Best Window Replacement & Installation in Arkansas Ranked

Replacing your home's windows is a significant investment that can dramatically improve comfort, curb appeal, and energy efficiency. In Arkansas's climate, with its hot, humid summers, choosing the right windows and ensuring they are installed correctly is crucial for long-term performance and savings. This guide provides a detailed overview of what you need to know about window replacement in the Natural State, from material choices and energy codes to budgeting and finding qualified local professionals.

Pella Windows and Doors Showroom of North Little Rock, AR

8740 Maumelle Blvd, North Little Rock, AR 72113

Pella Windows and Doors Showroom of North Little Rock, AR specializes in window replacement and door solutions tailored to the architectural styles and climate of Little Rock, AR. Serving the Central Arkansas region, including North Little Rock, Russellville, Conway, Searcy, Pine Bluff, and Hot Springs, the company offers products designed to improve energy efficiency and home aesthetics. Their local showroom provides personalized consultations and features the Pella Care Guarantee for in-home replacement projects, ensuring strong warranty coverage for Arkansas homes.

4.9

588 Reviews

Renewal by Andersen of Greater Arkansas

7 Clearwater Dr, Little Rock, AR 72204

Renewal by Andersen of Greater Arkansas is a local company based in Little Rock, AR, specializing in replacement windows and sliding glass door installation. As the exclusive Renewal by Andersen retailer in the Greater Arkansas area, they offer products backed by over 100 years of industry experience. The company focuses on providing advanced window and door technology suited to the local climate, supported by an industry-leading warranty for lasting customer relationships.

4.9

328 Reviews

Southwest Window & Door

1114 AR-35 Suite B, Benton, AR 72019

Southwest Window & Door is a family-owned window replacement and sliding glass door installation company based in Little Rock, AR. They offer energy-efficient window and door solutions with careful attention to detail, handling projects from replacement to new construction. The company is a certified Andersen contractor and an independent provider for Home Depot, bringing extensive experience in the home improvement industry. Southwest Window & Door is fully licensed and insured, providing installations that enhance both the appearance and value of homes.

5.0

82 Reviews

EcoView Windows & Doors

18735 I-30, Benton, AR 72015

EcoView Windows & Doors is a window replacement and sliding glass door installation company serving Little Rock, AR. They provide energy-efficient and durable window and door solutions designed to improve home comfort and appearance. Their products are low-maintenance and professionally installed to ensure long-lasting performance. EcoView serves multiple states including Arkansas, Texas, Louisiana, Mississippi, and Tennessee, covering cities such as Benton, Maumelle, and nearby areas.

4.8

348 Reviews

Alpine Glass & Mirror

16623 Cantrell Rd, Little Rock, AR 72223

Alpine Glass & Mirror is a window repair and replacement company based in Little Rock, AR, offering custom glass and window services for both residential and commercial properties. They specialize in designing and installing glass shower enclosures, residential windows, and commercial storefronts, focusing on quality craftsmanship and attention to detail. With over 10 years of experience in the glass industry, Alpine Glass & Mirror provides tailored solutions to enhance the style and functionality of homes and businesses in the Little Rock area.

5.0

41 Reviews

See more providers in Arkansas

Why Replace Your Windows in Arkansas?

Arkansas homeowners have several compelling reasons to consider new window installation. Beyond updating an outdated look, modern windows are engineered to combat the state's specific climate challenges. The primary driver is energy efficiency. Older, single-pane windows or poorly sealed units allow significant heat transfer, forcing your air conditioning system to work overtime during long, hot summers ¹. This leads to high energy bills and uneven indoor temperatures.

New, energy-efficient windows act as a thermal barrier, keeping cool air inside during summer and warm air inside during winter. This improved performance can lead to substantial savings on utility costs, often paying for a portion of the investment over time ¹. Additional benefits include reduced outside noise, enhanced home security with modern locking mechanisms, increased natural light, and protection of your home's interior from harmful UV rays that can fade furniture and flooring.

Understanding Window Materials and Costs

The material you choose for your window frames directly impacts the look, maintenance, longevity, and cost of your project. Here's a breakdown of the most common options available in Arkansas.

Vinyl Windows Vinyl is the most popular and budget-friendly choice for window replacement. Made from polyvinyl chloride (PVC), these windows are low-maintenance, never requiring painting or sealing, and resist moisture and insect damage well. They offer good thermal insulation, especially in multi-chambered designs. Costs typically range from $100 to $900 per window, making them an excellent value for many homeowners ^{2 3}.

Wood Windows Wood windows provide a classic, timeless aesthetic that complements traditional and historic homes. They are natural insulators and can be painted or stained to match any decor. However, they require regular maintenance, including repainting and sealing, to protect against Arkansas's humidity and potential rot. Expect to pay between $150 and $1,300 per window for wood ^{2 4}.

