Quick Overview
- 1#1: Windowmaker - Provides comprehensive design, estimating, quoting, and manufacturing optimization for custom windows and doors.
- 2#2: TKH Software - Offers advanced 3D design, precise estimating, and production planning for windows, doors, and stairs.
- 3#3: MiCASA - Delivers integrated estimating, quoting, and order processing for architectural fenestration products.
- 4#4: Window Designer - Enables CAD-based window and door design with automated takeoffs and cost estimating.
- 5#5: Gale Force Software - Supports fenestration design and estimating using 20-20 CAP for windows and patio doors.
- 6#6: FeneVision - Comprehensive ERP system with advanced estimating and production management for fenestration manufacturers.
- 7#7: RFMS - Manages estimating, job costing, and scheduling specifically for window and door fabricators.
- 8#8: Optimise - Optimizes design, estimating, and manufacturing workflows for PVC-U window fabricators.
- 9#9: Windowlink - Streamlines quoting, ordering, and production control for window and door companies.
- 10#10: Planswift - Digital takeoff and estimating software ideal for accurate window quantity and cost calculations from plans.
Tools were selected and ranked based on robust feature sets (including design capabilities, estimating accuracy, and manufacturing integration), user-friendly interfaces, and overall value, prioritizing both specialized and versatile solutions that meet industry demands.
Comparison Table
This comparison table explores leading window estimating software options, featuring Windowmaker, TKH Software, MiCASA, Window Designer, Gale Force Software, and more, to help users identify tools that align with their specific needs. Readers will learn key differences in functionality, accuracy, and workflow integration, enabling them to make informed choices for efficient window estimation processes.
| # | Tool | Category | Overall | Features | Ease of Use | Value |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| 1 | Windowmaker Provides comprehensive design, estimating, quoting, and manufacturing optimization for custom windows and doors. | specialized | 9.7/10 | 9.9/10 | 8.8/10 | 9.5/10 |
| 2 | TKH Software Offers advanced 3D design, precise estimating, and production planning for windows, doors, and stairs. | specialized | 9.1/10 | 9.5/10 | 8.2/10 | 8.7/10 |
| 3 | MiCASA Delivers integrated estimating, quoting, and order processing for architectural fenestration products. | specialized | 8.6/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.9/10 | 8.4/10 |
| 4 | Window Designer Enables CAD-based window and door design with automated takeoffs and cost estimating. | specialized | 8.3/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.8/10 | 8.0/10 |
| 5 | Gale Force Software Supports fenestration design and estimating using 20-20 CAP for windows and patio doors. | specialized | 8.2/10 | 9.1/10 | 7.4/10 | 7.9/10 |
| 6 | FeneVision Comprehensive ERP system with advanced estimating and production management for fenestration manufacturers. | enterprise | 8.1/10 | 9.3/10 | 6.7/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 7 | RFMS Manages estimating, job costing, and scheduling specifically for window and door fabricators. | enterprise | 7.6/10 | 8.1/10 | 7.2/10 | 7.4/10 |
| 8 | Optimise Optimizes design, estimating, and manufacturing workflows for PVC-U window fabricators. | specialized | 7.8/10 | 8.5/10 | 7.0/10 | 7.5/10 |
| 9 | Windowlink Streamlines quoting, ordering, and production control for window and door companies. | specialized | 7.3/10 | 8.0/10 | 6.5/10 | 7.0/10 |
| 10 | Planswift Digital takeoff and estimating software ideal for accurate window quantity and cost calculations from plans. | specialized | 7.6/10 | 8.0/10 | 7.5/10 | 7.2/10 |
Provides comprehensive design, estimating, quoting, and manufacturing optimization for custom windows and doors.
Offers advanced 3D design, precise estimating, and production planning for windows, doors, and stairs.
Delivers integrated estimating, quoting, and order processing for architectural fenestration products.
Enables CAD-based window and door design with automated takeoffs and cost estimating.
Supports fenestration design and estimating using 20-20 CAP for windows and patio doors.
Comprehensive ERP system with advanced estimating and production management for fenestration manufacturers.
