Builder Grade vs Premium/High-Quality Grade Windows
Price and quality are the two primary factors homeowners consider before replacing their home windows. As a homeowner, would you rather go for a window that simply matches your budget? Or a window that will give your home more value and comes with many benefits? Builder Grade and High Quality/Premium Grade Windows are the two common types of windows homeowners have installed in their homes.

Builder Grade Windows are more common in homes and the ideal pick if you wish to significantly minimize your expenses and save money. However, they do come with a few drawbacks.
On the other hand, High-Quality/Premium Grade Windows are the best choice for upgrading the comfort level of your home and the return on investment. Although they are the expensive option between the two, they have several advantages when it comes to security, protection, durability, maintenance, satisfaction, and visual appeal.
Now that we have learned how price and quality can affect our window buying decision, in this article we will discuss the difference between Builder Grade Windows and High-Quality/Premium Grade Windows, and everything you need to know before you make your decision!
What is Builder Grade Windows?

Builder Grade Windows are also known as Contractor Grade Windows. They are constructed with low-cost and standard materials. They only have one color, which is white, and consist of two panes.
The following are their benefits:
Built from inexpensive materials and sold at a very affordable price.
“Appear” to be good initially after construction.
Could be installed by framers, so no need to hire and pay for professional installers.
Since they have poor attributes, they come with many disadvantages. The potential risk of losing valuable things inside your home may happen because of weakened security.
Here are some other major problems involved in installing Builder Grade Windows:
Become more difficult to operate with opening and closing.
Subjected to an early period of wear and tear.
Transparency of glass lessens eventually.
Compromised UV protection component.
Have poor insulation and only have moderate security measures.
What are High Quality/Premium Grade Windows?

High Quality or Premium Grade Windows are distinguished to have superb value than the no-frills and standard class. They are made with prime materials and exemplary features. Unlike Builder Grade Windows, they have more colors to choose from and have multiple glass panes.
Moreover, here are some more benefits:
Will not easily depreciate.
Can be customized and have a variety of high-grade material options
Have a special coating that includes elements for UV Protection.
Have enhanced insulation and improved security.
Not difficult to maintain and clean.
Covered with warranty.
Present an aesthetically pleasing look.
Designed to fulfill customer satisfaction.
On the other hand, they have inconveniences as well. Here are some of the few drawbacks of High-Quality Windows:
Costs are higher than the nominal price.
Risk of getting structural issues if not properly installed.
Key Differences
To get a clearer understanding of Builder Grade Windows and High Quality/Premium Grade Windows, let us take a look at the chart below their key differences:

Price
Durability
Maintenance
Color
Glazing
Sizing
Gas Fills
Caulking
Life Length & Warranty
Energy Efficiency
Window Installation
Which Option Should You Go With?
Here are a few reminders to help you decide which option you should go with:

Builder Grade Windows come with a cheap price that could help in saving for other expenditures upfront. However, they are made with low-quality components and offer poor performance. Maintaining them could also cost a lot and they have a shorter lifespan.
The price for Premium Grade Windows is expensive. However, they are built with high-quality materials that can guarantee better functions, especially with insulation and protection. They have less maintenance and have a longer lifespan.
We Are Here To Help
If you need help, you can watch this video to learn more about Builder Grade vs Premium Grade Windows, or give us a call if you have any more questions 817-781-6161!