American Craftsman is a budget window brand that is sold through many of the hardware and big box stores. In 2018, Ply Gem acquired Silverline and American Craftsman from Andersen. Today, Cornerstone Building Brands owns Ply Gem, American Craftsman, and Silverline, amongst others. A/C sells the majority of their windows through Home Depot’s nearly 2000 stores across the United States. American Craftsman actually has a good reputation with consumers. Not so much with industry insiders.
Company Rating: 5.0 out of 10
Overall Price Point: 5.0 out of 10
Bottom Line: American Craftsman is one of the worst window brands out there. It is marketed towards consumers who think that all windows are the same. Not a good buy if you are interested in a replacement window that lasts.
(Always collect 3 to 4 additional bids)
Bill — Site Editor
(1/2 Out Of 5)
Versus Other Vinyl Windows
American Craftsman Windows Reviews
American Craftsman sells two basic vinyl windows – the base 50 series and the slightly upgraded 70 series. There isn’t a whole lot that separates these two options from one another. While these windows might be acceptable for house flips, they are not going to be a window that provides good long term value. A/C is available in all 50 states through Home Depot/
American Craftsman Windows Warranty
The Warranty: I’m not sure on the warranty terms, but it probably doesn’t cover much. This should be reflected in the price point.
Bargain Windows
If you’re after a bargain window then American Craftsman is a good choice. I have fifteen years’ experience with these windows and they have good customer service and a decent warranty. Don’t go with anything below the V3 series and you’ll be alright.
Jake – Homeowner – 2024
American Craftsman And Consumer Reports
I was excited when I found that American Craftsman had been given a high ranking on the consumer reports. But then I started doing my homework and found that consumer report only tests windows which can be bought from a store – eliminating the higher quality vinyl windows. So I went down to Home Depot to see for myself and I cannot tell you how cheap the American Craftsman windows looked. So don’t rely on consumer report when making your decision.
Mike – Homeowner – 2023
American Craftsman Costs
V1 Series: $350 installed
V3 Series: $400 installed
8500 Series: $275 installed
9500 Series: $325 installed
Find additional replacement windows cost info here.
American Craftsman Windows Reviews
I would only recommend American Craftsman if you need a temporary window. Also, be sure to only use a private outside contractor, the box stores always go with the cheapest installer and that may result in poor quality work. It’s amazing what a good installer can do, they can make the window look great and make it more durable, reducing the risk of leaks.
Bill – Site Editor – 2022
American Craftsman vs Andersen
Bill, are these two companies the same? I thought that they were but the guy at Home Depot told me that they have nothing to do with one another. I’ll admit, I’m a bit confused – thanks so much for your time.
Tim – Homeowner- from 2022
[Site Editor Reply]
Tim, AC was once owned by Andersen as a way to get into the vinyl window space. Eventually though, the company sold off both AC and SilverlineSilverline – it definitely was not helping their brand to be honest. The two companies are now totally separate. While Andersen is a great brand, I can’t say the same for AC.
Bill – Site Editor – from 2022
American Craftsman vs Atrium
I am not a fan of the American Craftsman 8500 or Jeldwen. Simply put, I think they are poor quality. If you really want to go to Home Depot for American Craftsman windows then look at the 9500, they are better than the 8500 series.
Instead, you may want to look at Atrium, they are good and the 3000 series comes with a lifetime warranty. Of course, Simontons are my top choice but are more expensive.
John – Builder – 2019
Read additional Jeld Wen windows reviews.
Design Problems
American Craftsman is the lowest quality product on the market. Andersen owns American Craftsman. Specifically, they don’t have a good design and I’ve found they often leak, they also use chap materials and the vinyl often cracks.
Mick – Installer – 2018
American Craftsman Complaints
I would only consider American Craftsman for a rental property or property you are in the process of selling. Otherwise, I would consider these windows a complete waste of time. To be honest, their windows are engineered according to the minimum requirements using the cheapest of materials and I have never read any good reviews about them.
If you’re looking for a good window look at the Simonton 6500 rather. You can also consider Sunrise or Gorell at a similar price with much better quality.
Jason – Contractor – 2014
Read additional Gorell windows reviews.
Windows Appear To Be Leaking
I was wondering if there is anyone who has experience using the American Craftsman 7550 windows. Recently, we had a number of them installed on our property and the first rains caused leaking on one of the windows. The leak appears to be at the top of the window, but on further inspection I noticed that the top of the windows tend to lean in towards the home and I was wondering if this is normal. I truly appreciate the advice.
James – Homeowner – 2013
[Contractor Response]
I’ve installing windows for many years and always tell my clients not to use any windows (including the American Craftsman) that you buy from a home building supply store. The truth is, these windows are usually cheaper options.
My advice is to get in touch with whoever installed your windows immediately to repair the problem. Also, get a drip cap added over the casement window at the top. This will definitely help.
Steven – Contractor – 2013
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