In the following comparison, we will go over two big hitters in the window and door industry. Both companies are sold worldwide and have a massive offering of products.
Throughout the comparison, we will focus on each brand’s windows. We will show the ways that they are comparable in quality and affordability. However, there are a few differences to note that may tip a person in one direction or the other.
We are going to compare price, warranty, and customer service. In addition, we will take a look at three of their most common window series and how they compare to each other.
May the best window win!
A Quick Comparison
| Brand name | Pella Corporation | Andersen Corporation |
| Established | 1925 | 1903 |
| Product lines | Windows and doors | Windows and doors |
| Recent Proprietary Technologies | Rolscreen© retractable screen | Fibrex© material |
Brief History of Pella Corporation
After investing in a newly invented window screen that rolled up and down in 1925, Pete and Lucille Kuyper founded Pella Corporation in the small town of Pella, Iowa. The traditional American values of honesty and a genuine desire to enrich the lives of those around them were at the heart of Pella Corporation’s foundation.
The Kuyper family name lives on after nearly 100 years, with the legacy of Pella being handed down generation after generation. From that first rollup screen, the company has been awarded over 150 patents. The Pella team is committed to continuing with that same innovation that has brought them this far.
Even as recent as 2021, Pella is still winning awards for its innovative and durable designs.
Brief History of Andersen Corporation
Before it was a window and door company, Andersen Corporation began as the Andersen Lumber Company in 1903. It was founded by Hans Jacob Andersen and his family, Danish immigrants in Hudson, Wisconsin. The first 30 years of this company were a time of change and growth. In 1929, they changed the name of their company to the Andersen Frame Company before finally arriving at Andersen Corporation in 1937.
After selling his lumberyards to dedicate all his efforts to the window frame business, Hans built the company’s first factory in 1913 in what is now Bayport, Minnesota. This is where the Andersen Corporation’s headquarters remains to this day, over 100 years later.
Pella Corporation Manufacturing
Pella proudly supports the many communities that it is a part of. With over 200 showrooms across the United States and Canada and 17 manufacturing locations, this company employs more than 8000 people. These facilities are all responsible for manufacturing residential and commercial windows and doors.
Andersen Corporation Manufacturing
Employing more than 12,000 people, Andersen windows are manufactured in North America and Europe. Most impressively, their production facility headquarters in Bayport, MI, is 2.5 million square feet and takes up over 65 acres. Also, in their American production facilities, Andersen has earned the EPA’s 2021 ENERGY STAR Partner of the Year – Sustained Excellence award for their dedication to fighting climate change and creating a better future through energy-efficient solutions in their manufacturing.
Pella Corporation Product Line
Pella has made high-quality windows and doors for many years. Still, they are perhaps best known for their variety of shades and window coverings. Some of their earliest patent technologies, such as Rolscreen© or Slimshade©, are still popular today, along with the more recent screen patent, VividView©.
In 2015, this innovative spirit they are known for showed up in their release of Insynctive© technology. Not only is this tech connected through a phone app for monitoring, but blinds and shades can also be controlled with the touch of a button on a smartphone.
Andersen Corporation Product Line
In the spirit of its absolute dedication to sustainability, it’s no shock that Andersen is best known for its use of Fibrex© material in many of its window frames. This material is made from polymer and reclaimed wood, so even in its production is has an environment-first focus. Not only is Fibrex© extraordinarily durable and weather resistant, but it also insulates far better than aluminum, vinyl, or other wooden frames. So right from material construction through to its installation in a home, Andersen’s focus on protecting our environment is outstanding.
Pella Corporation vs. Andersen Corporation: Price
Both Pella and Andersen have windows to suit any budget. Like anything, you get what you pay for, but they both have window series in the few hundred dollar range up to a couple of thousand dollars per window.
Pella Corporation
Encompass by Pella is Pella’s budget series of windows. With its vinyl construction, it can offer an affordable option for someone not looking to spend big bucks on windows. However, it is still available in numerous window styles for most construction scenarios.
