If you’re in the market for new windows, you may be considering Gulf Coast windows and Window World. Both companies offer replacement windows at relatively affordable prices, but there are some key differences between them.
This guide examines the pros and cons of Gulf Coast windows and Window World to help you determine which is the better choice for your home.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Category | Gulf Coast Windows | Window World |
| Materials | High-grade thick vinyl; Foam-filled frames | Standard thinner vinyl |
| Efficiency | Meets/exceeds ENERGY STAR standards | Only with upgrades |
| Warranties | Lifetime on vinyl and seals; Glass up to 20 years | Lifetime on materials; Glass 10-20 years |
| Styles | Wide selection of operating and custom styles | More limited operating styles |
| Installation | By company’s own technicians | By local franchises, quality varies |
| Cost | Mid-range pricing | Very affordable, lower prices |
| Quality | Better materials, efficiency, warranties | Lower-end materials, basic models |
| Location | Southeastern U.S. only | National network of franchisees |
Overview of Gulf Coast Windows
Gulf Coast Windows is a regional company based in Florida that serves homeowners in the Southeastern United States. They manufacture and install a variety of vinyl replacement windows, including single hung, double hung, sliding, casement, awning, and picture windows.
Some of the key features and benefits of Gulf Coast windows include:
- Vinyl construction – Gulf Coast uses premium vinyl materials that resist fading, rusting, rotting, and warping. Vinyl requires less maintenance than wood or aluminum.
- Energy efficient glass packages – Their windows can be customized with low-E insulated glass, argon gas filled, and other glazing options to meet specific energy efficiency needs. This improves UV protection and noise reduction.
- Limited lifetime warranty – Gulf Coast offers a transferable limited lifetime warranty on the vinyl and hardware components, as well as the seals on insulated glass units.
- Professional installation – Windows are installed by Gulf Coast’s own installers, not subcontractors. They handle the entire replacement process for a smoother experience.
- Variety of styles – Gulf Coast offers all the main window styles and custom options at medium price points. Their windows come in white or beige.
Potential downsides of Gulf Coast windows include moderate lead times for installation and limited national presence beyond the Southeastern states.
Overview of Window World
Window World is a nationwide company that offers replacement windows, siding, doors, and other exterior home products. They manufacture vinyl windows under their own name brand, and provide installation through local Window World franchises around the country.
Here are some of the notable features of Window World windows:
- Low cost – Window World is known for affordable windows compared to other national brands. They can offer lower prices due to their buying power and franchising model.
- Vinyl construction – Like Gulf Coast, Window World’s vinyl widows are low-maintenance and durable. Their vinyl is thicker and more rigid than competitors.
- Efficiency options – Low-E glass, argon gas, and triple pane designs are available to enhance energy savings. But standard models may not meet ENERGY STAR requirements.
- Styling options – Window World offers single hung, double hung, sliding, and picture window designs in various colors. Their styles tend to be more limited than custom window sellers.
- Warranty – They provide a limited lifetime warranty on materials and workmanship. The glass coverage is more limited at 10 years for seals and 20 years for transparency.
- National network – With over 200 locations nationwide, Window World franchisees can handle jobs of any size. But quality of installers may vary.
Potential downsides are that Window World’s upfront pricing can sometimes increase after assessments, and window quality is not as high-end.
Gulf Coast And Window World: Key Differences
Now that we’ve overviewed the two brands, let’s directly compare some of the major differences between Gulf Coast windows and Window World:
- Window materials – Both use vinyl frameworks, but Gulf Coast windows have thicker vinyl that’s more impact resistant. Window World’s vinyl is also lower grade.
- Product range – Gulf Coast has a wider range of operating styles and custom options. Window World’s product line is more limited.
- Efficiency – Gulf Coast maximizes energy efficiency with standard features like foam-filled frames and double strength glass. Only upgraded Window World windows meet ENERGY STAR standards.
- Warranties – Gulf Coast provides longer coverage periods on glass units than Window World. But both offer lifetime warranties on vinyl.
- Cost – Window World is the budget-friendly option, while Gulf Coast is moderately priced. You get what you pay for in terms of materials and warranties.
- Installation – Gulf Coast manages the entire installation in-house. With Window World, quality depends on the franchisee.
- Aesthetics – Both brands offer classic white window styles. But Gulf Coast also provides beige and woodgrain finishes for added curb appeal.