Manages estimating, job costing, and scheduling specifically for window and door fabricators.
Optimizes design, estimating, and manufacturing workflows for PVC-U window fabricators.
Streamlines quoting, ordering, and production control for window and door companies.
Digital takeoff and estimating software ideal for accurate window quantity and cost calculations from plans.
Windowmaker
specializedProvides comprehensive design, estimating, quoting, and manufacturing optimization for custom windows and doors.
Advanced 3D engineering engine that automatically generates optimized shop drawings, cut lists, and CNC files from any quote
Windowmaker is a leading comprehensive software solution tailored for window and door manufacturers, offering end-to-end functionality from precise takeoffs and estimating to engineering, production scheduling, and delivery management. It excels in handling complex fenestration configurations, generating shop drawings, optimizing materials, and integrating with CAD, ERP, and accounting systems. Designed specifically for the industry, it minimizes errors, reduces waste, and accelerates quoting to streamline operations for fabricators.
Pros
- Unmatched accuracy in estimating complex window grids, muntins, and custom shapes
- Seamless workflow integration from quote to manufacturing and invoicing
- Powerful material optimization and waste reduction tools boosting profitability
Cons
- Steep learning curve requiring dedicated training for new users
- High upfront costs and enterprise-level pricing
- Primarily Windows-based with limited mobile accessibility
Best For
Established window and door fabricators and manufacturers needing a robust, industry-specific platform for high-volume production and precise estimating.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing with modular licensing; typically starts at $10,000+ annually depending on modules, users, and support level—contact for quote.
TKH Software
specializedOffers advanced 3D design, precise estimating, and production planning for windows, doors, and stairs.
Advanced dimensional engineering engine that automatically calculates precise material lists and costs for custom fenestration products
TKH Software's WinDoor Expert is a robust, industry-specific solution for window and door estimating in the fenestration sector, providing precise takeoffs, cost calculations, and quote generation. It integrates estimating with production scheduling, inventory management, and job costing for end-to-end workflow efficiency. Designed for fabricators and manufacturers, it handles complex custom shapes, thermal performance calculations, and BOM generation with high accuracy.
Pros
- Exceptionally accurate dimensional engineering and estimating for complex windows and doors
- Seamless integration of estimating, production, and accounting modules
- Strong customization options and reliable customer support from a fenestration specialist
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to depth of features
- Primarily desktop-based with limited mobile/cloud accessibility
- Higher upfront costs compared to simpler estimating tools
Best For
Mid-to-large window and door fabricators requiring precise, integrated estimating and production management.
Pricing
Perpetual licenses starting at around $5,000-$15,000 per module plus annual maintenance fees of 15-20%; custom quotes available.
MiCASA
specializedDelivers integrated estimating, quoting, and order processing for architectural fenestration products.
Advanced parametric engine that automatically generates cut lists, hardware schedules, and glazing calculations from 2D/3D inputs
MiCASA by Intersoft Systems is a specialized estimating software tailored for the fenestration industry, enabling precise takeoffs and cost calculations for windows, doors, storefronts, and curtain walls. It features parametric modeling, automatic material and labor computations, and integration with CAD/BIM tools for accurate project bidding. The software excels in handling complex aluminum and glazing assemblies, generating detailed reports and quotes to streamline construction estimating workflows.
Pros
- Highly accurate parametric takeoff for complex fenestration products
- Customizable cost databases and detailed reporting capabilities
- Strong integration with CAD and BIM for seamless workflows
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users due to extensive features
- Windows-only platform with limited mobile support
- Higher cost may deter small firms
Best For
Mid-sized window and door fabricators or glazing contractors managing intricate commercial projects requiring precise material optimization.
Pricing
Quote-based licensing starting around $5,000 annually for standard editions, with enterprise customizations available.
Window Designer
specializedEnables CAD-based window and door design with automated takeoffs and cost estimating.
