Thus far, I have invited nine different replacement window companies into my home to get quotes for a project involving twelve windows. At first, I was optimistic—thinking that if I explained I already had the number and sizes of the windows noted, I could skip the lengthy demos and just get an estimate. Unfortunately, that wasn’t the case. Most companies refused to give a straight price without going through their full pitch. That’s when I decided to turn this frustrating experience into something helpful for fellow Columbus, Ohio homeowners—by sharing the quotes I collected, I hope to give you a head start in deciding which companies might actually be worth inviting into your home.
Be sure to see the Wacky Window Woman Price Comparison Chart, where I have reviewed pricing and stack ranked many of the larger, well-known window replacement companies in central Ohio.
Quote for New Windows – Columbus, Ohio
Once you’ve had a chance to review the Wacky Window Woman chart, you’ll be in a much better position to decide which companies are worth inviting into your home for a full presentation. Some of the sales reps we met with stuck closely to the standard 90-minute to 2-hour pitch they clearly learned at what I like to call “Window School.” It actually reminded me of those fall Window Nation commercials—the ones with the two brothers soaking up everything they can about windows in their fictional training sessions.
In this match up, I’m comparing Champion Windows to Window Nation. Both companies originated in Ohio, but have expanded their operations to serve a national customer base. Champion Windows has been around since 1953 and also sells Sunrooms and Siding in addition to windows. Window Nation was founded in 2005 and currently has over 13 locations in the US.
Home Window Replacement Estimate – Columbus, Oh
“John” was the representative that Window Nation sent to our home. “John” did exactly what I had expected all of them to do, meaning a big show. He told us that Window Nation is the 3rd largest replacement window company in the US. He shared that he had been with the company 27 years and he even boasted about being a member of their President’s Club and the lavish trips he’s been on. That was my first clue that they were not going to be the most affordable.
Cost of New Window for House – Columbus, Ohio
After “John” finished measuring and counting windows, we sat at the dining room table and he brought out his heat lamp and some different grades of window glass samples. He pointed a laser measuring tool at our window and it showed about a 70, meaning the temperature on the inside of the window was exactly the same temp as the air in our home, so not really bad and nothing negative to note to further validate why we needed new windows. He then used his temperature tool to show us how the temperature of the glass changes as you move from a single pane of glass, to a double pane, then his “special” silver double pane and then even a triple pane. As he continued the temperature continued to go down showing how the heat doesn’t get through the glass. It was all impressive, but I was losing interest. Then he spoke of them being bonded and insured and that the installers are also employees of Window Nation and that they will secure any needed permits.
Next he showed us some videos of how they install windows and how the process works. There was something about foam, some sort of de-mold product and a tube that’s used to insulate the windows. Finally, when he realized he had about 25 minutes left, he went to his vehicle and brought in his window sample. He was a bigger, yet strong guy and I could tell the window was really heavy. I think that theatric was to show how “durable” his window was. He showed us how their drainage is different and a few other things that I can’t remember. I was most impressed with how smooth the window glided up and down. I asked him if they made their own windows and he said, that the Window Nation architects design the window and they contract out to about six different window manufacturers to produce windows to their specs.
He then had us watch two videos of previous customers going on about how much they liked “John” and how happy they were with the job Window Nation had done. Yeah, Yeah, Yeah, give me the price already. Then we finally got down to the numbers.
I’m glad I took notes on my phone as he didn’t leave us with any type of electronic or paper quote. He presented all the different prices at a very quick pace, but here is the jist of what I took away from the appointment.
Keep in mind, he had already groomed us to be prepared that a typical price for a standard window in the Columbus, Ohio area is $2100 per window.
- Window Nation’s Starting Price at full retail was $ 24,869
- The one-year guaranteed price was $ 34,859
- The price if we sign today and become a part of their “Target Home” program was $19,304 (that program said we would have to place a sign in our yard for 30 days and we weren’t allowed to share our discounted price with our neighbors)
- After I left the meeting, my husband said that he also stated, that if and when we are finally ready to make a decision, to call him and he could likely get it down to $16,000
How much does it cost to replace windows in 2025, Columbus, Ohio
We invited “Charlie” of Champion Windows into our home in the Spring of 2025 to give us a quote. Champion has a location in the Lewis Center area just north of Columbus. They sell replacement Windows, Sunrooms and Home Exteriors. They design, build, install and warrant all their replacement windows.
