Home : Replacement Windows Reviews : Andersen 100 Series
Andersen 100 Series Windows And Patio Doors
The Andersen 100 Series uses a fibrex composite frame, made from a mix of extruded PVC and wood. Designed to compete with high end vinyl windows, the 100 Model is a high quality composite window that is available in tons of exterior and interior colors and finishes, making it one of the most versatile windows on the market in terms of its overall look. This is perhaps its biggest selling point for many consumers. If you’d like our free list of recommended windows, or free expert advice on your window and door project quotes, fill out our free online form and we'll help you the rest of the way!
Dane - Site Editor - Original Publish Date - March 15, 2015
Page Last Update: January 3, 2026
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The Andersen 100 window was released in the Southwest region back in 2010 and was gradually introduced in other areas of the country after it proved popular during its test run. In terms of performance, the window is decent, but not great. On a design note, the upper sash is a little bit narrower than the bottom. The window is generally considered a good, solid product; however, some contractors think it is somewhat overpriced for the "just okay" performance numbers. In particular is the .20 air infiltration rating that is not a very good number. However, the U-factor, SHGC, VT and CR all look pretty solid though. I would give the Andersen 100 Series a 4.3 out of 5 stars rating.
Anderson 100 vs Wincore 7700
Dane, could you compare the Andersen 100 and Wincore 7700 for me? Both the same price so that's not a factor. Was wondering which option you would pick if you were replacing your windows.
Wincore Windows Reviews
George - Homeowner - from 2024
[Site Editor's Answer]
George, I might put these two pretty close to one another in terms of overall quality. I might rate them each a 7 out of 10 overall - decent for sure. For me, it would come down to price - which is equivalent - and the company doing the work. This is going to be the biggest difference maker. ( Wincore Windows vs Andersen )
Dane - Site Editor - from 2024
Andersen 100 Series Reviews
Hi Dane, I come across your website for window replacement. It's very helpful. I am planning to replace 14 windows for my townhouse, which is built in 1996 and located next to the main road in a crowded community. the major motivation for the windows replacement is noise reduction. So I would love to know your picks for best soundproof windows. I received 3 quotes below. It would be greatly appreciated if you can share your recommendations or thoughts on it.
1. from Lowes, Pella 250 Series + triple panes option, $6700. (More Pella 250 Series Reviews)
2.from a local store, Simonton 5500, $6700-$7000.
3. from Homedepot, Anderson 100 + stc upgrade package, $7700.
The above is window cost only excluding installation. Which one you would pick? thanks in advance!
Regards.
Zeng - Homeowner - from 2023
[Site Editor's Answer]
Zeng, my picks would be first the Simonton 5500 for $6700 (assuming good installation reviews). You might ask what the triple pane option would run on these if noise reduction is your primary concern. Next up would be the Lowes, Pella 250 + triple panes option, $6700.
The one caveat here is that I'm always suspect of the Big Box stores installation because you never quite know who is showing up to your house and what quality of work you can expect.
Let me know if you find out the window installation costs as this might factor into my opinion and it's always interesting to hear what different companies charge.
Dane - Site Editor - from 2023
Andersen 100 Series Reviews
Dane, we're replacing 10 windows - 4 have eyebrow tops, which definitely adds to the price tag. We received an estimate on the Anlin Del Mar windows for $22.7K completely installed. We also received a quote of $22.4K on the Andersen 100 series. More or less a wash. In your opinion, are these fair prices?
Billy - Homeowner - from 2023
[Website Editor Reply]
10 openings with 4 eyebrow tops for $22K? I have a hard time saying this is fair pricing. However, because the Andersen windows price quote came in right at that same price point, it lends a bit of support to the idea that this is close to fair market pricing. A few more bids will bring some more clarity -- I'd continue to grab a few more quotes and then let's regroup and find you a great window at a fair price!