Fiberglass Windows Fiberglass frames are known for their exceptional strength, durability, and dimensional stability. They won't warp, crack, or rot, and they can be painted. Fiberglass offers thermal performance superior to vinyl and is often used in high-end installations. This performance comes at a higher price, generally ranging from $320 to over $1,500 per window ^{2 3}.

Composite Windows Composite windows are engineered from a blend of materials, such as wood fibers and polymers. They aim to offer the beautiful look of wood with the low-maintenance durability of vinyl or fiberglass. These are a premium option, with prices often falling between $300 and $1,800 per window ⁴.

Energy Efficiency and Arkansas Building Codes

Given the climate, selecting windows with high energy performance is not just a recommendation-it's often a code requirement. Arkansas follows the International Energy Conservation Code (IECC), which sets minimum standards for window performance ⁵.

Key Performance Ratings (NFRC Label) Look for the National Fenestration Rating Council (NFRC) label on any window you consider. It provides standardized ratings:

• U-Factor: Measures how well the window prevents heat from escaping. Lower numbers are better for insulation.
• Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC): Measures how much solar radiation (heat) passes through. In hot climates like Arkansas, a lower SHGC is better to reduce cooling loads ^{1 5 6}.
• Air Leakage (AL): Measures the rate of air infiltration. Lower is better for draft prevention.

Energy Star Certification For Arkansas's climate zone, choosing windows that are Energy Star certified is highly advisable. This government-backed symbol ensures the product meets strict efficiency guidelines set by the EPA, specifically for your region's weather patterns ⁷.

Essential Efficiency Features

• Double or Triple-Pane Glass: Multiple panes with an air or gas space between them provide far superior insulation compared to single-pane glass.
• Low-E Coatings: Microscopically thin, invisible metallic coatings on the glass reflect infrared heat. In Arkansas, a Low-E coating is critical for reflecting summer heat away from your home ⁶.
• Gas Fills: Inert gases like Argon or Krypton are often pumped between the panes. They are denser than air, providing better insulation and improving U-factor ratings.

Navigating Permits, Codes, and Safety

Professional window installers will typically handle permitting, but it's important for homeowners to understand the basics. A permit is often required for window replacement, especially if you are changing the window's size or structure ⁸.

Egress Requirements Building codes have specific rules for egress windows in bedrooms and basements. These windows must be large enough and low enough to the floor to provide a safe emergency exit in case of fire. Any replacement of a bedroom window must comply with these life-safety codes ⁸.

Tempered Glass Safety glazing (tempered glass) is required by code in windows where the risk of human impact is high. This includes windows adjacent to doors (side-lites), large windows where the bottom is less than 18 inches from the floor, and in shower/tub enclosures ⁸.

Installation Methods: Full-Frame vs. Pocket Replacement

The condition of your existing window frames dictates the installation method, which affects cost, performance, and scope of work.

Pocket (or Insert) Replacement This is the less invasive method. The new window unit is installed inside the existing, structurally sound frame. Only the old sashes and stops are removed. It's faster, less expensive, and creates less mess. However, it doesn't address any rot or decay in the old frame and may result in a slightly smaller glass area.

Full-Frame Replacement This is a complete tear-out. The entire old window, including the frame, sash, and trim, is removed down to the rough opening. This allows for a thorough inspection and repair of the surrounding wall, improves insulation opportunities, and enables a perfect fit for the new unit. It's the best method for addressing water damage, rot, or when changing window styles or sizes. It is more labor-intensive and costly but offers the best long-term results and energy performance ^{1 9}.

Budgeting for Your Project

Window replacement is a custom project, so costs vary widely. On average, homeowners in Arkansas can expect to pay around $600 per window installed, but the total range is broad, from $200 to over $1,200 per window based on materials, size, features, and installation complexity ^{1 9}.

• Cost Per Window: This includes the window unit itself plus professional installation labor, which typically adds $150 to $300 per window ⁹.
• Whole-House Project: For a complete home window replacement (e.g., 20-25 windows), total costs often range from $15,000 to $25,000 or more ⁹.
• Investing in Quality: While the upfront cost of high-performance windows like fiberglass or composite is higher, they offer greater durability and energy savings. In Arkansas's climate, the investment in features like double-pane Low-E glass with argon gas can pay dividends in reduced cooling costs for years to come ¹.

The Critical Role of Professional Installation Even the best window will underperform if installed incorrectly. Poor installation can lead to air leaks, water infiltration, operational issues, and voided manufacturer warranties. A qualified, licensed installer ensures:

• Proper flashing and sealing to prevent water damage.
• Correct shimming and squaring for smooth operation.
• Optimal insulation around the frame.
• Compliance with all local building codes.
• Validation of the product warranty.

Frequently asked questions

Sources