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Home : Replacement Windows Reviews : Andersen Andersen Windows And Doors Information
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Andersen Vinyl WindowsAt one time, Anderson owned American Craftsman and Silverline, both of which still sell their vinyl window series in the big box stores. Unfortunately, the quality of these companies was never good. Anderson ended up selling both of the companies over a decade ago and has stayed out of the vinyl sector since then.
Andersen Composite WindowsThe 100 series, a composite window series, is quite nice looking, but perhaps a bit pricey for what you are getting. The 100 series is very nice looking and offers great colors and finishes that make it one of the better looking windows out there. The performance number are going to be okay, not as good as the best composite window, which is probably the Okna Starmark 900.
Andersen vs Renewal By AndersenThe company also owns Renewal By Andersen, which is a franchise that uses a similar fibrex material in the mainframe and sash. The Renewals tend to be VERY expensive. Here is our link to Is Renewal By Andersen The Same As Andersen Windows - this does a nice job of explaining the relationship in better detail. Scroll down for all of our Andersen Windows reviews.
Andersen Wood WindowsThe company is best known for their wood clad windows. Their 200 Series is their builder grade and is not a bad wood window. We would always recommend consumers try to stretch into the 400 Series, even if it means saving money on hardware or other other add ons in order to keep the per replacement window cost to a minimum. It is their 400 Series window that really shines, particularly the Woodwright model (there is a review below on this model).
Andersen Window WarrantyAndersen offers more or less an industry standard warranty on their windows. The Andersen 200 and 400 series covers the wood exteriors for a period 5 years and all other parts and components for 10 years from the date of installation. The insulated glass unit is covered for 20 years from the date of installation. The warranty is transferable to another owner and these warranty periods remain in place. There is no accidental glass breakage provision in this warranty. Click to read the Andersen Window Guarantee in more detail on each of their window and door series.
Andersen Windows Reviews :: 200 SeriesThe Andersen 200 Series is the company's base wood clad window. The 200 Series uses an exterior vinyl cladding with a real wood interior and comes in a variety of colors and custom options, although much less so than the better and more expensive 400 Series.
Hello, I'm looking to replace 10 double hungs (2846 and 2032) Anderson 200 series windows which are 40+ years old. I will look at RBA, but would like to consider other options based on your recommendations. I don't want just vinyl, ideally a composite with clad on inside...I dont want to have paint anything. Also want them to tilt in for cleaning. We are located in the Harrisburg Pa. area. Suggestions?
Doug, here are a few of my lists on different material options and recommendations for you to take a look at.
Updated offer both windows by Anderson for $6,100.00 is this a better offer
Kevin, the Andersen price estimate looked quite solid, about what I would expect to pay for the Andersen doors and window. I personally like the idea of putting in a high quality vinyl door and window (like the Polaris/Ideal option) only because these offer better energy efficiency and will typically hold up better over time.
Would you recommend the Andersen 200 window or the Ideal Majestic Signature. The Majestic is quoted out at $650 installed, while the Andersen is at $800. By the way, I've been digging into your Andersen Windows reviews and it's helpful so good on you.
Evan, the Andersen 200 series is a wood window, while the Ideal Majestic is a vinyl window. In terms of the Andersen 200 vs 400, I think the 200 is okay, but I much prefer the 400 series from them.
Hi Dane! We found your website doing a Google search and would love your opinion! We're in the process of purchasing a new construction spec house and the developer offers Andersen 200 series windows as standard, or we can get a $6K credit for using MI 4300 series windows. Is the credit worth it in the long run or should we stick to the Andersen 200s? If we do get the 200s, what maintenance is required?
Jon and Rochelle, MI windows are typically considered a builder grade window, a cheaper vinyl window that lowers costs for builders on home. They would be lucky to last 12 to 15 years. The Andersen 200 wood window is a good quality window. I like the 400 series more, but the 200 series is not bad.
