 99.9% of UV rays, helping protect furniture, walls and floors from fading. Not only that, these windows come with insulating argon gas and up to 18 insulating air chambers to reduce heat transfer and improve energy efficiency.
Pella’s Defender series includes many of the same features but isn’t approved to meet Florida codes and only comes in a single-hung style.
Pella offers a limited warranty for its storm collections. Coverage terms include the following:
Pella doesn’t provide in-house installation, but it partners with certified contractors. The company offers a Power by Pella program, which enables experts at Power Home Remodeling to install select Pella products.
Simonton has been an Energy Star partner since 1999, and several of its window models made Energy Star’s Most Efficient list in 2024. Its StormBreaker Plus window series is certified to meet Missile Impact Level D specifications for the Florida Building Commission and Texas Department of Insurance evaluation for the Texas coast. The StormBreaker Plus series features impact-resistant SafePoint Max laminated glass certified to meet the AAMA standards for the HVHZ.
Simonton has a concerningly low BBB grade and customer rating. For all its product testing, many customers still say Simonton doesn’t meet expectations. We’re still including it here, however, due to its impressive energy features and hurricane testing.
Simonton has an F rating on BBB, though we don’t see an alert indicating why. However, BBB displays Simonton’s customer reviews under that of its parent company, Cornerstone Building Brands, without distinguishing which are for Simonton specifically. Negative feedback commonly refers to unhelpful and rude customer service reps and difficulty with the warranty. Customers say that the warranty isn’t user-friendly and that filing and fulfilling a claim is difficult.
Not everyone echoes these issues. Marian H. left a comment on Google Reviews saying, “They had my order number (still under warranty), shipped me a replacement sash at no charge. It took me 5 min to replace. The employee on the phone was extremely nice and helpful.”
Simonton’s hurricane-rated StormBreaker Plus collection is designed and tested to meet the American Architectural Manufacturing Association’s standards for HVHZ and the Miami-Dade and Broward County specifications for the Florida Building Commission and Texas Department of Insurance. The windows are made with impact-resistant SafePoint Max laminated glass to guard against hurricane-force winds and wind-borne debris.
The sound-dampening laminate layer provides a 50% reduction in noise, deters forced entry and deflects up to 99% of UV rays that can cause interior fading. You can get Simonton storm windows in the following styles: awning, casement, double-hung, picture, sliding and specialty shapes.
The StormBreaker plus warranty includes the following:
Simonton doesn’t provide in-house installation. You can use Simonton’s Find a Pro page to locate business professionals in Simonton’s network who operate in your area.
Storm windows are not always replacement windows; often, they can work with your existing windows. You’ll want to understand the different types of storm windows and their features before calling an installer. Keep the following factors in mind when shopping for the best option.
You have a few storm window options: interior storm windows, exterior storm windows or temporary storm windows. Most homeowners choose exterior storm windows to protect their existing windows from the elements, but interior and temporary options are often a better deal.
Storm windows primarily come in aluminum, vinyl and wood frames. Aluminum and vinyl are the most affordable options. Wood storm windows have a classic and architectural look, but wood is expensive and prone to rot if you get a lot of rain or humidity.
Aluminum storm windows are the most cost-effective, but moisture can cause them to corrode, so they may not be the best option for humid areas. Vinyl is a popular choice because it isn’t susceptible to moisture the way the other two materials are, and it’s super energy-efficient and long-lasting.
First, make sure the windows you’re considering have an Energy Star label. This lets you know it’s been tested and certified. Also, check the label for climate zone recommendations. An Energy Star-certified storm window designed for your climate will not only best protect against your area’s elements but also give you better energy savings.
Look for the best glass option within your budget. Thicker and more impact-resistant glass is better for storm protection and energy efficiency. Opt for multiple glass panes with a low-emissivity (low-e) coating. Double-pane windows are more affordable, but triple-pane windows offer more protection. Low-e glass coatings make the window more energy-efficient by controlling how incoming sun rays affect your home’s temperature.
All storm window manufacturers and installers should provide product and workmanship warranties. Most window manufacturers provide a limited warranty that includes 10- to 20-year coverage on window materials and parts. Most installers offer anywhere from two to 10 years of coverage for labor. While lifetime warranties are most advantageous, they’re rare in the window industry — none of the companies we reviewed have this option.
Always read customer reviews for a company’s products and services. Don’t just look at the rating or if negative reviews outweigh positive reviews; rather, take a close look at the common themes. For instance, are customers complaining about broken parts or delayed installation? Pay attention to the specific product and the customer’s location, as these factors may or may not be relevant to your purchase.
Professional window installation costs more money, but most storm windows should be installed by a licensed professional. Think of it this way: You can pay a little bit more for installation now and have windows you can count on when severe weather hits or you can pay more later if your DIY installation leads to potential moisture damage. Neglecting an airtight seal will also lead to poor energy savings. Installation is typically more cost-effective if you install multiple products at a time.
We recommend Renewal by Andersen’s storm windows due to the brand’s HVHZ approval and across-the-board high Energy Star and NFRC certifications. Plus, it’s the only brand on our list that uses Fibrex material in its storm collection, which is twice as strong as vinyl.
Marvin and Jeld-Wen are also good choices and may come at a more affordable price, depending on the style you choose. Of the two, we most recommend Marvin as our runner-up, given its transparency around its hurricane ratings and its material options.
Compare at least three window companies and get a quote or in-person consultation before deciding on the best storm window options for your house.
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 Trustpilot 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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