Dane - Website Editor - from 2023
Andersen Windows Reviews Alabama
Hi, stumbled upon your site and love the advice. Building a new home in coastal Alabama. Windows need to have impact glass and will be subject to high heat and humidity, lots of rain and salt air. I will be using a few casement windows, 2 large 8’ tall sliders and the other windows are fixed pane. I like what I see and read about the Andersen Series 100. Your thoughts on them in this environment or recommendations for others to look at. Thanks for your help.
Scott - Homeowner - from 2020
[Website Editor Reply]
Hi Scott, so the Andersen 100 is a good window, not a world beater, but a solid composite window. It should hold up reasonably well in the heat and humidity. I would also see if you can’t find a Sunrise dealer. I like their windows better than the Andersen 100 composite window. Your options in Alabama may be limited though. The Andersen 100 might be a nice fit.
Tim - Website Editor - from 2020
Andersen 100 For Do It Yourself
Hello, I want to replace windows in my sunroom. I would like good quality windows at a good price. I live in upstate NY. Usually, when I look at brands, if they have three models I pick the middle one. In addition, I would like windows with as much glass as possible. So far I’m thinking to get quotes for Okna and Sunrise. I’m planning to install myself if you know of a company that has a do-it-yourself pricing. If it matters, the windows will be sliders and 48 wide by 48, and 48 x 60. Thank you so much. Love the site!
Val - Homeowner - from 2019
[Site Editor's Answer]
Hi Val, so you may have a hard time with the do-it-yourself route if you want to buy windows like Okna and Sunrise. Unfortunately, these companies use a dealer/distributor system that rarely allows for consumers to buy direct. Always worth a shot though -- call up the main headquarters of each company and ask if they would be willing to sell direct to you.
I can't think of any companies offhand that sell direct to consumers, but if I think of any I'll let you know. Same goes for you -- if you find any, please let me know so I can help anyone who may have the same issue.
If that doesn't work, you are stuck with the big box stores. I've found Dixieline carries some good brands -- out west they sell Marvin, Milgard, and Simonton. I would suggest buying the best of what the big box stores sell and you have yourself a mid range vinyl window. The Andersen 100 model is sometimes sold in the big box stores and this is a pretty good series as well.
Tim - Site Editor - from 2019
100 Series vs Milgard Tuscany
I am in Seattle and am replacing 3 south facing windows in a bay window configuration. I have bids on the Milgard Tuscany ($1600 material only) and Anderson 100’s ($1500 material only). I want a good replacement vinyl window at a fair price. Since I probably will want to replace more of the windows on an ongoing basis, I would like a company that will be around awhile.
I note on your site you favor the Milgard Tuscany, but have made some comments about wet rainy weather. The Anderson 100’s looked good until I read some reviews. Do you have any other suggestions for my climate? Pella also seems popular in this area, though I have not researched or priced them.
Thanks for any input.
Mary - Homeowner - from 2019
[Site Editor's Answer]
Mary, in general, Milgard makes good vinyl and aluminum windows for the west coast. My concern has always been the design uses a capture sill to funnel water through the frame and out the weep holes.
I think between the Milgard Tuscany and the Andersen 100, I'd have to lean towards the Andersen. Especially because the cost is lower, which is usually not the case.
Andersen makes a good product and if you get good installation, you should be just fine. To be honest, Milgard and Andersen are big enough companies that you are going to have poor reviews on either one simply because of the volume. The key is to find a really good installer who has a long standing relationship with Andersen and likes the product.
Recommendations in Seattle are tricky. A high end Simonton window is probably worth looking at, along with the Marvin Integrity, and perhaps an Amerimax Craftsman Portrait series.
Tim - Site Editor - from 2019
Andersen 100 vs. Jen Weld Builders Vinyl
We are building a 7000 square foot home in Phoenix and need 40 windows. Our contractor wants either Andersen 100 or Jen Weld builders windows. These both seem like cheap windows. after doing research I’m concerned about the quality of these choices.
Is there some other options I could give him to price out so we aren't stuck with a budget window for our brand new house!!!!
Thanks.
