Andersen and Pella, Pella and Andersen. The two window giants are compared more often than any other two brands, and for a good reason; each company offers an impressive selection of windows ranging from affordable to luxurious, available in multiple materials and all window styles and sizes.

Pella Windows — Modern Farm House Bedroom

via Luxury Home Tours on Pella.com

This buying guide is your comprehensive source for window prices for both brands, plus their complete window series and style information. We start with what’s on every homeowner’s mind:

• How much do Pella windows cost?
• How much do Andersen windows cost?

This table lists the series, material and pricing details for all Pella and Andersen windows, making it easy to compare window costs:

Notes:

• Cost: The Cost column reflects windows of average size and most common features chosen by homeowners. Specific window costs will range slightly lower or higher based on the feature package chosen such as window size, glazing/glass package, extras like exterior cladding, custom grilles, built-in blinds or shades.
• Types Code: S=single-hung; D=double-hung; C=casement; A=awning; G=gliding or sliding. Most window series also offer picture/fixed windows and bay/bow window assemblies.

Did you Know? New construction windows are different from replacement windows.

All Pella series and all Andersen series except for Renewal series can be used for new construction or as replacement windows. — If they are new construction windows, the frames are manufactured with a nailing fin used to secure the windows to the home’s exterior sheathing.

Replacement windows are secured to the window opening through the side jamb, so the exterior siding doesn’t need to be disrupted.

If you’re doing a complete exterior makeover including siding replacement, then either type can be used.

Installation Costs

Window installation costs less for new construction projects for two reasons:

There are no old windows to remove first and windows quickly nail to the exterior sheathing on the home.

Installing replacement windows in older homes can take significantly longer if the window openings have shifted or warped or if they need repair. — These delays will increase installation cost.

Window installation costs below apply to labor and supplies required for all window types, double-hung, casement, fixed, etc.

• New window installation cost: $140-$235 per window
• Replacement window installation cost: $195-$350 per window
• Bay/Bow window installation cost: $300-$575 per window assembly

Cost-to-Value Return

National home remodeling and sales data show that window replacement return on investment ranges from about 73% for upscale windows (Pella 750 Designer and higher, Andersen 400 Series and higher, plus Renewal.) and up to 80% for more affordable Pella and Andersen window lines. This is also called cost-to-value return.

For example, if you spend $10,000 on new windows, the potential sale price of your home in the first 10 years will be $7,300 to $8,000 higher.

New windows can help a home sell, especially when the listing price is near the upper end of a potential buyer’s range. The buyer will have the assurance that replacing the windows won’t be an expense for 15-25 years.

Pro Tip: If you plan to sell your home in the next few years, replacing the windows isn’t a cost-effective choice unless they are in such poor condition they’ll turn off buyers.

A better approach is to give potential buyers an allowance sufficient to cover the mid-grade new windows like Pella 350/450 or Andersen 200/400 Series. — This would cover their costs. The buyers could also use the money toward a premium window brand, allowing the buyers to choose the kind of windows they like the best for the price.

Andersen Vs. Pella Window Comparison

Pella makes a broader range of window series than Andersen. Each makes four solid wood series. Pella makes the fiberglass Impervia Series which compares with the Andersen 100 Series, though at a higher cost.

Andersen 100-Series Windows

Did you know? The primary difference is that Pella makes three vinyl window lines, and Andersen doesn’t make vinyl products.

Pella Architect Series / 850 Series

Pella Architect Series

Pella Architect series windows are made in two sub-lines. The Architect Series Traditional windows are beefier with very classic styling. The Architect Series Contemporary windows are sleeker, lither with very clean sight lines. Here’s what they offer:

• Materials: Pine, Douglas fir, mahogany, white oak, red oak, cherry and maple (Traditional); Pine, Douglas fir and mahogany (Contemporary)
• Interior colors: 4 paint and 9 stain options.
• Exterior colors: 27 colors of aluminum cladding.
• Hardware: 5 Traditional and 9 Contemporary finishes in several styles.
• Sizes: Standard and Custom
• Window types: Single-hung, double-hung, casement and awning (Traditional); Casement and awning (Contemporary).
• Glass: 4 glass package options.
• Accessories: 4 grille styles and 2 screen types. Insynctive window sensors integrate with smart home security systems.
• Warranty: Lifetime Limited.

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