Are Jeld-Wen Windows Worth It?

Jeld-Wen has been in business since the 1960s and is one of the most well-known window brands out there. This brand’s windows are made and sold around the world. In fact, the Jeld-Wen company has about 120 manufacturing facilities in 19 different countries. 

With a history and reputation like that —and all that time to develop products that customers love— it's no wonder that Jeld-Wen is still one of the most recognizable window brands. But even the best brands have cons as well as pros. Let's take a closer look.

1. Price range and quality

When window shopping, it’s important to consider your price range. Jeld-Wen offers windows at a wide price range, so there’s something that can fit into everyone’s budget. 

However, in almost all things home improvement, you get what you pay for, meaning in most cases it’s best not to opt for the cheapest option. Jeld-Wen offers builder-grade windows, which are an affordable option, but lack in overall performance.

2. Lengthy wait times

When looking to install windows, it’s important to consider the time it takes for your windows to be delivered and scheduled for installation. The wait time is called lead time and it varies depending on the manufacturer. There can be additional time after as well, sometimes added to the lead time, to schedule the installation.

At the height of the pandemic, lead times were 6-12 months. Now, the average lead times are about 3-6 months. Of course, it always depends on multiple factors and sometimes it can take less or longer.

So, even though there are several complaints about Jeld-Wen’s delivery times, it typically falls within the standard wait time for windows now.

Common Problems Reported for Jeld-Wen Windows

Unfortunately, like many brands, Jeld-Wen has a few common defects that you might notice when you install this type of window. These include:

3. Item arrived damaged/incorrect

Sometimes accidents can occur in the shipment and delivery process. This seems to be the case in a lot of Jeld-Wen’s client complaints. Depending on where they were purchased, people have to either go through the retailer or try to contact Jeld-Wen directly to get a proper replacement delivered. 

Another issue clients seem to be having is receiving the wrong items. So, upon the arrival of your windows or doors, be sure to check them thoroughly to make sure they are exactly what you ordered!

4. Drafts

Some Jeld-Wen window models might be drafty. Drafts are bad for your HVAC system because it makes it work harder due to air leaks in and out of the house. In most cases, bad drafts will also result in high energy bills. If an efficient home is important to you, drafty windows are a big no.

5. Mold

Some customers have found that their Jeld-Wen windows are prone to mold formation. As recently as 2017 attorneys were investigating claims from homeowners who reported several manufacturing defects on JELD-WEN windows, including claims of mold formation.

This can be costly to remove and is a health hazard. To help prevent mold forming, be sure to take proper measures to make sure your windows are well maintained.

6. Decay and deterioration

Some Jeld-Wen windows are more susceptible to the elements, and if you live in a harsher climate, you might experience premature deterioration of your windows. Another thing to consider is that some windows such as wood windows are more prone to decay and rot. 

This is common among windows that are made from natural materials, but it does shorten the lifespan and increase the need for repairs and maintenance over that lifespan. 

Of course, this is something you’ll need to consider with all window brands.

7. Water Leaks

The final issue some customers experience with Jeld-Wen windows is water leaks - although this might also be related to the installation process. 

Some water leaks can be a manufacturing issue, such as if the window has bad welds or cracks in the frame extrusion. If you spot water pooling in the window you'll want to check to see if the window weep is clogged or do a water test to see if the window was poorly installed. 

If it's not a manufacturing defect or installation problem then the water leak could be caused by a problem with another part of the home's envelope like the siding or roofing.

Jeld-Wen Warranty

As you would expect from a major building material manufacturer like Jeld-Wen, they do offer a warranty on their products. However, also like most building material manufacturers, that warranty is limited and generally doesn't cover the product when it's not installed and cared for correctly. 

Using certain products on your Jeld-Wen windows can also affect your warranty. So it's very important to ensure that you read your warranty documents carefully and ensure you stay within their rules to remain protected. 

The Jeld-Wen window warranty is typically a lifetime warranty for the purchaser, but if you sell your home, the warranty reverts to a ten-year period from the date of installation.

Where to Purchase Jeld-Wen Windows?

Many window companies offer Jeld-Wen windows to their customers, but you can also purchase them at big box stores like Lowes and Home Depot. This makes it very easy to purchase both the windows and parts and accessories, which is very convenient for homeowners. 

You can also use the retailer locator tool on the Jeld-Wen website and find a retailer near you. Don't forget to find a skilled installer too. Even the best windows can be ruined if they're not installed correctly!

Final Thoughts

Jeld-Wen windows have been around for a long time. They're even listed on the New York Stock Exchange! Generally, that doesn't happen unless it's a popular product. 

However, even popular products have pros and cons, and these windows are no different. 

On the positive side, when you choose Jeld-Wen windows, you are working with a major global company. This makes it very easy to get after-sales support, and there's a very large technical and customer service team available to help. 

However, just because Jeld-Wen has been around for a long time, that does not mean all their products are perfect - or perfect for your home. You should never assume any window product will deliver the look, style and quality you need just because there's a big name behind it. 

If you’re located in the Dallas-Fort Worth area and are considering replacement windows for your home, give us a call to schedule a consultation or fill out this contact form. We’d love the opportunity to tell you more about our preferred replacement window products.