Monica - Homeowner - from 2018
[Website Editor Reply]
Monica, the Jeld Wen builder vinyl is a poorly built window but the Andersen 100 is a decent composite window that is quite nice looking. Performance wise, it isn't all that impressive though, but you really need a window that is going to keep out the heat.
I might take a look at Simonton Impressions, Milgard Tuscany, and a Anlin Del Mar. Price these out -- they are going to perform better than the Andersen, but might not be as nice looking as the suggestions I made.
Dane - Website Editor - from 2018
Andersen vs Silverline
I haven't seem to be able to find any Distributors of those brands in my area, Atlanta, Georgia. I recently had someone from Andersen Windows come out and she is giving me quotes for both the Andersen 100 line and the mid-level silver line brand which is a vinyl brand by Andersen. What is your take on vinyl versus wood given my needs, and what do you think of those Andersen brands?
Sam - Homeowner - from 2018
[Website Editor Reply]
Sam, the Andersen 100 composite window is a decent enough window. It uses the same basic frame as the Renewal By Andersen. I think I went with this window I would upgrade to a better glass package and see if I could do a reinforced sill or foam fills in the frame for some more structural support.
Pretty much everything from Silverline is junk. Their premium 9500 series with the same upgrades might be the only way I would recommend them.
Tim - Website Editor - from 2018
100 Series vs Pella 450 Wood Window
A Pella dealer has recommended their 450 proline wood clad window that carries a lifetime warranty on both the wood and glass. Not sure I buy this. The Pella quote for two fixed frame half circle windows and two other fixed frame windows was came out to $16,295.
An Anderson has recommended their fibrex window it is a wood and Polly composite. The Anderson quote was for 17 windows and came out to $33,482.
Dorine - Homeowner - from 2018
[Website Editor Reply]
Dorine, the Pella 450 series is a decent wood window but the price they are charging you seems outrageous. That's over $4K a window, how is that even possible?
The Andersen quote looks good at a little under $500 per window. This is the clear and obvious winner to me.
Tim - Website Editor - from 2018
Andersen 100 vs. ProVia Endure
Hello Tim, we are in the process of purchasing new windows for our home which was built in the 80’s. Currently we have Anderson wood Windows. A salesman from Renewal by Anderson came out to our home and quoted us a price of $27,000. We also looked at Anderson windows at Home Depot. We are able to purchase new construction windows since we are replacing the vinyl siding on our house.
We are still waiting on a quote from them. Today we visited a local hardware store that carries Provia windows. We have never heard of them before but he said they are very good windows.
This process can be so overwhelming! We are not looking for the very best or most expensive window but we do want a good quality window with a good warranty. We live in Canton Ohio (close to the headquarters of Provia). Can you please help us make a decision as to which windows you recommend. Please feel free to suggest others that I haven’t mentioned.
Thank you so much for your help. It is greatly appreciated.
Debbie - Homeowner - from 2018
[Website Editor Reply]
Debbie, yes the process is very confusing and it can be difficult to wade through all of the static. RBA tends to be very high in terms of their bids and I don't think their product warrants that high of a price. There is much better value out there.
Hi Tim, I am so glad I ran across your website ? it is very informative. I live in Northern Virginia and have replaced most of the windows in the house with Alside Ultimate 2000 (can?t seem to find this model in any reviews or on their website). I used a reputable contractor to do the installation and am pleased with his work and all is well at this point.
Tony, you are correct that it is very difficult to find reputable window manufacturers that will sell directly to consumers. The best window I've found is probably the Andersen 100 composite frame. With a good glass package, that window is better than the Alside 2000 model in my opinion.
What do you think of the Sunrise Vanguard window? We saw them and they looked nice. We have to replace fourteen windows and have quotes from Sunrise Vanguard for $13,895, Anderson 200 for $25,000, Renewal By Anderson for $33,000, and Simonton for $16,000.
Mary, I love when I get these questions because they are so easy and you are going to love the answer. The Sunrise Vanguard is the best of the windows, better than Renewal, the Andersen 200 and anything that simonton makes. Plus they are the cheapest of the bids you have. Go with the Vanguard, save yourself some money and rest assured you are getting a great window!