I'm building a new home on the Gulf coast off Fort Myers, on Pine Island, FL. The building code requires high velocity impact resistant windows which I've narrowed down to PGT vs Andersen double hung, low E windows. Jeld Wen was also suggested but I don't believe their windows are comparable. I think, due to salt, sun and wind exposure, the vinyl clad exterior should be considered over the aluminum clad? I've also been told that I definitely want the PGT aluminum clad sliding doors for our (2) sixteen foot openings. My concern… I want to use the best for my situation vs saving money, as this is our last home and I don't want to cut corners on something as important as this. Thank you for your expertise…
Susan, I think you're right to eliminate the Jeld Wen from the mix if you want the best hurricane windows for your home. I really like PGT and find their prices to be quite competitive and the quality of their windows to be good. I would price out both products first to see how they compare before I made any decision. Then I would compare the interior "look of the windows" - is the aesthetic difference worth the added cost of the Andersen to you. This is a personal decision and one that I can't make for you, obviously.
Thank you Tim. I value your input and will let you know! I also spoke w/ my window gal up north and she was quite definite on which Andersen…the A series. She does a lot on the seacoast of New Hampshire where I also live and although she isn't familiar w/PGT….she says a whole world of difference between 400 vs A…and to go w/ A series, as made much better from the git go. So I'm pricing out PGT vs Andersen 'A' and will look into the CWS you mentioned. Thanks!
Most people today are using vinyl windows (at least in the replacement market). The Andersen 200 series is a vinyl wrapped sash with a wood frame. Andersens used to be everywhere, and to a lot of people take them almost as a generic name for a window.
The Andersen 400 Series is the best window option in the Andersen fleet and one to take a look at if your budget allows. This is a vinyl clad wood window that can be ordered in any number of colors, sizes, upgrade options, etc. Similarly to the 200 Series, the Andersen 400 windows comes in two basic models, the Tilt-Wash and the Woodwright. The sash on the 400 Tilt-Wash is much improved over the material used on the 200 Series.
Dane, I’ve been replacing my builder grade Patriot vinyl windows w/ nail flange with Anderson 400’s w/ nail flange. The existing vinyl windows only take up half 2x4 wall depth and have a drywall return that needs to be removed to allow the Anderson 400 to fit in the full 2x4 opening. My issue is my kitchen window.
HI Dane, I was reviewing your site and appreciate your honesty in providing your opinion on windows. I just received a quote for 10 double hung replacement insert windows from RBA for 30k. Seems like alot. Would love a list of other high quality windows to install.
Demitri, the RBA quote is definitely high. I'm not sure I would pay $1300 a window to rehab them. I would go with a top tier vinyl window with an upgrade to an interior wood finish -- like an Okna 800 DX or a Sunrise Restorations.
Need 7 double hung 36w×49h, 2 double hung 24w×61, one picture window 71w×61h, want colonial sash,grille 3/4 inch between glass full fiberglass screen. not sure on glass for long island ny.
Lou, the Andersen 400 is a wood clad window, while the Renewal is a composite frame. Both are quite expensive. The Andersen 400 is, in my opinion, a very nice wood clad window. The Renewal is, in my opinion, much too expensive for the price you will pay.
Hello Dane, I really appreciate your site and helpful information. I live in Fresno, Ca (zip 93704). We are replacing 36 windows with casement windows to replace old metal crank out windows (home built in 1945). The windows are 2 lites across/horizontal and 3 lites down/vertical.
Kerry, I’ve been getting mobbed with the black exterior frame questions lately. It’s definitely a hot trend.
Hello Dane, have bids on the Andersen 100 and 400, pretty close in price. I thought the Andersen 100 series seemed pricey as well. Unfortunately, Home Depot and not the local Andersen dealer has the best price on both series. I visited the dealer showroom and took another look in person at the 100 Series vs 400 Series. Luckily, they had a painted black interior 400 Series and 100 series on site.
Hang in there, Kerry. The Andersen 400 window is quite nice, so maybe that's the direction to go.
Thank you so much. Your confirmation on the Andersen 400 confirms the choice and research and pricing can finally be over. Many thanks again.
So, in searching around I found you folks. I'm replacing two sets of fixed (don't ask!) glass doors with sliders. I had never heard of Paradigm and was only considering Anderson 400 series. The Paradigm is the 8300 NC sliding glass doors. Certainly different price points.