Architect Series Reserve is the cream of the crop window series by Pella. They have a gorgeous high-end wood construction with a price tag to match.
Andersen Corporation
Coming in at a little higher price than the competing Encompass by Pella, Andersen’s 100 Series windows are still a bargain-priced window. Even with the economical pricing, the 100 Series still boasts Andersen’s Fibrex© material.
Renewal by Andersen and the Architectural Collection A-Series are two equally high-end models that Anderson has. The Renewal line is entirely Fibrex©, but the Architectural Collection is available in wood or Fibrex©.
Pella Corporation vs. Andersen Corporation: Warranty
At the end of the day, a product is only as good as its maker’s willingness to stand behind its quality. It will come as no surprise to learn that two of the biggest names in residential and commercial windows have outstanding warranty coverage. Both are comparable, but one brand has a slight edge over its competition.
Pella Corporation
Across the board, Pella has a limited lifetime warranty on almost all their windows regardless of their series. This warranty is non-transferable except for some commercial applications. And in some window series, the exception exists for transfer, but it is converted to a 10-year limited warranty instead.
Of course, standard exclusions to the warranty exist. Pella will only warranty manufacturer defects.
Andersen Corporation
Andersen’s warranty coverage is virtually identical to Pella’s in their limited-lifetime coverage, with one significant difference. All Andersen window series have the exclusive Owner-2-Owner coverage. Their warranties are transferable and retain a 20-year coverage on all manufacturer defects.
Pella Corporation vs. Andersen Corporation: Customer Service
Windows is one product that we don’t often associate with the need for customer service. Apart from the purchase and installation by a local contractor, we don’t give much thought to our windows. This is especially true if you buy a high-end window because there aren’t often issues. However, suppose something does go wrong with a window. In that case, it’s important to know that we will receive good customer service—even if we are calling about warranty 10 or 20 years later.
Pella Corporation
Their website has a decent “Help Topics” section that can potentially assist customers with common questions without making a phone call. This may be a good thing because Pella’s customer support is often a significant complaint, according to many consumer affairs reviews. Regardless of their customer support issues, Pella still receives nearly 4/5 stars overall.
Andersen Corporation
Andersen’s self-help section is comprehensive on their website. They have everything from FAQs to warranty documentation and other support resources for customers with a problem. However, it is a bit less straightforward for getting a real person on the phone or email than Pella’s website. Again, according to consumer affairs, Andersen has had its struggles with customer support. Still, like Pella, it also has nearly 4/5 stars overall.
Head-to-Head: Encompass by Pella vs. Andersen’s 100 Series
Both brands’ economy lines are super affordable. The best part of the affordability is that each companies’ excellent warranties back every window. If budget is the only consideration in this battle, then Pella would be the winner in this comparison.
- Our Verdict: The bottom dollar isn’t everything, though. We feel that the slight jump in price to Andersen’s 100 series is worth it due to its Fibrex© construction and Owner-2-Owner warranty.
Head-to-Head: Pella’s Lifestyle Series vs. Andersen’s 400 Series
Once again, these opposing mid-level series come in at almost identical pricing. Both options have wooden frames with multiple styles of windows available. Pella’s Lifestyle Series won the ENERGY STAR Most Efficient Award in 2021 and has excellent noise reduction. Andersen’s 400 series is unique in its multiple choices for glass. Of course, the exclusive, transferable warranty is a bonus.
- Our Verdict: Both brands have their pluses in this category. Those considered, we have to give this one to Pella simply for the slight savings compared to Andersen
Head-to-Head: Pella’s Architect Series Reserve vs. Renewal by Andersen
Now we arrive at the best windows these two brands have to offer. Again, price is too close to be a deciding factor, so we have to look at some other positives.
Pella offers multiple options for its Architect Series frames. Wood and aluminum-clad wood frames will add a traditional touch to a new home’s window package. Alternatively, aluminum-clad wood designs will give it a contemporary look. There are also other features such as factory-installed security sensors or protrude aluminum cladding.