I was told by a salesman, that the Anderson 100 series and the Renewal by Anderson windows, have the same glass thickness. Is this true?
Jill, the standard Andersen 100 and standard RBA should come with a 1/2 inch double strength glass. So yes, I believe that's true, although you would want to double check that with the rep when you order the windows. Of course, you could custom order different glass on either if you were so inclined.
We're building a new home and have 12 single casements, 5 three lite casements, and 7 two-lite casements. Basically lots of casement windows! Is the Sunrise worth the extra cost?
Matt, Sunrise is a good window, but this is an expensive bid on the face of it.The Andersen quote is much more in line with what I was thinking. The Andersen 100 window isn't as good as the Sunrise, but you've got to either get the Sunrise bid down or consider going with the 100 Andersen. The Alliance bid isn't a window I would recommend.
Let me first thank you for the opportunity that you afford us nervous Nelly's in making better informed choices in the replacement window nightmare.
Robert, I'm glad that you did find the site and re-thought the RBA, it's just so pricey and not worth the cost in my opinion.
Hi Tim, We are building our first custom home. We are looking at bids for 39 windows, one sliding glass door, and three 7 foot fixed tempered glass windows.
Carol, congratulations on the custom home project. Yes, Milgard does paint their vinyl windows, although they do offer a lifetime warranty on the exterior vinyl finishes, which would give me some sense of relief as to the quality. (https://www.milgard.com/premium-vinyl-finishes-clay) I wouldn't be shocked if it was more than $5K, premium finishes can add 30% to the total price of the window. Milgard makes a durable product, in fact they make a special desert line in Texas (you may want to ask your dealer if it's worth looking at the specifics of these windows).
We like the fiberglass windows from Marvin, but think they are out of our price range. Are Anderson 100 rate close in performance? Marvin estimate is $25,000 and Anderson is $18,00. What is your opinion?
Derek, the Marvin is a better window, although they make two models, the integrity and the Infinity. The Infinity is the better of those two. The Andersen 100 is a decent window to be sure. In terms of performance, they are probably pretty close to the Marvin fiberglass options.
Hi - I live in southern CO & am working on a bedroom remodel and replacing 4 slider windows and one fixed for better heat efficiency. Trying to choose between Anderson 100 series, Milgard Tuscany, and Marvin Integrity windows. All 3 quotes are fairly reasonable. Any thoughts to consider?
Joanna, it doesn't surprise me that all three quotes are similar -- ironically you have a composite frame, vinyl frame and fiberglass frame in those three bids so material wise, you are all over the board. I sort of like the Marvin Integrity, although the Andersen 100 is quite nice looking as well. The Tuscany would probably offer the better initial energy efficiency, but maybe not so over the long term. Does the Integrity dealer also offer the Marvin Infinity -- it might cost another $75 a window, but the Infinity would be my pick hands down over the other three.
I priced and sized the Anderson 100 series windows at Home Depot. The sizes are a few inches smaller than my current windows - but all the exterior frames are rotted and need to be reconstructed.
Linda, I would price out both options. Your contractor might be able to build out your frames rather easily and might not charge that much. Price out both ways and see which one makes the most sense.
Dane, thanks for the response. I was hoping to see a bit more of price breakdowns, and am particularly interested in installing the windows myself. I'm currently under orders from the city of Minneapolis to do a large amount of lead abatement, and I therefore must either go through their certified list of approved contractors (a certification in addition to the national EPA certification) or do it myself.
Drew, I can't give you more of a price breakdown because there are so many factors that go into how windows are priced out…lots of features, upgrades, installation requirements etc.
Dane, I'm trying to make a decision on having new windows installed. I have some Renewal by Andersen made of Fibrex. I have a question, why does Home Depot's lowest price window (100) frame made of Fibrex and the more expensive have wood.