Pros and Cons of Gulf Coast Windows
Pros
- High quality vinyl construction that’s thicker and more durable
- Meets or exceeds ENERGY STAR requirements for efficiency
- Foam-filled frames enhance insulation
- Wide range of operating styles and custom options
- Limited lifetime warranty on vinyl and seals
- Glass warranty up to 20 years
- Professional installation by company’s own technicians
- Available in white or beige finishes
Cons
- Moderate lead times for installation
- Limited to Southeastern U.S. market
- Not the most budget-friendly option
Pros and Cons of Window World
Pros
- Very affordable pricing, especially for a national brand
- Low-maintenance vinyl frames
- National network of franchise installers
- Simple ordering and installation process
- Good for basic window replacements
- Limited lifetime warranty on materials
Cons
- Vinyl and glass quality not as high-end
- More limited style and customization options
- Shorter warranties on glass coverage
- Quality of installation can vary by location
- Upcharges sometimes added after initial quote
- May not meet ENERGY STAR standards
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Window World windows are very affordable compared to other brands primarily for two reasons:
1. As a large company, Window World has significant buying power with window manufacturers. They can secure vinyl, glass, and other materials at lower prices due to the high volumes they purchase.
2. Window World’s business model is focused on offering low prices. They save on costs by having a more limited product line, offering basic warranties, and relying on local franchisees for installations.
While Window World’s upfront pricing is appealing, it does come at the sacrifice of some quality and higher long-term costs for replacements or repairs that may be needed sooner. You get what you pay for.
Some of the best and most recommended replacement window brands include:
Pella – Known for high-end wood, vinyl, and fiberglass options with excellent warranties.
Marvin – Offers exceptional craftsmanship and customization for a premium price.
Simonton – A mid-range vinyl window with good warranties and energy efficiency.
Milgard – Top rated brand on the West Coast with quality vinyl and fiberglass windows.
Andersen – Popular high-end brand with many style options and innovations like Fibrex composite.
Gulf Coast – Regional brand offering very good quality vinyl windows for an affordable price.
When choosing among the best brands, be sure to consider their materials, efficiency features, warranties, prices, and professional installers.
Window World has their vinyl windows manufactured through licensing partnerships with several major window makers, including:
Ply Gem Windows – This large manufacturer produces Window World’s primary product line. Ply Gem makes over 10 million residential windows annually.
MI Home Products – Some Window World locations offer MI’s NextWave vinyl windows as an alternative option. MI Home Products is one of the biggest U.S. window manufacturers.
WinCore Windows – For metal-clad wood windows, Window World relies on WinCore. They have partnered together for over 15 years.
Vinylmax Windows – This manufacturer provides some specialty shapes and custom windows for Window World’s product offerings.
Using multiple established window manufacturers allows Window World to source quality vinyl windows at affordable prices to pass on to consumers.
Window World windows are primarily made from vinyl, not aluminum. Vinyl is the most common material used by Window World because it offers benefits like these:
1. Vinyl is more energy efficient than metal windows due to its insulating properties. Vinyl helps reduce heating and cooling costs.
2. Vinyl requires very little maintenance since it won’t corrode, rust or rot. It retains its color well.
3. Vinyl is lighter weight than metal but still durable and impact resistant. Good quality vinyl is very long-lasting.
4. Vinyl comes in white or beige to match most home exteriors. It can also be painted.
5. Vinyl is affordable, keeping Window World’s costs down. This allows them to offer low prices.
The majority of Window World’s single hung, double hung, sliding, and picture window product lines utilize vinyl frameworks rather than aluminum. But they do offer some specialty aluminum-clad wood windows as well.
Final Thoughts
For many homeowners, Gulf Coast is the superior choice between these two brands. Their windows are constructed from higher grade vinyl and glass that will perform better and last longer. Energy efficiency is maximized with standard features, not just upgrades. The warranties provide more peace of mind, covering materials and seals for the lifetime of the windows.
While Window World is the budget pick, you often get what you pay for in terms of materials, efficiency, and installation experience. Their basic warranty also comes up shorter than Gulf Coast’s coverage.
Gulf Coast windows do cost more upfront. But over the decades that they will be in your home, Gulf Coast’s quality holds up better to weathering and provides better insulation. This makes them the wiser long-term investment for most homeowners.
Window World makes more sense for those wanting a quick and very affordable window replacement. But their product line is limiting, and total costs can sometimes increase after the initial quote.
Ultimately Gulf Coast windows are our top recommendation for homeowners who want quality replacement windows that will stand the test of time. Investing more now pays off later with superior materials, warranties, and energy savings.