A couple of things that make Renewal by Andersen stand out are the heating and cooling cost savings related to the triple-pane glass and Fibrex© material frames. They are also custom-made, so customization options are almost limitless.
- Our Verdict: This is a tough category because it’s hard to find a clear victor once you get to these high-end windows. With all the positives in mind, Andersen takes a slight edge in this category due to the highly eco-friendly nature of the windows from production through many, many years after installation.
Overall Brand Reputation
Energy Saving
- Edge: Andersen Corporation
In almost every series of windows, Andersen comes out as the victor in this comparison. Its economy 100 Series shines with its energy-saving quality compared to Pella due to its Fibrex© frame construction.
Price
- Edge: Pella Corporation
While both brands are comparable in price, Pella takes the edge here because prices start a little lower in every category and, in most, don’t go as high as Andersen. This is especially contrasted by the fact that there is no significant drop in choosing Pella over its competitor.
Durability
- Edge: Pella Corporation
This is a small victory for Pella. They are only getting it because they have a few more vinyl and fiberglass frames than Andersen, who only has wood and Fibrex© frames. Fibrex© material is arguably more durable than vinyl or fiberglass but is only available in two full lines and some of another, whereas Pella has four lines in vinyl and fiberglass.
Design
- Edge: Pella and Andersen
It’s worth noting the tie in this category to show there is no “winner-by-a-mile” in this competition. Both brands have incredible designs, from their entry-level windows right up to their high-end models. If one brand must be chosen, Andersen has a very slight advantage in customization for high-end designs because they have multiple series.
Conclusion
As we saw above, both Pella and Andersen Corporations produce incredible windows. It was hard to find a clear winner in most cases, but there were a few noticeable differences between the two.
Regarding the dollars and cents, Pella is slightly more affordable without sacrificing quality.
Overall, as suggested by price, Andersen seems to be a superior brand. It may not have as many patented technologies. Still, its commitment to being an environmentally friendly company is at the forefront of everything it does.
Featured Image Credit: Left: Pella window: Pella.com | Right: Andersen window: Andersen.com
Contents
- 1 A Quick Comparison
- 2 Brief History of Pella Corporation
- 3 Brief History of Andersen Corporation
- 4 Pella Corporation Manufacturing
- 5 Andersen Corporation Manufacturing
- 6 Pella Corporation Product Line
- 7 Andersen Corporation Product Line
- 8 Pella Corporation vs. Andersen Corporation: Price
- 8.1 Pella Corporation
- 8.2 Andersen Corporation
- 9 Pella Corporation vs. Andersen Corporation: Warranty
- 9.1 Pella Corporation
- 9.2 Andersen Corporation
- 10 Pella Corporation vs. Andersen Corporation: Customer Service
- 10.1 Pella Corporation
- 10.2 Andersen Corporation
- 11 Head-to-Head: Encompass by Pella vs. Andersen’s 100 Series
- 12 Head-to-Head: Pella’s Lifestyle Series vs. Andersen’s 400 Series
- 13 Head-to-Head: Pella’s Architect Series Reserve vs. Renewal by Andersen
- 14 Overall Brand Reputation
- 14.1 Energy Saving
- 14.2 Price
- 14.3 Durability
- 14.4 Design
- 15 Conclusion
FAQs
Is Pella windows more expensive than Andersen? ›
Andersen is more expensive than Pella. Andersen is a luxury brand with an extensive history in the windows industry, resulting in higher prices.
Are Anderson windows better than other windows? ›Yes, the Andersen A-series is worth it if you're looking for budget-friendly windows that are energy efficient and low-maintenance. These windows are made from Andersen's signature Fibrex composite material, and the company claims they last twice as long as vinyl windows.
Are Andersen Windows at Home Depot lower quality? ›Are Andersen Windows at Home Depot Lower Quality? No, Andersen windows are the same quality regardless of where you buy them. Usually, they are sold at Home Depot during certain times of the year when there is a sale on their products.
