Windows are one of the most important features of any home. Not only do they let in natural light and fresh air, they also impact energy efficiency, noise reduction, security and curb appeal.
So when it comes time to replace your windows, it pays to do your research to find the best option for your needs and budget.
Two popular lines from trusted manufacturer JELD-WEN are the 2500 and 4500 series. But what exactly sets these window collections apart? In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare JELD-WEN 2500 vs 4500 windows to help you determine the ideal choice for your replacement project.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Feature | JELD-WEN 2500 Window | JELD-WEN 4500 Window |
| Glazing | Double pane | Triple pane |
| Glass Coatings | Standard Low-E | Advanced Low-E |
| Gas Fill | Air | Argon |
| Frame | Multi-chambered vinyl | Polyurethane foam-filled |
| Sash | Hollow vinyl | Foam-filled vinyl |
| Hardware | Standard | Upgraded |
| Noise Reduction | Moderate | Superior |
| Energy Efficiency | Meets ENERGY STAR | Exceeds ENERGY STAR |
| U-Factor | 0.26 | Up to 0.17 |
| Solar Heat Gain | Standard | Advanced solar control |
| Air Infiltration | Good | Excellent |
| Warranty | 10 years | 20 years |
Overview of JELD-WEN Window Options
Founded in 1960, JELD-WEN is one of the world’s largest door and window manufacturers.
They offer a wide selection of high-quality products made from various materials like vinyl, wood, aluminum and fiberglass.
Within their vinyl window offerings are the 2500 and 4500 series.
Here’s a quick look at each:
JELD-WEN 2500
JELD-WEN’s 2500 series windows represent their mid-range vinyl product line. They feature a basic double hung or slider design and a more standard set of features. 2500 windows are a dependable, affordable vinyl option suitable for most homes.
JELD-WEN 4500
The 4500 series sits at JELD-WEN’s premium tier of vinyl windows. They boast a triple-pane construction and JELD-WEN’s most advanced technology and design upgrades. 4500 windows deliver exceptional energy efficiency and performance perfect for those wanting the best vinyl windows available.
Key Differences Between JELD-WEN 2500 And 4500 Windows
Now let’s dig into the details of each series side-by-side to see how they truly compare.
Frame & Sash
A window’s frame and sash construction impacts both its appearance and functionality. Here’s how the 2500 and 4500 series stack up:
- Frame – Both feature a multi-chambered vinyl frame for insulation. The 4500 ups the ante with an advanced polyurethane foam infusion for even better thermal efficiency.
- Sash – The 2500 series has a basic hollow vinyl sash while the 4500 line boasts a foam-filled sash for enhanced insulation, strength and durability.
- Hardware – Upgraded hardware on 4500 windows allows for a sleeker profile and increased ease of operation.
- Color Options – 2500 windows come in white or almond. The 4500 line offers those neutral shades plus desert sand and bronze exterior colors to match any home’s style.
Glass Packages
The type of glass used in a window plays a significant role in its insulating value, sound dampening, UV protection and appearance. Let’s compare the glass offerings:
- 2500 – This mid-range line features a standard double pane insulated glass unit. The air space between panes provides a thermal barrier.
- 4500 – Premium triple pane construction with two inner air spaces delivers the maximum insulation value. Advanced Low-E coatings also boost efficiency.
- Gas Fill – Argon gas fill in the 4500 windows insulates better than just air alone.
- Noise Reduction – Triple glazing significantly decreases outside noise transmission.
- Solar Control – Stronger solar control glass comes standard on 4500 windows to block UV rays and limit heat gain.
Design & Customization Options
Jensen Windows are known for their design flexibility. How do 2500 and 4500 windows allow you to customize?
- Shapes – Both series offer common shapes like single hung, double hung, sliders, casements and awnings. The 4500 line also includes more unique shapes like rounds, triangles and trapezoids.
- Sizes – More custom sizing options exist in the 4500 line, including larger openings to bring in more light.
- Interior Finishes – Choose a stainable pine or painted interior finish in various colors to match any decor. More finishes are available for 4500 windows.
- Exterior Looks – Standard colors are offered on both, but the 4500 line also includes designer finishes like brick red, sage green and cocoa bean to match your home’s specific aesthetic.
- Divided Lites – Simulated divided lites with grids between glass panes offer the historic look without individual panes to clean. More grid patterns and caming options exist for 4500 series windows.
- Screens – Fiberglass screens come standard, but the 4500 line also offers bright aluminum and phifer monofilament screens.
- Hardware Finishes – Matte black, oil rubbed bronze, satin nickel and more handle finishes allow you to match existing interior hardware.