Jim, the Andersen 100 window and the Renewal By Andersen are both made from Fibrex, a composite material of wood and vinyl that are combined together to create a "stronger" material bond. I?m not sure about their claim, but I think it's a pretty solid frame material in general. The Andersen 100 series are typically sold off the shelf at HD in the $275 range before any upgrades or installation gets thrown in (let's double it and then some for these options and come up with $600). The typically double hung RBA with installation quote I hear is around $1200. That's a big difference for windows that are made out of the same frame material.
I need to replace 5 double hung wood clad windows for my home in Oakland, CA. Have a bid on the Simonton 6200 and the Andersen 100 Series. The Simonton has a lifetime warranty while Andersen is only 20 years.
Vivian, the Andersen 100 is the better option. Simonton 6200 VantagePointe is at best a mid range vinyl window. There are other windows you may want to look at -- Milgard, Anllin, or a top end Simonton window.
I'm having a hard time finding window options for a home in Oregon. I'm looking to replace 10 large slider windows with new vinyl slider windows. We get lots of rain, occasional wind storms with rain, hot summers, and cool winters. The readily available windows are Pella, Andersen, and Milgard. The first two window companies have not been recommended, while Milgard has been so-so on the recommendations. Your thoughts? Other recommendations for window manufacturers? Thank You!
David, I agree with you on Pella, their vinyl windows are not the best in the business. Andersen doesn't make vinyl windows, although they do own American Craftsman and Silverline, which are generally considered very low end vinyl window options. The Andersen 100 composite window is a possibility, but I do think there are some better options out there. (Although I must say that Home Depot sells the Andersen 100 window at a very reasonable cost. I would find my own installer though outside of HD if you do decide to go this route.)
I'm overseeing our non-profit building window replacement project (currently have steel pan windows): I've gotten a number of bids, but value your opinion on the following:
Jean-Marie, I like these selections. The Andersen 100 is a nice window, but unless you really like how it looks, I would say you aren't getting much in terms of performance from this window over the other two.
I'm really attached to the idea of all dark interior windows, with dark exteriors on the 5 front windows. Black or dark bronze. Mix of some big new construction windows and smaller replacement windows. I live in N.C. so we see winter and summer. I wouldn't mind vinyl, but it seems next to impossible to find in a dark interior. Any ideas for affordable options? Will want one bow window seat, some big fixed picture windows, and some standard double hung replacements. Thanks!
Kimberly, I agree with you - interior colored windows look much better than white and off white for certain styles of homes. It is pretty difficult to find a vinyl windows with a dark interior. Most companies do you offer dark exteriors, but obviously this isn't what you're after. I would be more than happy to make several suggestions for options that should be available in your home state of North Carolina.
I've used some Andersen windows, mainly the 100 series. The only real benefit to using them is that they paint well. I would recommend switching to a vinyl window, the Andersens are a composite of fiberglass and wood. They are overpriced and don't perform as well as cheaper vinyl windows.
I've used some Andersen windows, mainly the Andersen 100 Series. The only real benefit to using them is that they paint well. I would recommend switching to fiberglass or aluminum clad wood windows. They are overpriced and don't perform as well as higher end vinyl windows.
Related Topics: Renewal By Andersen Review
I think the Andersen 100 composite window sold through HD is a decent buy and actually is not that far off what RBA sells.
However, I like ProVia windows more than the Andersen 100 and think they make good products at reasonable prices. I would say go with the ProVia Endure windows (their premium series) or the Aspect vinyl window (the mid range series). I would suggest getting a good low-e glass package and consider an upgrade to foam insulation in the frame and a sash reinforcement if they offer these at a price that is still in your budget.
Once you get the windows, make sure you find someone local who specializes in windows installation and who has some experience with ProVia. Ask about a labor warranty and make sure that you will have some recourse from the hardware store if you do have issues down the road. Ask them how they have handled it in the past with ProVia and make sure you feel comfortable with the process they lay out. ProVia Endure vs Andersen Windows
If you buy a good vinyl window and get professional installation, you should be go to go for a good 20 years and beyond!