Do Andersen Windows increase home value? ›Andersen windows have brand recognition and will therefore add resale value to your home. When you are looking to sell your home, you can get more money for it by installing Andersen windows. However, because of the quality, Andersen windows are more expensive than other brands. They are well-built and made to last.
Who has the best house windows? ›- 10 Best Window Replacement Companies of 2023.
- Andersen Windows.
- JELD-WEN.
- Milgard.
- Harvey Windows.
- Pella.
- Mi Windows.
- Marvin Windows.
Pella's windows tend to be cheaper than Andersen windows. But this can vary based on your window selection and installation cost factors.
Who is Anderson windows biggest competitor? ›- Milgard Manufacturing LLC. 3,000. $813.6M.
- Marvin. 7,000. $1.9B.
- Pella Corp. 3,631. $964.3M. ...
- JELD-WEN Inc. 24,700. $4.9B. ...
- Sierra Pacific Windows Co. 3,218. $1.8B.
- Masonite Corp. 10,300. $2.7B.
Top luxury window trends include thin frames. You can choose narrow frames made from aluminum or fiberglass. Either option has the strength to hold big pieces of glass while displaying a look that's slender and inconspicuous. This type of frame maximizes your exterior views while letting more light into your home.
What is average cost per window with Renewal by Andersen? ›Renewal by Andersen Pricing and Costs
Based on customer reviews and a limited number of online retailers such as Home Depot, the company's windows cost $680 to $2,700. Each quote will vary based on your selected products and the number of windows being installed. Your quote will also include any customization requests.
Lifespan: Vinyl windows have a lifespan of 20 years vs. the 35 years of Andersen composite windows.
Are Andersen windows high end? ›
Yes, Andersen Windows use high-quality materials, including its Fibrex material, wood, vinyl, aluminum and fiberglass. Do Andersen windows have a lifetime warranty? Specific Andersen Windows products, such as the vinyl windows and patio doors, come with a limited lifetime warranty.
What is special about Andersen Windows? ›The Andersen Difference
When you choose Andersen, we not only provide you with high-performing, dependable products, we support them with exceptional service. New windows and doors can be a major investment, but if you choose wisely, you're rewarded with better light, comfort, added security and energy efficiency.
Window Style
In terms of operable windows, hinged-sash windows such as casement and awning windows are typically the most energy efficient as they create a firm weathertight seal when closed.
In conclusion, Renewal by Andersen of Portland windows is extremely energy-efficient with exceptional soundproofing characteristics.
Are Pella windows worth the cost? ›Pella is a solid choice… with one caveat
They do a robust amount of testing to ensure high performance and quality. They have great customer service, and go out of their way to make what the customer is looking for, as long as it fits within their manufacturing limitations.
The top fiberglass window brands for builders in 2021 are Marvin, Pella, and Milgard. All three are excellent choices for builders, especially for their known product performance. Customers also preferred these brands for their better warranties, product availability, and reasonable prices.
Which window is most expensive to replace? ›Wood windows tend to be the most expensive. Many brands offer various wood types, such as pine, maple, and oak, for the interior parts of the window. Wood-frame windows can be either painted or stained at the factory, or you can add it to your to-do list.
How long do Pella windows last? ›Pella Replacement Windows Longevity
Pella vinyl windows last about 15-30 years, depending on series and materials. Wood frames may require periodic painting.
Pella Outperforms Marvin with Unmatched Strength and Lasting Durability. Pella's proprietary fiberglass material is the strongest material for windows and patio doors, engineered for lasting durability.
Who is Andersen rival? ›Andersen Windows Corporation competitors include Pella Corporation, JELD WEN and Marvin.
Which windows are most loved? ›
- Windows NT 4.0 (1996) ...
- Windows 98 SE (1999) ...
- Windows For Workgroups 3.11 (1993) ...
- Windows 10 (2015) ...
- Windows XP SP2 (2004) ...
- Windows 95 (1995) ...