Diana, Paradigm makes a decent vinyl window and door. Andersen 400 doors are great, but the wood interior isn’t the best for energy efficiency. I actually have these in my house, but I also don’t live in such an extreme climate. Since you are in NH, try to get a bid from Sunrise, Soft-Lite, and or Okna. These would be a better option than Paradigm.
Dane, I went on your site to get info on a mid range replacement window. Is window nation a good co. I was looking at 400 series anderson or 70 series vinyl replacement window. I have 8 -32"x64" windows & 3 -32"x54" .what would you recommend -.must be energy star rated windows and tilt and wash double hung.
Jim, yes, Window Nation is a good company that often carries good brands (The different branches do carry different window brands though, so its tough to make a definitive claim here.) My problem with them is sometimes the bid strikes me as just too high. Send me their bid when you get it and I'm happy to look it over and make recommendations.
Hi Dane, we recently had hail damage and need to replace two sliding glass doors. We thought we’d look into your Andersen windows reviews for 30+ year old windows that leak and don’t function well. We have a large house in a nice neighborhood. Lots of wood trim around our windows and our doors are stained wood. So wood or high-quality veneer are a requirement.
Tim, the Renewal story is pretty typical for them. Apparently they will shave off 45% of their original bid, which begs the question of why do they put out the original bid if not to rip you off. grrrr....
Dane, I appreciate your response. I just found it in my spam folder. I think we are headed down the right road. I asked my realtor for recs on installers. She gave me a long list of carpenters/contractors. One of them worked as a window installer for 8 years previously so we went with him. He recommended we check prices with the local lumberyard and they are very near wholesale for the Andersen 400s.
Hey guys, just reading your Andersen windows reviews page on the answers you have given and have a need for some insight. I will be building a log cabin next year and looking for the best windows out there. Looking for a black window inside and out. I have hesitations on say a painted vinyl, but maybe a veneer will last?
Jim, the black exterior on windows looks so good for so many projects. I know Marvin makes a good black exterior on their Integrity and I believe the Infinity as well, but yes, fiberglass is typically 30% more than vinyl.
I'm considering the Viwinco Oceanview hurricane window for my coastal home. I've also always heard great things about the Andersen 400. I have 20 regular windows and 3 patio sliding doors to replace. I saw the Andersens and really liked them. However, the cost to go from the Viwinco to the Andersen 400 series was $21,000.
Milly, the Andersen 400 and Viwinco Oceanview really couldn't be more different products. One is a wood clad non impact window, the other is a vinyl impact window. I think you first need to decide what you need. The Andersen 400 wood clad window is quite nice, but personally I don't think it's ideal for coastal applications. I would much prefer a vinyl impact window, which will last longer, hold up better to the temperature fluctuations, and requires no maintenance.
Hi guys, I’m a window novice and need some advice. We have 27 windows in our home, they are the old Andersen Narroline 200 wood frame double hung series. My wife and I are looking at doing the 400 series conversion ourselves...https://parts.andersenwindows.com/detail_1600440__w_dh_con.html. We also just got a quote on doing pocket window installation for the Gentek Series Signature Elite 3000 DH. Price aside, what do you think of the quality difference here, and what is your opinion on doing the conversion vs. pocket window vs. a full frame replacement?
Wayne, you have some tough questions here because I really don't know the overall quality of your window frames. The big question on the conversion kit is how plumb your window frames are. Personally, I would get a couple of window companies out to "give you bids" but really to inquire whether doing the conversion is viable based on the 1) quality of your frames and 2) how plumb or out of plumb your frames. I'd kind of slip in the questions as they measure your windows. Conversion kits go well if your frames are in good shape, but they can get tricky on older homes, even for the pros.
I had bid bids, either the Anderson 400 or the Sunrise Restoration. Leaning towards the Sunrise Window. Any opinion on the matter? Thanks.
Barry, the Sunrise Restoration is the better performer over the Anderson 400 series. Both are nice windows but the Sunrise is going to last longer and be more energy efficient.
Thanks for all the info as I have found you and the website to be very helpful. Last question I have is, have you heard or experienced any "leaks/drafts" with the 400 series? I've been looking at reviews on the 400 series and some have commented on them being drafty and not always having a good seal. To be fair, most of these reviews were from 2-3 years ago so not sure if they changed the window since then. The air infiltration rating is <.3 if I'm reading it correctly. Will a good vinyl window have better air infiltration ratings then a good wood window like the Andersen 400?