Tim - Website Editor - from 2018
Andersen vs Alside
That being said, I now want to finish the rest of the windows in the house (about 8) and I want to do the installation myself. I have replaced many windows for friends and relatives over the last several years using Pella, American Craftsman, and in one case Harvey windows. I know installation is a very important part of the replacement window process and I am extremely particular about the getting the installation right. I don't have a contractors license but know my work is of high quality.
So my dilemma is being able to buy a high to middle grade vinyl replacement window from a dealer and do the replacement myself. I like all the things you have said about Okna and others but it does not look as though they will sell directly to the homeowner. Any suggestions as to how I can purchase a good quality vinyl replacement window and install it myself?
Thanks in advance for your reply.
Tony - Homeowner - from 2017
[Site Editor's Answer]
It is available locally for me at Home Depot, but HD is regional and carries different brands in different locations. I would go to the big box stores and ask the guys who work there what window they carry is the best and then what window would they put in their home from the HD selections. I would think the answer would be the same for both questions, but who knows.
You can also ask HD, Lowes, and Dixieline for example if there are any brands they carry that you can purchase directly. In all likelihood, they will say no, but they might say if you have a "contractor's license" then you can purchase and you can always find someone to put in the order for you.
Good luck and let me know what you find so I can be better informed myself in case someone else asks me this same question down the road!
Dane - Site Editor - from 2017
Andersen 100 Series vs. Sunrise Vanguard
Mary - Homeowner - from 2017
[Site Editor's Answer]
Tim - Site Editor - from 2017
Anderson 100 vs. Renewal by Anderson Glass
Jill - Homeowner - from 2017
[Site Editor's Answer]
The two windows are fairly similar, although the RBA is the better of the two. However at nearly 3x the costs of the 100 series, I would personally have a hard time going with the RBA, even if I could afford it. Which I can't. :)
Tim - Site Editor - from 2017
Andersen 100 Series Cost vs Sunrise
Sunrise Series: $20,710
Andersen 100 Series: $15,480
Alliance Windgate Series: $12,330
Matt - Homeowner - from 2017
[Site Editor's Answer]
Tim - Site Editor - from 2017
Andersen 100 Series vs. Renewal By Andersen
I am removing an exterior kitchen wall to put in a Bay Window, I was considering RBA until I found your website (thank God for that). I am now waiting for a rough estimate from 84 lumber for a custom sized Bay.
Should I go with the Anderson 100 series? I am planning to upgrade to the best R-value glass and best UV rated glass. Can I buy all the same material from Anderson, i.e ext trim, roofing etc (thru 84 Lumber) that RBA uses to finish out the final look?
RBA's completed showroom product fits exactly to what I envisioned, but I am sure, from reading your advice the cost is going to give me heart failure!
I thank you in advance for any advice you give me so I might get a better night's sleep. lol
Robert- Homeowner - from 2017
[Site Editor's Answer]
I would get estimates from the contractor on all of the different window brands they offer. Typically with a bay window, the window companies all buy the bay box from one of several manufacturers and then they add their own custom sized windows into the pre-made/pre-sized box. So, best to see what options are out there and get pricing on each. Bay Window Cost
I think the Andersen 100 series is a good window, not the greatest performance numbers, but looks of nice exterior options, a nice looking window, and a good window in general. (More or less a sort of stripped down RBA window.)
I don't know exactly how RBA does their trim/roofing work, but a quality contractor should be able to closely match whatever you are looking for -- I would take a picture or get specs on exactly what you want, be very specific with the contractor that you want to match the look in the picture and then insist that they do just that.
Take your time and get a few bids so you can sleep well at night...for the next 20 years!
Dane - Site Editor - from 2017
Andersen Windows Reviews 100 Series
I'm awaiting bids from 3 dealers in town.
I'd love to have bronze windows if we can afford it. If the difference in price is $5k or more between bronze and white, we will settle for white windows.
We live in the High Desert in California where we get alot of wind. During the hottest 2 months, temperatures are as high as 110. During the coldest 2 months, we get into the mid to low 20s.