- Windows 2000 (2000) ...
- Windows 7 (2009)
1. Andersen Windows. About the Brand: Andersen Windows is a leading brand in the fenestration industry and carries a wide range of products in addition to windows. Founded more than a century ago, Andersen Windows is one of the most well-regarded names in the fenestration industry.
What is the most popular window color? ›White has long been the go-to colour for windows. And it's easy to see why. It always works, both inside and out. But not only is white not the only option, sometimes it's not the best option.
Which window type is easiest to clean? ›Double hung wins out for easiest to clean. Double hung windows allow both sashes to raise, lower and tilt-in for cleaning both sashes from inside of the home. Slider windows are easy to clean as well, both are operable – allowing you to easily reach through the opening to clean the exterior of the window.
What makes a high quality window? ›Having any type of Low-E is better than none at all. The thickness of the glass itself is also important. You want to look for windows that have double-strength, or 1/8th inch glass. Stronger glass has less ability to flex or droop, and therefore less opportunity to have seal failure.
Which window has life span of 50 years? ›Which of the below material of window has life span of 50 years? Explanation: UPVC has very good thermal resistance and durability. The maintenance required is very low. It has an average cost and can thus stay for 50 years.
What is the downside of vinyl windows? ›Disadvantages of vinyl windows:
Their flexibility also limits their size and the weight of the glass they frame. Many people find them less elegant or natural-looking than wood. Vinyl window frames can soften, warp, twist and bow if heat builds up within the frame. They are not particularly strong or rigid.
Vinyl Windows
Does replacing windows add value? Yes, replacing worn out windows with vinyl ones does boost a home's value, as long as the window installation is done the right way. When they sell, homeowners can recover as much as 71 percent of the upfront remodeling cost of new windows.
Based on our analysis of customer reviews, Renewal by Andersen features fairly high prices when compared to competitors that offer similar products and services. This price difference is because Renewal by Andersen is a highly reputable brand with a long history in the windows industry.
What is the difference between Andersen and Renewal by Andersen? ›Andersen Windows manufactures windows and sells them through a network of authorized dealers, whereas Renewal by Andersen is made up of franchises that sell and install one line of home replacement windows that are manufactured by Andersen.
How much should you spend on replacement windows? ›
The Cost of Window Replacement. Replacement windows cost an average of $700 but can range from $300 to $1,200. Window prices vary based on the type of window material, glass type, style, and labor costs. The average price of window materials is $80 to $1,300 but can vary by durability and customization.
What time of year is best to replace windows? ›Fall is a great time of year for window replacements. You can still seal up your home to get the most energy savings possible in the winter months to come. The few highlights of replacing your windows in the fall are: Temperate weather brings down heating and cooling costs.
Which Anderson series is the best? ›A Series – Architectural Series
It's a popular choice among architects and designers seeking to create an authentic architectural or historical style. A-Series is also the best performing and most energy efficient window series from Andersen, making it a great choice for anyone seeking a top-quality window.
Andersen® casement window operators are designed with a degree of free play prior to engagement of the operator gears. Because the window opens and closes when the gears move and engage, a slight delay may be noticed when the operator handle is turned to open or close the window sash.
Is Marvin or Andersen better? ›In terms of window manufacturers, both Andersen and Marvin are well-known, but most owners feel that Marvin has a wider market, so it's easier to acquire their products. However, if you're looking for variety, warranty coverage, and the most value for your money, Andersen is your best bet.
Is Marvin better than Anderson? ›They both offer top-of-the-line products at competitive price. Regarding Marvin Elevate vs. Andersen Fibrex, Marvin wins out in a superior product at a comparable price. The frame is more durable, and the color is not at risk of washing out.
Is Pella a good brand? ›As one of the most recognizable window manufacturers on the market, Pella has a reputation for high-quality products with excellent workmanship.
Are Andersen Windows more expensive than Pella windows? ›Andersen is more expensive than Pella. Andersen is a luxury brand with an extensive history in the windows industry, resulting in higher prices.
