skip to main content

Comparable alternatives to Andersen 400?

8 years ago

My wife and I are building a new house in Eastern PA and our builder spec'd Andersen 400's. This is is a custom home and there will be nothing in the house that can be considered "builder grade." However, we don't have an unlimited budget so we need to find a balance between cost and quality. Are there any windows that are comparable in price to the 400's but can be considered higher quality? Just an FYI, our plan has 70 windows.

Featured Answer

lkbum_gw

8 years ago

"Custom" Integrity installation This link is a couple of years old now. We were in a similar situation and considering Andersen. Went with Integrity casement windows and doors. Very pleased with windows. There have been some reports of finish issues, we have not seen this problem. You can dress windows up with girds and simulated dividers. I've linked this before, just trying to help.

Sort by:Oldest

Comments (6)

PRO
Aspen Home Improvements
8 years ago
Okna 500 series windows are more energy efficient and from my understanding cheaper per window vs Andersen. They are local to Eastern PA (Bristol PA) overall a better quality window.
Related Discussions
Andersen Series 400 or Series 100
Q
Comments (33)
Sam Goh, Most dealers would be happy to sell to you even if they are hours away. But how much are you saving for that hassle? The local dealer is less likely to help you out with any problems if you left the area to make your purchase. That one small change you want to make after the fact might be $200 from your local dealer, but $800 if the other dealer has to make the drive to you. Same with Home Depot-do you think HD is going to help you at all if you need help later? If it's an appliance that will wear out in 5 yr anyway, that's one thing. When it's a part of your house that will be there for decades, I'd be glad to pay even a few thousand more from a reputable dealer that will be there for the minor problems. If you have ~60 windows, just keep in mind that it will be exponentially more expensive for you if you have to change them all out in 5-10 yr because they're junk... Just my $0.02, hope you can find a good solution that works well for you.
...See More
Andersen 200 vs. 400 series
Q
Comments (42)
I can't compare Andersen with Pella or any others, or the 200 series v. the 400 series, but I bought Anderson double hung windows and a sliding door, and I am sorely disappointed in them. I paid a LOT, esp. or the door. I had no choice but to get the top of the line because I had to get the bronze exterior color. The screens on the windows are flimsy. The hangers for the screen sliding door are plastic and break all the time. I've had problems with a new lock I installed on the sliding doors in December since December…. I would not buy Andersen again. But for all I know, the others are the same. I and so anti-corporate America right now. The greed is out of control; the mentality of cutting on quality in order to increase profits is anathema to me, but that's what they're doing, everywhere.
...See More
Window upgrade questions/pricing....(Andersen 400, Integrity)
Q
Comments (2)
The Marvins are normally cheaper than the 400s around here. The 400 is a solidly built window in my opinion. Depending on what you are needing, there are options beyond just those you mentioned and perhaps they might be worth looking into.
...See More
Andersen 400 Glider vs. Pella Impervia Slider
Q
Comments (9)
My husband had a Pella door installed about 10 years ago. We have all kinds of weather here in STL, MO and the door is in mint condition. I can't comment on the series you're looking at my but I love our Pella door. I'm getting ready to get a bid on windows and will be looking at Pella and Anderson.
...See More
fridge2020
8 years ago
Not sure that a vinyl window is comparable to an Andersen 400. Fine window, but two completely different animals. Also comes across as pretty spammy to post on a months-old thread with a "recommendation" that really doesn't answer the OP's question.
PRO
Aspen Home Improvements
8 years ago
The question was comparability in "price" not in type of window. As for being "spammy" it's a little over a month ago and I'm just getting used to using this forum but thanks for pointing these things out.
fridge2020
8 years ago
Finding month old post that appears to be in or near the area where you do business and promoting the product that you sell, and only that product, could be looked at as spammy, yes. Could bring credibility into question for some reading it. Your welcome for pointing it out. Welcome to the forum.
PRO
Aspen Home Improvements
8 years ago
Oh ok thanks. I'm not that familiar with other products in the market yet so not educated enough to suggest other manufacturer's for instance Soft-Lite or Marvin, so couldn't make a suggestion on price comparability. I do realize that yes a post that could be in my area looks that way. I'm just trying to get my ears wet a bit answering on a few posts while being neutral as to business. I should also mention my company does not do new construction homes.

Related Stories

WORKING WITH PROS How to Hire the Right Architect: Comparing Fees

By Dylan Chappell Architects

Learn common fee structures architects use and why you might choose one over another

KITCHEN COUNTERTOPS Kitchen Countertop Materials: 5 More Great Alternatives to Granite

By Kathryn Peltier Design

Get a delightfully different look for your kitchen counters with lesser-known materials for a wide range of budgets

FRONT YARD IDEAS Before and After: Front Lawn to Prairie Garden

By Benjamin Vogt / Monarch Gardens

How they did it: Homeowners create a plan, stick to it and keep the neighbors (and wildlife) in mind

SAVING WATER Xeriscape Gardens: How to Get a Beautiful Landscape With Less Water

By Jocelyn H. Chilvers

Conserve water and make gardening much easier with the xeriscape approach’s 7 principles

GARDENING GUIDES 6 Plants That Beat Butterfly Bush for the Wildlife Draw

By Benjamin Vogt / Monarch Gardens

It's invasive, a nonnative and a poor insect magnet. Check out these better alternatives to butterfly bush in the garden

SAVING WATER 11 Ways to Save Water at Home

By Carol Crotta

Whether you live in a drought-stricken area or just want to help preserve a precious resource, here are things you can do to use less water

LIFE The Top 5 Ways to Save Water at Home

Get on the fast track to preserving a valuable resource and saving money too with these smart, effective strategies

KITCHEN DESIGN Kitchen of the Week: Navy and Orange Offer Eclectic Chic in California

By Vanessa Brunner

Daring color choices mixed with a newly opened layout and an artful backsplash make for personalized luxury in a San Francisco kitchen

BATHROOM DESIGN 7 Tile Tips for Baths on a Budget

By KitchenLab Interiors

How to Add Style to Your Bathroom Without Breaking the Budget

DECORATING GUIDES 7 Home Purchases Worth the Splurge

By Erika Ward - Erika Ward Interiors

Make buyer's remorse over furniture, textiles and more a thing of the past with this wise purchasing advice

Sponsored

More Discussions

Should we keep three windows on this wall? Or add another?

20

space between window and kitchen door?

9

How can I improve the look of the 'shutter down' without expense

6

Blinds for angled windows

8

Need help - How to replace shutters with Flat Trim/Moulding?

1