Bill, the AI of a good vinyl window will always beat out a good wood window. The Andersen 400 window is quite good, but if it were me, I would go with a good vinyl window any day. They are less expensive, achieve better performance, have a better warranty (i.e. will last longer), and they require less maintenance. They just don't look as nice, although some top vinyl window manufacturers have done a good job with their interior laminates that mimic the look of wood.
Hello, I'm currently in the process of getting bids to replace 27 windows in the Philadelphia area and the price for the job is in the $20,000-$30,000 range depending on the windows which is just a midgrade vinyl window.
Bill, assuming the frames are in good shape, the conversion kits can be a great way to go. Here's the issue though, they can be tricky to install right. Even professional installers who don't often do conversion kits can have issues. I would first get a couple of bids from local companies on replacement, but then ask if they also do conversion kits, what their opinion is as it relates to the condition of your windows, how they would go about the project, etc. Basically get as much professional and free advice as possible.
I found a company that is Andersen certified and does the Conversion kits. I didn't like sales guy but tried to ignore that aspect as I just wanted a price and if my current frames/sills were good for the kits. He said they looked good and that I was "lucky" as I was going to save a bunch going with the conversion kits. They wanted $27,000 for the job.
Bill, I think $27,000 sounds quite high as well. That's $1,225 per window for the conversion and he's saying that replacement windows would cost over $1800 per window. Unless I was getting the Andersen A series (which is a beautiful window), I wouldn't pay $1800 for any Andersen window.
I'm getting 3 quotes on the Sunrise Classic, Andersen 400 series, and Simonton 5500. I'd love to get your take...
Greg, all of these windows are good. The Andersen 400 series is going to be the most expensive, but is a good wood clad window. The Simonton 5500 is nice but the Sunrise Classic is the series is the best of the bunch in my opinion. They have some good interior wood laminates to choose from that look pretty similar to real wood. You sort of get the best of both worlds here -- a wood clad looking window without the maintenance and cost.
Dane, the Anderson bid actually came in $2,500 lower and included full frame replacement vs only in-frame for the Sunrise. In addition, Anderson had their best look window grills included in the price and Sunrise did not. Door prices for our front door were much better as well plus a much better looking door than the other quote. Finalizing a decision this week but likely going with Anderson at this point. So far Sunrise would not budge on price.
Good morning Tim, I live in the Dallas area and have 9 windows to replace; however, as many of your readers I am at a loss to select the correct option.
Dan, in terms of Andersen, I would suggest the 400 series. The fibrex 100 series is a decent window. The Renewal By Andersen is an upgraded 100 series.
After reading your Andersen windows reviews, I am now deciding between the Anderson 400 series and Milgard Essence series.
Dougan, both the Milgard Essence Series and Andersen 400 are both good windows. I would rate the Andersen 400 series over the Milgard Essence window and I think they enjoy a better reputation in the industry. Of course, Andersen may also be quite a bit more than Milgard windows costs.
I'm replacing 50 windows.
Asia, the Andersen 400 series is a very solid wood window, but the Pella Architect might be better in my opinion and our Andersen windows reviews backs this up I think.
Looking at installing new Anderson double hungs into existing Anderson casement windows frames without removing the frames which are in good condition. Trying to choose between Renewal inserts by Anderson or Wood Wright inserts by Anderson but unsure which way to go. Any input on which you feel is the better unit and why would be a big help, please respond soon if possible. Thanks
Mark, I would recommend getting both the bids and seeing how they compare price wise. The Anderson Woodwright should be the 400 series, which is a very nice wood window, one of the wood windows that I often recommend (although I try to lightly guide most consumers away from real wood windows as a rule). The Renewal is a fibrex composite frame and should come with a better warranty (wood windows typically come with a 10 or 20 year warranty only), but the Renewal may be pricier than the standard Andersen.
Hi. I'll be residing my house next year, but wanted to start with the windows. Is it better to get new construction windows or replacement windows? I'll be using the Anderson 400 series. Is there a difference in their performance? When installed will new construction windows destroy the inside of the house? On the Anderson 400 is the smart sun window and laminated glass option worth the money?