Visual Takeoff (VTO) for drag-and-drop window design with real-time material calculations
Window Designer from Soft Tech Inc. is a desktop-based software solution tailored for window and door fabricators, manufacturers, and dealers, providing interactive CAD takeoff, precise estimating, and professional quoting tools. It enables users to design custom windows with complex shapes, generate detailed material lists and cut lists, and streamline the transition from quote to production order. With decades of industry use, it supports vinyl, aluminum, and wood products while integrating with ERP and manufacturing systems for end-to-end workflow efficiency.
Pros
- Powerful interactive CAD takeoff for accurate custom window design
- Precise material estimating and cut list generation
- Seamless quoting, ordering, and manufacturing integration
Cons
- Dated interface requiring Windows desktop installation
- Steep learning curve for CAD novices
- Pricing lacks transparency with quote-based model
Best For
Mid-sized window and door fabricators needing robust CAD-driven estimating and production planning.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; typically perpetual licenses starting at $5,000+ with annual maintenance fees around 20%.
Gale Force Software
specializedSupports fenestration design and estimating using 20-20 CAP for windows and patio doors.
Advanced assembly builder that models intricate multi-component window systems with automatic cost rollups
Gale Force Software, through its flagship WinQuote product, provides specialized estimating and quoting tools tailored for the fenestration industry, focusing on windows and doors. It enables users to perform precise takeoffs, calculate material and labor costs, and generate professional bids with detailed assemblies and pricing breakdowns. The software integrates with manufacturing systems to streamline production workflows from estimate to order fulfillment.
Pros
- Highly accurate for complex window and door assemblies
- Deep customization for industry-specific products
- Strong integration with manufacturing and ERP systems
Cons
- Steep learning curve for new users
- Limited mobile or cloud accessibility
- Pricing lacks transparency and can be high for small firms
Best For
Mid-sized window and door fabricators and manufacturers handling custom, high-volume projects that require precise estimating tied to production.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing; perpetual licenses start around $10,000+ with annual maintenance fees of 20%.
FeneVision
enterpriseComprehensive ERP system with advanced estimating and production management for fenestration manufacturers.
End-to-end optimization engine that automatically generates production-ready data directly from estimates, minimizing errors and waste.
FeneVision is a comprehensive ERP platform designed specifically for the fenestration industry, offering advanced estimating tools for window, door, and curtain wall manufacturers. It enables precise quoting through product configurators, real-time costing, labor optimization, and integration with CAD drawings for accurate takeoffs. Beyond estimating, it provides end-to-end workflow management, including production scheduling, inventory control, and CRM, making it a full enterprise solution.
Pros
- Highly accurate estimating with built-in optimization algorithms and material databases
- Seamless integration across estimating, production, and supply chain modules
- Customizable for complex fenestration products and large-scale operations
Cons
- Steep learning curve and extensive training required
- High implementation costs and long setup time
- Primarily suited for enterprises, less ideal for small shops
Best For
Large fenestration fabricators needing an integrated ERP with sophisticated estimating tied to production workflows.
Pricing
Custom quote-based pricing for enterprises, typically starting at $40,000-$100,000 annually depending on modules, users, and implementation.
RFMS
enterpriseManages estimating, job costing, and scheduling specifically for window and door fabricators.
Dynamic supplier pricing database that auto-updates window material costs in real-time
RFMS is a cloud-based estimating software tailored for residential construction professionals, providing digital takeoff, detailed estimating, and job costing tools. It supports window estimating through customizable assemblies, shape libraries, and integration with supplier pricing databases for accurate material costs. The platform also includes scheduling, invoicing, and mobile access, making it a full-suite solution for remodelers handling fenestration projects.
Pros
- Integrated digital takeoff with window shape libraries and assemblies
- Real-time supplier pricing updates for accurate window cost estimates
- Mobile app for on-site estimating and job tracking
Cons
- Steep learning curve for advanced features
- Interface feels dated compared to modern competitors
- Pricing can be high for solo contractors
Best For
Mid-sized remodeling contractors and builders who require robust takeoff and estimating integration for window and framing projects.
Pricing
Subscription-based, starting at around $149/month per user, with custom quotes for additional features and users.