Are expensive windows worth it? ›High quality windows offer a ton of value
When you choose fiberglass windows, which are more expensive than other options, you won't have to paint them, which saves time, hassle, and money. There are other benefits too, like using fiberglass that doesn't rust, chip, rot, peel, or warp.
2022 Window & Door Tax Credit. You may be entitled to a tax credit of up to $500*** if you installed energy-efficient windows, skylights, doors or other qualifying items in 2022**. Current federal tax credits for certain energy-efficient improvements to existing homes have been extended through December 31, 2022.
What type of window has best insulation? ›
Fiberglass window frames are dimensionally stable and have air cavities that can be filled with insulation, giving them superior thermal performance compared to wood or uninsulated vinyl.
Which type of window has the highest heat loss? ›According to www.efficientwindows.org, single-glazed windows with clear glass allow “the highest transfer of energy (i.e., heat loss or heat gain depending on local climate conditions) while permitting the highest daylight transmission.” No wonder such windows are practically extinct in residential architecture.
Do Renewal by Andersen windows increase home value? ›Andersen Windows Increase the Resale Value
However, because of the quality, Andersen windows are more expensive than other brands. They are well-built and made to last. You do not compromise on customization for quality when you choose an Andersen window.
Renewal by Andersen sells only one main product line: a Fibrex® composite window, made from Andersen's proprietary blend of PVC and reclaimed wood sawdust left over from the manufacture of wood windows by Andersen windows. Because it's 40% wood, it's much stronger than vinyl alone, with a narrower frame.
Does Anderson guarantee their windows? ›What's Covered Under the Standard Renewal by Andersen Warranty. There's a 10-year limited warranty on the frame, sash, and locking mechanism on your Renewal by Andersen installation windows and a lifetime warranty on the window installation.
What windows are most expensive? ›Wood windows tend to be the most expensive. Many brands offer various wood types, such as pine, maple, and oak, for the interior parts of the window. Wood-frame windows can be either painted or stained at the factory, or you can add it to your to-do list.
Which windows are the most affordable? ›You can count on vinyl being the cheapest windows out there. A double-pane window that is double hung with limited coating is going to be your choice. This window is lasting and should meet your needs. There's nothing wrong with the style of window, but you will have to make a few concessions.
How long will Pella windows last? ›Pella Replacement Windows Longevity
Pella vinyl windows last about 15-30 years, depending on series and materials. Wood frames may require periodic painting.
- Windows NT 4.0 (1996) ...
- Windows 98 SE (1999) ...
- Windows For Workgroups 3.11 (1993) ...
- Windows 10 (2015) ...
- Windows XP SP2 (2004) ...
- Windows 95 (1995) ...
- Windows 2000 (2000) ...
- Windows 7 (2009)
The Cost of Window Replacement. Replacement windows cost an average of $700 but can range from $300 to $1,200. Window prices vary based on the type of window material, glass type, style, and labor costs. The average price of window materials is $80 to $1,300 but can vary by durability and customization.
What windows are better than vinyl? ›
Fiberglass windows are up to eight times stronger than vinyl because their frames are reinforced with strong glass fibers. With proper care, fiberglass windows can last 50 years or longer, while vinyl windows last up to 30 years.
What rating does Pella windows have among the top national brands? ›Pella generated a Net Trust Quotient Score of 116.7 and the 5 Star Trust Rating among people actively shopping a window.
What is the best window Pella makes? ›The Pella Architect Series Wood Window is the flagship of the Pella product lines, it's the window that they're best known for.
What time of year are windows the cheapest? ›...
The Verdict on Winter
- Materials and installation can be much less expensive.
- Replacing windows from one room at a time can minimize heat loss.
- You won't have to work around the contractors' busy schedules.
The most efficient window will have a fiberglass frame — which is the most insulative frame material — triple-pane glass, a Low-E coating and window tinting. Other energy-efficient options include vinyl and composite window frames and double-pane glass.