Mary, in general, new construction windows differ from replacement windows in only one significant way, the NC windows have a nailing fin or flange across the top and sides that allow the builders to install the windows quickly and securely to the frame. There are no performance differences between the two types of windows themselves. The one issue with new construction windows is that when they need to be replaced, 6 to 8 inches of the exterior surrounding siding or stucco etc. must be torn off and replaced to hide the nailing fin. In your case, since you are residing your home next year, you could certainly use new construction and then have the siding installers go right over the fin without much hassle.
Looking at Windows - am not sure which is better the ply gem premium or the Anderson 400 Series?
Cory, these two windows are very different, the Ply Gem is a vinyl window and the Anderson 400 Series is an aluminum clad wood interior window. Check out this article on vinyl vs wood windows to see some of the main differences between the two. I think the first step in your process would be to figure out which type of window frame you would prefer.
The wall in my kitchen is being rebuilt and I am in the process of putting in a patio door. My home is brick, but now I have my windows to take into consideration. I have received a number of quotes, but the two that stood out are the Pella Proline and the Andersen 400. Does anyone have any advice for me on which I should choose?
I am a strong believer in Andersen windows. I have had many problems with Pella in the past and find they tend to leak, especially their aluminum series. I am not sure that Pella is even considered a high end brand. Andersen on the other hand offer excellent customer service and I have found that their doors and windows have superior seals. If money isn't an issue you may want to shop around and find out if Marvin is available in your area, if not then I recommend you go with the Andersen windows.
I am also a Andersen believer -- check out my ratings on my Andersen windows reviews page. We recently installed over twenty Andersen 400 windows without any problems. They all fit well and were excellent quality. These were custom made, so there we some issues with the screens, but this was easily managed by the customer service staff. If I were to choose though I would go with Marvin windows, I have never had a single days problem with this brand.
I always recommend that my customers go with Marvin where possible, they may be slightly more expensive, but they are a quality window that is made to last. If the client is unwilling to pay for these windows then my next choice would be Andersen. I find the Andersens to be quality products and I wouldn't hesitate to recommend the Integrity range.
Andersen windows 400 series - I bought custom as opposed to home depot windows, and it was a disappointment. Andersen has an incompetent customer service and if you get a defective window then be assured you'll be wasting lots of your time trying to get someone to fix it.
Any opinions on the Vinylmax Sherwood? It's supposed to be some kind of vinyl/wood hybrid? I was originally looking at the Simonton 5500 and the Sunrise (not sure which model, Verde maybe?), but then someone suggested these and I'm not sure what to do.
I don't like the Vinylmax Sherwood window, it looks to me like they made a cheap vinyl frame and glued wood to it. It's also bulky, which means a lot less glass to let light in. Look at the Andersen Woodwright 400, it has similar vinyl exterior and wood interior but much higher quality. Marvin makes a composite, too. For that matter, there are tons of all vinyl windows that offer wood-look interior.
We're replacing 30 windows that are mainly double hungs with some horizontal sliding and awning windows thrown in there as well. So far, we have bids from Andersen on their 400 Woodwright series with upgraded glass and screens fro $20K. Sierra Pacific windows came in and there bid was about 7K less for an aluminum clad window with a triple low-e glass and screens. They seem to be more on the west coast so I don't feel like they do as much business here in Montana. Weathershield was $16K, but there were a few design features that turned me off so I'm going to pass on them. Finally,
Of the three you mention, I like the Andersen 400 window the best. They make a very good window at a top end price, but you get the backing of a very strong company. Sierra Pacific is a mid range manufacturer with mid range windows. I dislike Weathershield.
The Andersen A Series is a top-of-the-line fiberglass clad wood window that is fully customizable and comes in a huge array of frame, trim and sash colors. The window can be ordered in any 1/4 inch size increment and has tons of amazing custom features and hardware upgrades. The A Series, or Architectural Series, is built to be used by architects and high end designers and is priced as such. If you can afford it, our hats are off to you because this is a truly beautiful wood window. I would give the Andersen A Series Window a 4.8 out of 5 stars rating. Scroll down to read all of our Andersen Windows reviews on the A series.
