Like most consumers, you probably want to weigh your options when it comes to picking a good window brand. The priorities for each project may differ depending on what you’re trying to get done. Are you looking for the best price? The most visually appealing? What about warranty information?
When it comes to Marvin, Pella, and Andersen windows, each brand has its pros and cons. Each company also offers different ranges of warranties from 10-50 years as well as different styles.
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Marvin Windows
First up for comparison is Marvin windows. This company has been around for over 100 years.
Pros
The biggest selling point for Marvin Windows is their well-tested durability. Like most product lines, they offer a “good, better, best” option. For Marvin Windows, these are the Essential Series, the Elevate Series, and the Signature Series.
Marvin Windows also has a proprietary material called Everwood which looks and feels like real wood but doesn’t warp or crack. They also use ultrex fiberglass in their window treatments which have been shown to consistently stand up to the elements.
Their warranty can span from 10-20 years.
Cons
You usually can’t have top-of-the-line durability without a top-of-the-line price. As far as costs go, these can tend to run you a bit more money than some competitors. Of course, it will depend on exactly what type of window you purchase.
Another drawback is that you will often need to meet with a dealer and get a quote, especially if you are unsure of the style that you want. This can extend project time.
Pella Windows
Pella is the newest brand among these three companies, being established around 1925. They also can be the most affordable option depending on any upgrades you wish to add.
Pros
Pella windows, when compared to Andersen and Marvin, have a wider range of options to choose from, so your windows can be more customized than with other companies. Pella also offers vinyl windows and doors, something that Marvin does not have (but Andersen does).
“Innovation” is a word that’s often associated with the Pella brand because they are constantly coming up with new product lines for modern homes that other companies either don’t offer or charge a higher amount for.
Pella offers a flat 10-year warranty for their products.
Cons
Because Pella is considered more affordable, their durability doesn’t quite match up to Marvin or Andersen. A big reason for this is that Pella uses roll-formed aluminum, and although this keeps production and retail costs down, it also means they won’t last as long.
It’s also been noted that Pella upcharges for certain upgrades that other companies offer for free (or are already included in the price). This means that in some instances, Pella can end up costing you more if you choose a large number of customizations.
It should also be noted that Pella is a smaller company than Marvin or Andersen, so their products aren’t available in all markets.
Andersen Windows
Easily the most recognizable brand on this list, Andersen Windows is the oldest company of the three.
Pros
Andersen is a multinational company and serves more markets than Pella or Marvin, so there’s a higher chance of them being available in your area. While Pella hinges on innovation, Andersen focuses on quality & their products are easily the longest lasting on the market.
They have the highest customer satisfaction on the market as well, with very few complaints about their products. They have five series to choose from and five different material options, including wood, vinyl, and fiberglass. Just like Marvin, they also have a proprietary fibrex material that is resistant to damage.
Andersen offers different types of warranties ranging from 10-20 years for new windows and a lifetime warranty for some replacement windows through their Renewal by Andersen sub-company.
Cons
Without a doubt, the biggest drawback to Andersen Windows is their price. Though it may not be considered a drawback to some who view it as an investment, it can be out of the budget for others.
Another thing to consider is that because Andersen focuses more on quality than having a large selection of products, their style and upgrade options are slimmer than Marvin or Pella.
Pella vs. Andersen vs. Marvin Patio Doors
Each of the aforementioned window companies is also in the business of patio doors.
Marvin
Currently, on their website, Marvin offers eight different styles of sliding patio doors. The price point is variable for each depending on which series you decide to go with.
Overall, consumer satisfaction is highest with Marvin patio doors regarding quality for the price. They offer the same type of warranty for their doors as they do for their windows.
These are reported to cost between $2,000-$4,000.
Pella
It’s difficult to find information about how many styles of patio doors Pella offers, but they do offer 4 different kinds – sliding, multi-slide, bi-fold, and hinged. For this reason, Pella provides more options than Marvin and Andersen. There is also the option to get vinyl doors, unlike Marvin.
The price can range from $800 for basic styles all the way up to a reported $7,000 for intricate projects.
Andersen
Andersen offers french, hinged, and sliding patio doors with about 10 different options altogether. Some are not customizable but the quality is considered to be above other companies in the industry.
They have a lifespan of about 30 years, and current reports put them between $2,000-$6,000. A large benefit for Andersen is that they can be available for self-install from certain large box stores, such as Home Depot and Lowe’s.
Final Thoughts
Don’t be afraid to ask for quotes and let sales representatives know you need to shop around. Doing your research is vital for any home improvement project.
You may need more styling options, a better warranty, or a competitive price. These factors will influence whatever door or window company you decide to go with.