One dealer is pushing Anderson 100 and claims it is far superior to Milgard Tuscany bronze in durability and appearance particularly bc Milgard bronze windows are painted (Does that mean they will fade and Andersen wont?).
Another dealer favors Plygem windows bc he says Milgard customer service is not what it used to be and assures me Plygem sells a good product and has a good warranty.
The third dealer is a fan of Milgard.
I'm worried that the Andersen bronze window, though the color may last longer, may not be as durable as Milgard. I can't seem to find much information about the durability of this composite material anywhere. I'm also concerned that a Milgard bronze color will fade quickly under the strong sun in our area bc it's painted, and lastly I've read that Plygem falls under the "budget window" category. Is it a vastly inferior brand to these other two?
Thanks in advance for your help!
Carol - Homeowner - from 2017
[Site Editor's Answer]
Andersen 100 is a good window -- I think it might be a little bit better than the Milgard Tuscany, but I wouldn't think the performance would be any better.
Ply Gem is also a good window, particularly their Premium series. Remember, most window companies make a number of models, so their entry level vinyl windows are below what you would want and their mid range windows are good. Honestly, all of these window companies are right in that mid to high end for their mid range vinyl window.
As far as the Milgard, I think the lifetime warranty would be enough to make me feel confident in the decision. I would also feel comfortable with the Andersen 100 window.
Tim - Site Editor - from 2017
Andersen 100 Windows vs Marvin Infinity
Derek - Homeowner - from 2016
[Site Editor's Answer]
The most energy efficient windows however are top quality vinyl windows from companies like Sunrise, Okna, Soft-Lite, Hi Mark, and Polaris. These will probably cost the same as the Andersen 100, but will offer a sturdier window and better performance. They won’t be as nice looking though.
Dane - Site Editor - from 2016
Andersen 100 vs Marvin Integrity
Joanna - Homeowner - from 2016
[Site Editor's Answer]
Sorry to now further complicate your situation. I think each of those windows is good. I would base my decision on comparing the energy efficiency numbers and then on which window I liked the look, feel and function of the best.
Tim - Site Editor - from 2016
Anderson 100 Series Window Sizes
Is it possible to still use the Anderson series in a slightly smaller size and add extra framing to the window openings that need to be rebuilt anyway? Or does this mean that I "have" to go with custom windows?
Some are saying that custom windows are my only option - others are telling me that they can narrow the openings when rebuilding the frames.
Linda - Homeowner - from 2016
[Site Editor's Answer]
Dane - Site Editor - from 2016
Do It Yourself Options
I've chosen to do it myself, but am having a hard time finding companies willing to sell me the windows. Thank you for any help you can offer.
Drew - Homeowner - from 2016
[Site Editor's Response]
If you are going to do it yourself, you will probably have to buy through the big box stores. Home Depot sells the Andersen 100 series, which is a pretty solid window. This is what I would buy for my house if I were going through HD.
The other two brands I think are decent through these retail sources are Simonton and Reliabilt. I wouldn't buy any other brands than these. Pricing is quite transparent obviously since you can walk right in and see what a particular sized window costs.
Dane - Site Editor - from 2016
Andersen vs Renewal by Andersen
Does this mean that RBA is a cheaper window that the wood Home Depot? Does it make any difference on a fixed window/picture window? Is the glass itself the same in all?
Jim - Homeowner - from 2016
[Site Editor's Response]
So to answer your question, the RBA and the Andersen 100 windowuse the same frame. A picture window and a fixed frame window are the same thing. I couldn't say what standard glass is used on the 100 compared with the RBA. Typically, manufacturers offer a low-e1 glass as their base model glass. Consumers can upgrade to better glass, typically one that uses a low-e2 or low-e3 option.
Dane - Site Editor - from 2016
Andersen Windows Reviews
Vivian - Homeowner - from 2016
[Site Editor's Response]
As always installation is very important so make sure to vet the installers well.
