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Wood Windows Reviews
Explore wood windows reviews and discover which models and brands contractors, installers and homeowners recommend.
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dane@replacementwindowsreviews.co
Wood Window Replacements
Hi, I would like to get your recommendations for replacement windows/companies in Wisconsin. Specifically, we live in Waukesha County which is connected to Milwaukee County to the west. We need wooden double hung windows to match what we're replacing; due to HOA bylaws.
Dave - Homeowner - from 2022
[Website Editor Answers]
Dave, my top picks for wood windows (which go from best to good) include the Marvin Elevate series, the Andersen 400, the Pella Architect, Kolbe Heritage, and the Jeld Wen Auralast wood window.
You should ask if you can replace using a vinyl window with a wood laminate interior. They are pretty difficult to tell apart these days. Top tier vinyl windows are WAY more energy efficient (especially after the 10 year mark), require zero maintenance, cost less, and last much longer than a real wood window (just compare the warranties). Most of the top tier windows in my list can be ordered in a wood laminate interior.
[Email dane@replacementwindowsreviews.co for his recommendations]
Dane - Website Editor - from 2022
Pella ProLine Wood Windows
I've installed Pella windows going on nearly 30 year and have all the training certification etc. I love wood clad windows, but they have some downsides to be sure - rotting and mediocre rating at the top of the list. Honestly, the Sunrise vinyl window will be a better option in both of these regards (perhaps not their entry level window, but the standard frame and all other upgraded models.) As far as wood windows go, I think the big manufacturers need to stand behind their products and warranty their frames and sashes on the wood windows for 20 years. Then you would provide some confidence to the consumer.
Wayne - Contractor - from 2014
Andersen 400 Series
Most people today are using vinyl windows (at least in the replacement market). The Andersen 400 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. Most people don't realize that it's a wood window because it looks like vinyl. I really wouldn't recommend them. If the stores had an actual window on display I don't think anyone would ever order them.
Don - Contractor - from 2011
Read additional Andersen windows reviews.
Looking For Wood Window Replacements
Hi Tim, we are looking to replace windows in Michigan. I am not familiar with PGT windows. I just read they are more for hurricanes? Our windows steam up. We are looking for Wood windows, easy to clean from the inside as we have a bi level home and hopefully economical, but good windows. We have heard of Andersen’s and Pella’s. We are not sure which we should purchase.
Can you help us to know how to look for the right ones for this home? We have 12 upstairs and basements windows. We were looking to replace 5 this year. I am not sure I am asking the right questions, but would appreciate your help in this matter.
Thank you!
Peggy - Homeowner - from 2020
[Website Editor Answers]
Peggy, PGT windows are often found on the coast and do tend to be used often for impact or hurricane windows. In Michigan, you have a lot of options. Wood clad is certainly one of them. Before you do invest in wood clad windows, you should be aware that they have some disadvantages, including cost, maintenance, warranty (life of windows), and energy efficiency. Aesthetically, they can't be beat. Top series for me include Andersen 400, Marvin Ultimate, Pella Architect, and the Jeld Wen Auralast Series.
One option to consider is a top tier vinyl window with a wood laminate interior. The best of these mimic the look of wood windows, while giving you all the advantage of vinyl windows. The biggest two are longevity and energy efficiency.
Tim - Site Editor - from 2020
Wood Interior Windows
Hi. I'm in Idaho and I need a picture window replaced because it is leaking (and is ugly). I'd like a wood interior window that is either a casement, or sliding window. I love the french style that swing out, but not sure if I can afford it. I also want grids. I am utterly confused by all these manufacturers and would greatly appreciate your opinion on who makes a good wood interior window or just good windows in general. I'd prefer wood interior, but don't know if I can afford that either. The window is about 4'X4'..
Thank you so much!
Kimberly - Homeowner - from 2020
[Website Editor Answers]
Kimberly, Idaho is a tricky place for me. I believe Anlin works out of there, but they make vinyl windows. You should be able to order them with a wood laminate interior, which is a great option because you get the look of wood without all of the issues with wood: cost, maintenance, longevity, and energy efficiency.
Quality wood windows include Andersen 400, Marvin Ultimate, and even a Jeld Wen wood clad that uses an auralast coat.
Tim - Site Editor - from 2020
[Kimberly's Reply]
Wow. Thank you so much for responding! I would love to get more of your input and thank you for the recommendations. I really do want the wood interior, if I can find a good window that I can afford. I was hoping to find a smaller company to support, but I want input on the larger manufacturers too. I love to support small companies, but that isn't always possible. Thank you, again, and you may be hearing from me, again. :)
Kimberly - Homeowner - from 2020
Pella vs Kolbe
If you're looking at Pellas and Kolbes, the Pella is probably a little cheaper, but not by much. I think the Kolbes are better by a big enough margin to be worth the higher cost. I had 20 double hung wood windows put in about 15 years ago and they are still like new.
Guy - Homeowner in New Jersey - from 2011
[Contractor Response]
Kolbes are definitely better. Pella is better known, but people in the trades know Kolbe. Better post-sale service, better build quality, just a better choice all around.
Tim - Contractor - from 2011
[2nd Response]
I honestly am not impressed by either of these. Kolbe to me is just an unimpressive mediocre window. Pellas, though, are garbage. Even their top-line Architectural series are lousy. The showroom models look nice, but when you get your windows all the details are off. Hardware is on crooked, miter joints are bad. The Pellas I put on my house are decent, but only because I put a ton of work into fixing them after they came. As delivered, they weren't something that could be put on a house.
Mark - Contractor - from 2011
Read additional Pella windows reviews.
Loewen vs Marvin Wood Windows
I sell both Marvin and Loewen windows, and I think they are both good products. Loewen is a small company, and they only sell through dealers, so it's important to go through a good one, they are the ones who'll handle most of your customer service after the sale. I'd get quotes from both Marvin and Loewen before deciding, though, because which one is the best value will depend on exactly what you're getting. If you're looking at wood, the big difference is the wood they use. Loewen usually uses Douglas fir, which has a little more pattern than pine, stains darker, and is a bit harder. Marvin uses Ponderosa Pine, so it's lighter in color but still looks nice. Pine will rot faster, so extruded aluminum or vinyl cladding and a good finish can help protect it. To me, the only real weakness Loewen has is the size. They are very small, a lot of people have never heard of them, and if something happened and they closed you'd be out of luck as far as repairs or service.
Daniel – Installer – 2009
Andersen 400 Series vs Woodwright
I have done a ton of research into the Andersen 400 Series compared to the Woodwright Series. So far, this is how they seem to compare -
Woodwright Series
Premium cost
Available as a replacement or insert
Tilt wash feature
Good looking
Clean jambs
400 Series Tilt Wash
Mid range cost
Available as either a built to fit or as a full frame
Difficult tilt feature
Good looking
"They seem to run pretty close, with the higher price for the Woodwrights being the deciding factor for me. The 400 series are pretty close in quality and features for a lower price.
Steve - Homeowner - from 2009