Energy Efficiency
One of the most important factors when shopping for new windows is energy performance. Here’s how the 2500 and 4500 series compare:
- 2500 Windows – With double pane insulated glass, 2500 windows meet ENERGY STAR® requirements in all climate zones. This makes them about 15-20% more efficient than single pane windows.
- 4500 Windows – The triple glazing, multiple Low-E coatings and argon gas fill enable 4500 windows to achieve ENERGY STAR® Most Efficient criteria. They exceed ENERGY STAR requirements by over 30%.
- U-Factor – The lower the U-factor, the better the insulation. 4500 windows have a U-factor as low as 0.17 compared to 0.26 for 2500 models.
- Solar Heat Gain – 4500 windows have a lower solar heat gain coefficient, meaning they let in less heat from sunlight. This keeps your home cooler.
- Air Infiltration – Advanced weatherstripping minimizes air leaks better on 4500 windows, further bolstering energy savings.
Warranties
The duration and coverage of warranties also differ between JELD-WEN 2500 and 4500 windows:
- 2500 – Come with a 20-year glass breakage warranty and a 10-year coverage on defects in materials and workmanship.
- 4500 – Backed by a lifetime glass breakage warranty and 20 years coverage on materials and manufacturing defects. Clearly more robust coverage.
Cost Comparison
In terms of upfront purchase price, JELD-WEN 4500 windows do cost more than the 2500 series. However, the more advanced materials, construction and technology allow 4500 models to deliver 2-3 times the insulation value of 2500 windows.
This increased energy efficiency leads to significant long-term cost savings on utility bills. Most homeowners are able to recoup the higher initial cost of 4500 windows in 5-7 years through energy savings. And 4500 windows should also have a longer lifespan than 2500 models before needing replacement again.
JELD-WEN 2500 Or 4500 Windows: Which Should You Choose?
Now that we’ve compared these two popular JELD-WEN window lines across a variety of factors, how do you decide which is the better option for your home and needs?
JELD-WEN 2500 windows are best suited for homeowners who:
- Want a quality vinyl window at an affordable price point
- Have a basic, straightforward window replacement needs
- Prioritize upfront cost over long-term savings
- Live in milder climates where extreme efficiency isn’t as necessary
JELD-WEN 4500 windows are ideal for those who:
- Want top-of-the-line vinyl windows with maximum energy efficiency
- Need excellent insulation for cold winters or hot summers
- Prefer advanced technologies and premium features
- Appreciate heightened noise reduction
- Want windows to enhance curb appeal with stylish finishes
- Are willing to invest more upfront for long-term savings on energy costs
While the 4500 series does cost more initially, keep in mind that the improved insulation can cut energy bills by hundreds of dollars per year.
And the better durability and warranty coverage ensure 4500 windows will last longer before needing to be replaced again.
If your goal is to get the most energy efficient, highest performing windows possible to make your home quieter, more comfortable and reduce your carbon footprint, the investment in JELD-WEN 4500 windows is well worth it.
Plus, the energy savings and potential tax credits or utility rebates can offset some of the upfront cost.
For many homeowners, the advanced triple glazing construction and overall better features of the 4500 series make them the ideal choice when comparing JELD-WEN 2500 vs 4500 windows.
But assess your specific needs and goals to decide which JELD-WEN vinyl window line is right for your next window replacement project.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Still have some questions about choosing between JELD-WEN 2500 and 4500 windows? Here are answers to some frequently asked questions:
The main differences are that 4500 windows have triple glazing instead of double panes, more advanced Low-E coatings, argon gas fill, foam-filled sash and frame, upgraded hardware, more noise reduction, and better energy efficiency. 4500 windows also come in more color and design options and have longer warranties.
Simonton windows are another respected vinyl window brand. They offer both mid-range and premium lines similar to JELD-WEN’s 2500 and 4500 series. Simonton does not have as long of a history as JELD-WEN but they are known for making reliable windows with good warranties. Quality wise, comparable Simonton and JELD-WEN windows are quite similar.
Premium vinyl windows like the JELD-WEN 4500 series refer to top-tier window products featuring triple glazing, foam-filled frames, composite reinforcements, high-end hardware, and other upgrades that enhance energy efficiency, durability and performance. They cost more than standard vinyl but deliver exceptional quality and savings.
JW windows are made by JELD-WEN, one of the largest window and door manufacturers globally. Founded in 1960, the company makes products from vinyl, wood, aluminum and other materials at facilities based primarily in the United States and Canada. They are known for making dependable, energy efficient windows backed by strong warranties.
Closing Remarks
In conclusion, when you’re shopping for replacement windows, carefully compare the features and value offered by options like JELD-WEN 2500 and 4500 windows. This ensures you’ll select the ideal windows for your home and budget long-term.
Focus on energy performance, durability, warranties, appearance and customization options as you choose windows that will serve your home well for decades to come.