Those “$99 replacement windows” ads have been around forever. Helped a neighbor figure out what he was actually getting. Spoiler: not much for $99.
The Real Deal
The $99 is a hook. It might be the window price, but installation isn’t included. Neither are screens, grids, or anything beyond the absolute base model. By the time you add everything, you’re paying normal prices.
Sometimes it’s $99 per window with a minimum order. Buy ten windows and suddenly the “deal” costs $990 before labor.
What You Get
Basic vinyl windows. Single-hung usually, not double-hung. Standard sizes only – custom costs extra. Double-pane glass, but probably not Low-E or argon filled unless you upgrade.
Not terrible products necessarily. Just nothing special. The same windows cost similar amounts from any supplier when you compare apples to apples.
What Gets Skipped
Installation quality – Cheap window installers work fast. Fast means shortcuts on flashing, caulking, and fit. A window is only as good as its installation.
Energy performance – Budget windows meet code but barely. Higher U-factors mean more heat transfer. You save on windows, spend on heating and cooling.
Warranty – Read the fine print. Lifetime warranties often have carve-outs for the important stuff. Glass seal failure, for instance, might not be covered.
When Budget Windows Make Sense
Rental properties where appearance matters more than longevity. Houses you’re selling soon where buyers won’t look closely. Spaces like garages or sheds where efficiency isn’t critical.
For a house you plan to live in for decades? Probably not the best investment.
What to Ask
What’s the total installed price? Not per window, total. What’s the U-factor and SHGC? What exactly does the warranty cover, and for how long?
Get at least three quotes. Compare specifications, not just prices. The cheapest quote isn’t always the best value.
Better Alternatives
Mid-range windows from reputable manufacturers cost more upfront but perform better and last longer. The difference in monthly energy costs adds up over years.
Sometimes waiting and saving for better windows beats installing cheap ones now. You end up replacing them twice otherwise.
My Take
The $99 number is marketing. It gets you to call. What matters is total cost, total value, and who’s doing the installation. Focus on those things and you’ll make a better decision than chasing the cheapest headline price.