Dane - Site Editor - from 2016
Andersen 100 Composite Windows
David - Homeowner - from 2016
[Site Editor's Response]
In your state, you should be able to find Amerimax Windows, Milgard and Simonton. All of these manufacturers make a good vinyl window, although I would not recommend their entry level vinyl option. In terms of Simonton, I would say go for their Impressions Series or their premium Reflections options.
In terms of Milgard, I think their windows are good, not the best in the business, but very solid. Remember, you can buy a good mid grade vinyl window and be fine for the next 20 years easy. The big issue is the installation, if this gets screwed up, it doesn't matter how good the window.
Dane - Site Editor - from 2016
Simonton Windows vs Andersen
Contractor A recommends: Vytex 3300 windows casement, $37,506;
Contractor B recommends: Simonton 5500 windows casement, $43,650;
Contractor C recommends: Andersen 100 windows casement, $49,800;
Of course, there is a lot of custom sizing required. For an idea of size of job, number of windows to be replaced is about 35-58 (depending on how they were counted); number of new windows is about 30-35. I've also received bids for Pella aluminum clad wood (cost higher than above quotes except if the contractor "A" installs instead of Vytex - then less than $40k ). Thanks very much!
Jean-Marie - Homeowner - from 2015
[Site Editor's Response]
I like the Simonton 5500 casement quite a bit and I would go with this selection on first glance - but of course, I don't know all the details of what you are getting in terms of glass, upgrades, etc.
I like both the Vytex Fortis Window and Potomac-hp series, but I'm not sure which one you are referring to here. If it is one of these (if I had to guess, I would say this is the Fortis, but I could be wrong...)
I might go with the Simonton only because they are a bigger company and you have a little more assurance that if an issue arises, they will be around and your contractor can deal with them and get the issue resolved.
I have to say that the numbers on the Fortis and Potomac-hp (not the Georgetown Series, which I don't love) are really impressive, I like that .05 AI — I might have to change my mind as I'm writing this.
I don't think the 5500 is going to fare as well - see if you can get some comparable numbers on the 5500 from your contractor. Look at AI and DP rating.
Good luck and let me know what you decide!
Tim - Site Editor - from 2015
Andersen 100 Dark Interiors
Kimberly - Homeowner - from 2015
[Site Editor's Response]
You should note that an exterior or interior frame color is typically considered an upgrade and can add 10% to 25% to the cost of each window. As well, the exterior coatings may carry a less attractive timeline in terms of the warranty period, often 10 years on the coating.
The Anderson 100 series is a composite fibrex frame that is a combination of vinyl and wood and is available in a number of exterior and interior frame colors, many of which are quite dark. The other thing that I like about this window is it comes in a number of finishes, the matte finish is very interesting and may or may not match your design style. Performance wise, the Anderson 100 series is just OK and in all honesty is probably a little bit overpriced for what you're getting. However, they do offer a lot of options and it's certainly something to look into.
Renewal by Andersen also carries quite a few dark interior colors, however the Renewals are even more expensive than the Anderson 100 series. These are actually a fairly similar window in that they use the same basic composite frame and offer tons of customizations, but in the case of the Renewals, they are very overpriced in my opinion, $1000 to $1200 for a standard sized double hung fully installed.
In terms of fiberglass, you may want to look at the Marvin Infinity window with the Everwood interior. It comes in an unfinished form and then you can stain it really any color you want, as dark as you would like. However the Everwood is an engineered product and therefore won't weather and deteriorate in the same way that a real wood species well. The Infinity has a Fiberglass exterior cladding, and is quite well made.
Harvey vinyl windows are available in an interior bronze, dark oak and a red cedar color. I'm not quite sure if they are available in North Carolina, the company is based out of Massachusetts but you should call them and see if they have a dealer who services your area.
I will keep searching for some additional vinyl window options and send you an email with anything else that I find. Good luck.
Dane - Site Editor - from 2015
Andersen 100 Series Reviews And Prices
Bradley - Installer - from 2010
Andersen 100 Series Reviews
Bradley - Installer - from 2010
Apex Windows Reviews