My wife and I are about to build our new home in South Carolina. Our property is on the intercostal waterway where impact glass is require or, other method. We are currently getting bids on windows and doors. Andersen windows are at the top of our list. Today, one of the builder suggested I look at Ply Gem windows quality is good and savings are approximately 10 to 15% less than Andersen. Do you have an opinion?
Hi Archie, I would say that you are right to have Andersen at the top of your list, assuming you can afford them - they are certainly not inexpensive. Ply Gem is a large building supply company and focuses on more contractor grade type windows, although their Premium Series is well made. I would think that the comparable difference in price from Ply Gem to Andersen would be at least 25% or more.
Dane, we are planning on using Andersen Fiberglass cladding A series. Our budget is $3,000,000 but, if we can save $100,000 by spending smart, i am certainly for that.
The Andersen A Series are pretty amazing windows. If it were me, I would also get a bid on the Marvin Ultimate Series and see if Loewen has a dealer in your area, I think their windows are gorgeous too!
Scroll down to read all of our Andersen windows reviews on the company's patio doors and options.
Hi Dane, we are replacing 12 double hungs and a sliding door on our porch. We are looking at full replacement sliders (6) because we want the most window glass area as possible. Because of our desire for a greater visual field, we are considering a high end vinyl that is good quality, has a low profile and has a Cedar interior (reddish wood). The soft light window has a “Brazilian cherry” color that is a very close match, but the window frame seems Bulky. Can you tell me, what are the best high end vinyl sliders with low profile frame?
Mark, the Soft-Lite sliding patio doors do tend to run a bit bulky, but are excellent products. You might want to take a look at the Sunrise Restorations patio doors. I can't remember exactly how they compare to the Soft-Lite, but they tend to make a bit slimmer profile than the Soft-Lite. They are also offered in a number of faux wood interior options.
We need 2 two-door sliding patio doors and can't decide whether to go with Anderson or Pella.
Mitchell, if you want wood clad doors then these two are good options. They or both close to one another and both expensive. I'd probably go with Andersen or Marvin instead of Andersen or Pella. Go check out our Andersen windows reviews on the site to see more on ratings.
Scroll down to read all of our general information Andersen Windows reviews.
I came across your site trying to figure out how to make basic decisions on replacement windows and I'm very glad that you're so open to personalized advice.
Alan, it can be a confusing process. My advise is to stick with vinyl, which accounts for perhaps 60% of all US homes and growing every year. They don't look that great but they have tons of advantages over something like wood clad -- see my link to article.
Hi Dane, we are looking to replace our current vinyl windows that are now about 35 years old. They are called Ultra-Sash, a now defunct company but they held up well.
Jenny, I am happy to provide you with our list of windows. My notion is that a contractor installing Andersen windows will be higher than a local window dealer who sells a couple of brands, but you really never know until you get a price quote from a contractor. Your best bet would be to collect four or five bids and see where you stand after that.
Dane, I came across your website while researching Renewal by Andersen window pricing. We’re looking at replacing the current Andersen windows, and slider, that we have in our home. They are over 20-years old and are starting to show their age. I was going to get a quote from RBA until I saw your website. I figured I’d ask for the list of what you have for good and great windows as I don’t want to spend the amount of money that I saw others getting quoted for window replacement by RBA.
Dane, have questions on reviews, Where did you get the statistics for OKNA windows and Andersen windows? How many windows were included in the review? Did you consult with AAMA? Did Andersen and OKNA pay for soliciting their product? Thanks for your time.
Kevin, the energy numbers often come from the National Fenestration Rating Council, which is 100% public information and published by the companies themselves. The rest come from the companies themselves, data I have collected over the years, or that has been posted on forum sites from window experts I trust. I do my best to vet it and update it as it comes in.
So you don't like the big names like Pella, Anderson, Jeld-Wen or Sierra Pacific? Those are available locally.
Jeff, Pella and Andersen make great, expensive wood clad windows. Sierra Pacific is mostly known for wood clad windows as well. Jeld Wen makes great doors, and actually their aura last wood clad windows are well priced. The Andersen 100 composite window is a good buy.
Related Topics: AMI Windows Reviews
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