Champion is Energy Star certified, American made and come directly to your home from their factory where they design and make all their windows. Much like many of the others, although they advertise that it’s a LifeTime Warranty, it’s actually a LifeTime Warranty with limitations or also known as Limited LifeTime Warranty. After two years they indicate that they charge a Trip-Charge of $119 to come out and evaluate your situation. Be sure to read what’s not covered in the Warranty, not only with Champion but with any company you are considering for replacement windows. Some are transferrable one time and others have unlimited transferability from one homeowner to the next.
What is the most cost effective Window Replacement in Columbus, Ohio?
“Charlie” from Champion arrived with his clipboard ready to give us his best pitch on why we should purchase Champion Windows. We had some small-talk in the beginning and he asked me to fill out a basic questionnaire to get my name, email and address. He did the required walk-about to measure the windows and confirm how many of them we wanted to replace, twelve in total. Ten are 3′ x 5′, one measures 2′ x 3′ and then one stationary that measures 48″ x 22″.
In his ‘kit’ he had samples of the frame so he could show us how they manufacture the frame and sash and then also to help me understand the profile and what they would look like on the exterior of my home. Champion only sells triple pane. Triple pane windows often require deeper window frames to accommodate the extra glass and spacers. So if you’re replacing double pane with triple pane, the existing window frame has to be compatible — or it might need to be modified or replaced.
Initially, I was bothered by the fact that when replacing my builder-grade windows with replacement windows, I was losing glass space and also, the windows would be thicker, so they would stick out a bit on the exterior. However, once the new windows are installed, you are hardly notice. Also, in some cases if you have blinds that fit inside the window, you may have to replace those. This could be a great thing, if you’ve needed an excuse to get new window treatments or it could be considered just an additional expense.
Charlie also was one of the few who took the time to do the Heat Lamp demonstration. Some do this and make a show out of it and others don’t bother. They plug in a heat lamp and let it warm up. Then they place a single pane, double pane, double pane with Low-E, a double pane with Low-E and Argon Gas and then finally Champion also demonstrated how the Triple pane with Low-E and Argon Gas filled insulated unit allowed the least amount of heat through. This means keeping the heat out in the Summer and keeping the heat inside during the Winter months.
Triple Pane Window Vs. Double Pane Window, which is right for you?
Triple pane windows come with several solid benefits, especially if you’re looking to boost comfort, energy efficiency, or noise control in your home. Here’s a breakdown of the main perks:
1. Better Energy Efficiency/heating and cooling bills: The extra pane and added gas layers (usually argon or krypton) improve insulation. Higher R-value / Lower U-factor: They retain indoor temperatures better, meaning your HVAC system works less.
2. Improved Comfort: Less temperature fluctuation near windows — rooms stay more consistent in both summer and winter. No cold drafts from window glass during winter.
3. Enhanced Soundproofing: The extra pane and two air/gas gaps significantly reduce outside noise. Great if you live near busy roads, airports, or loud neighbors.
4. Reduced Condensation: The interior glass stays warmer, reducing the chance of condensation or frost forming on the inside in cold weather.
5. Increased Home Value: Seen as an energy-efficient upgrade — could boost your home’s resale value. May also qualify for energy-efficiency rebates or tax credits, depending on your location.
6. Better Security: That third pane makes it harder to break through the window, adding a bit of extra protection against break-ins.
Champion Windows Vs. Window Nation, which Window is the best deal in 2025?
In this match-up Champion is a better deal because you get a triple pane window for $1354 less than the traditional double pane window that Window Nation offers. Champion’s Price was $17,950 for the twelve windows and Window Nation was $19,304. The Warranty with Window Nation is a bit more generous, but you are paying for it in the overall higher cost.
I live on a busy road, just a few hundred yards from a train yard, and I can also hear the steady hum of traffic from I-270—so yeah, it’s noisy. That’s why triple pane windows caught my attention. I was just as focused on reducing outside noise as I was on improving energy efficiency—keeping the heat out in the summer and the cold out in the winter. While some folks might say triple pane windows are a bit much for the Columbus, Ohio climate, if you’re dealing with constant noise like I am, they might be the perfect solution.
If you are on a quiet street and don’t experience the noise that we have, then I’d look at the top two or three window replacement companies on the Wacky Window Woman Chart. Any of the top two or three companies are going to be less money than what you’ll find with either Champion or Window Nation.
On the chart, Window World comes in as the most affordable option. But when you compare their Alside 4000 Series to the Alside Quattro window offered by McCloud Windows, I personally think the extra $700 is well worth it for the upgraded quality. If you’re still undecided about going with triple pane, take a look at the companies in the #1 and #2 spots—you could upgrade to triple pane and still end up spending less than you would with Champion or Window Nation!
Be sure to see the Wacky Window Woman Price Comparison Chart to see how many of the larger, replacement window companies in central Ohio stack up when compared one against the other.
