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Anderson 400 Tilt-Wash Double Hung or Marvin Ultimate Double Hung

9 years ago

We are installing 12 insert (not full tear-out) windows in our home, and we are deciding between these two types of windows. Marvin costs more, and we are wondering what you get for the extra cost. Any advice appreciated!!

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PRO

HomeSealed Exteriors, LLC

4 years ago

last modified: 4 years ago

Donald, while I'd agree that full frame removal installations have multiple circumstances where they would be the preferred option, it would be categorically incorrect to state that "pocket installations do not address any issues that may have resulted from the previous windows".

Most homeowners are replacing their windows for energy efficiency, functionality, comfort, aesthetics, less maintenance, improved home value, etc. Pocket installs check all of those boxes and save money to boot. Now if the existing frames have substantial rot, new interior wood work is needed/desired, there is existing water infiltration, and/or the existing units are relatively narrow to the point that losing another 1/2" or so of glass per side would be noticeable (and so much so to justify hundreds more per window), then full frames are a very worthy consideration in those cases.

I don't mean to be argumentative in the least, but both installation styles are very viable depending on circumstances, and each has some pros and cons.

To the point of the thread, I'd agree with the consensus that Marvin is the superior option here.

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Comments (8)

PRO
Windows on Washington Ltd
9 years ago
I think the Marvin is prettier to start with, extruded Aluminum cladding, and I have heard fewer complaints about the Ultimates as compared to the 400s. I have surveyed a few sets of the 400s for unhappy customers for several reasons. Haven't (could just be dumb luck) had to do the same for any Ultimates customers.

Herb (Millworkman) knows wood like its his job (Sarcasm) and I am sure he will have some feedback.
millworkman
9 years ago
Not real familiar with the "insert" windows but I feel any of the Marvin Ultimates are a much better window than the Anderson. The 400 series in a new construction is a solid window and better than most but still not even close to on par with the Ultimates.
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fwiw, we got Marvin Clad Ultimate Double-Hungs for our kitchen renovation, and I am thrilled with how nice they look installed. I was not happy with how the Andersons in the showroom, even though our architect suggested them. We have an old house (> 100 years old), and the Marvins just fit the look of the existing windows in the rest of the house that I couldn't imagine putting the Andersons in. --Lee
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We regret that you are still confused about the window information you have recieved. Please call us at 888-888-7020 and we?ll try to help you. Andersen 400 Series Tilt-Wash and casement windows are available prepped for replacement in custom sizes to 1/8". This is the SAME window as our new construction product; it?s just custom sized (if needed) and prepped for use as a replacement product including a full frame and the materials needed to complete the job. It is true that an insert window for our Narroline product is available as well and that could be where the confusion began. Again, we have no plans to discontinue production of the Woodwright product. If what you are looking for is a custom sized, full-frame window, for use in new construction, remodeling or replacement we have it. In addition, we have a full range of glass, grille and hardware options to fit just about any style needs. I hope that helps.
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No, those are not installed prices. Just delivered to new construction site. The framers are installing them, under my supervision. Yes, the Andersen door we selected is terratone, a darker color than the Marvin color, but it is a door, not a window and the colors actually contrast pleasantly. Others might have a different opinion, but we liked the combination. I'm pretty sure the Andersen warranty is the same as the Marvin, and this door is under a porch that extends out up to 16 feet. It will seldom see any blowing rain or any direct sunlight. As for the showroom doors we looked at, the Andersen to us was just a better looking door. But the fit and finish looked much better to us. The Marvin's weatherstipping while probably effective looked sloppy to me, uneven, sticking out here and there. The door operation was not as smooth as the Andersen. And about $250 more in cost. So we went with the Andersen, even though I REALLY wanted to like the Marvin as it would have been easier to get it from the same dealer as my windows.
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For anyone else who finds this thread, I want to share this image I found which turned me away from doing the Elevate with black interiors - it's low res but I am pretty sure there is a white border around each window - would drive me crazy! My window guy shared photos of an Anderson window which has the same issue but the tracks are less visible. If we weren't upgrading to the Ultimate line I would consider switching to these instead of doing the Elevate. Wanted to also mention that we are keeping casement/picture windows in the Elevate line and upgrading only the double-hungs to the Ultimate line. I was delighted to find out that was an option and would work out aesthetically - apparently these lines are regularly mixed in the same home. I hope your window selection process is less stressful than mine :)
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toddinmn
9 years ago
The biggest difference between these 2 windows is the jambliner system.The Andersen uses an exposed vinyl jambliner that is a compression style. The Marvin track system is clad with wood so you do not see any vinyl. The other big difference is how they tilt in, the Marvin tilts in like a modern vinyl window(easy) the Andersen titls in like an old school jambliner system.The Andersen A series or Woodright would compare closer to the Marvin in features and price,
As far as perforance goes there will not be a big difference with the exception of Andersens vastly superior air infiltration numbers.
I have had more problems with Marvins, but that really was a product of the installaltion.
PRO
Windows on Washington Ltd
9 years ago
Todd,

Do you have any of the air data on the 400 that you can email me? I have a customer's house that is literally howling with the prevailing wind and as far as I can tell, they are hung pretty well (new construction).

Eric
toddinmn
9 years ago
They have it on there website.
Donald Silva
4 years ago
We’re doing Marvin Ultimates right now. I’d advise against doing a pocket installation, whichever window you choose. These are very high end windows and pocket installations do not address any issues that may have resulted from the previous windows. Installation is considerably more expensive, however, you end up with a much better result. Good luck!
PRO
Windows on Washington Ltd
4 years ago
Well said about the installation details HomeSealed. Spot on.

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