Optimise
specializedOptimizes design, estimating, and manufacturing workflows for PVC-U window fabricators.
Proprietary optimization engine that automatically generates waste-minimizing cut lists and production schedules
Optimise from Eurosoft UK is a comprehensive estimating and optimization software tailored for the fenestration industry, focusing on windows, doors, and conservatories. It enables precise quoting, material take-offs, cost calculations, and production optimization through integrated CAD/CAM workflows. The tool streamlines operations from initial estimate to manufacturing, helping fabricators reduce waste and improve accuracy.
Pros
- Advanced optimization algorithms for minimizing material waste and generating efficient cut lists
- Seamless integration of estimating with CAD/CAM for end-to-end production workflows
- Highly customizable for UK-specific profiles, hardware, and compliance standards
Cons
- Steep learning curve due to extensive features and customization options
- Pricing can be prohibitive for small businesses without modular entry points
- Limited global adaptability outside UK/European fenestration standards
Best For
Medium-sized UK fenestration fabricators needing robust, integrated estimating and production optimization.
Pricing
Quote-based modular licensing, typically £1,000–£5,000+ annually per user/site depending on modules and scale.
Windowlink
specializedStreamlines quoting, ordering, and production control for window and door companies.
Integrated sectional pricing database that automatically pulls real-time costs from suppliers for highly accurate window estimates.
Windowlink by Business Micros is a comprehensive ERP-style software tailored for window and door fabricators, providing advanced estimating capabilities alongside CRM, scheduling, and production management. It excels in generating precise quotes by calculating costs for frames, glazing, hardware, and labor based on detailed specifications and supplier integrations. While robust for mid-sized operations, it focuses on streamlining the full workflow from quote to delivery.
Pros
- Powerful estimating engine with sectional pricing and supplier databases
- End-to-end integration from quoting to production scheduling
- Customizable reports and templates for accurate job costing
Cons
- Outdated interface that feels clunky compared to modern SaaS tools
- Steep learning curve requiring extensive training
- Limited cloud/mobile accessibility and scalability for small teams
Best For
Medium-sized window fabrication businesses needing integrated estimating and production management rather than standalone quoting tools.
Pricing
Custom enterprise pricing on request, typically starting at £500-£1,500/month based on modules, users, and customizations.
Planswift
specializedDigital takeoff and estimating software ideal for accurate window quantity and cost calculations from plans.
Drag-and-drop assemblies that allow instant application of window takeoff formulas across entire plans
PlanSwift is a digital takeoff and estimating software tailored for construction professionals, enabling rapid quantity takeoffs from PDFs, scanned plans, CAD files, and images. It excels in point-and-click measurements for items like window counts, rough openings, jambs, and sills through customizable assemblies and databases. While versatile across trades, it streamlines window estimating by automating calculations and generating detailed reports for bidding.
Pros
- Extremely fast point-and-click takeoffs saving hours on window quantity measurements
- Flexible assemblies and databases customizable for window-specific estimating like bucks and headers
- Seamless Excel export and integration with accounting software for cost analysis
Cons
- Not specialized for advanced window design or BIM integration compared to fenestration-focused tools
- Windows desktop-only with a moderate learning curve for complex assemblies
- High upfront cost with ongoing maintenance fees reducing value for small firms
Best For
Construction estimators and contractors handling mid-to-large projects who prioritize speed in digital plan takeoffs for window quantities.
Pricing
Perpetual license starts at $1,749 for Standard edition, plus ~20% annual maintenance; Enterprise options higher with subscription alternatives available.
Conclusion
The reviewed window estimating software offers varied capabilities, with three leading the pack: Windowmaker as the top choice, boasting comprehensive design, estimating, quoting, and manufacturing optimization. TKH Software and MiCASA follow closely, excelling in 3D design and integrated order processing respectively, making them strong alternatives for distinct needs. Each tool effectively addresses key workflows, ensuring a suitable fit for different business sizes and priorities.
Don’t wait—start with Windowmaker, the top-ranked tool, to streamline your processes and elevate your custom window and door operations
Tools Reviewed
All tools were independently evaluated for this comparison