Comsumer Reports Limitations
The big downside to CR ratings is the windows that they test. This is especially true with vinyl windows, but less so with wood clad and fiberglass window frames. Check out our list of the best vinyl windows and you'll notice that not one of the brands or models that we recommended is tested by Consumer Reports. While they review companies such as Reliabilt, Alside, American Craftsman, CertainTeed, Crestline and Pella, none of these are near the top of our recommended windows. In fact, most of them are closer towards the bottom.