What’s the difference between Andersen and Renewal by Andersen windows? Homeowners researching new windows in Cary, NC ask us this question when trying to pick the best window for their home.
In this post, we’ll explain the differences and similarities in these products.
We’ve also made you a handy printable of the differences between Andersen and Renewal by Andersen windows that you’ll find at the bottom of the post.
Make and Manufacturing
Andersen and Renewal are both owned and manufactured by Andersen Windows and Doors. In fact, the company manufactured both windows in the same factory in Bayport, MN, until 2019.
Now, Andersen only makes their core product windows in the original factory. They manufacture Renewal by Andersen windows at a plant in Cottage Grove, MN.
Window installation project types
You can use Andersen windows in four types of projects:
- New construction
- Window replacement
- In commercial projects
- DIY (homeowners can self-install these windows if they choose to)
By contrast, Renewal by Andersen only offers replacement windows. Only a Renewal by Andersen franchise installation team can install them. This means that you cannot choose Renewal by Andersen windows if you are building a new home. You also cannot have an independent contractor or home remodeler install a Renewal by Andersen window, nor can you install one yourself.
Type of window
Andersen windows sells five window series in their product line:
- 100-series
- 200-series
- 400-series
- Andersen A-series
- Andersen E-series
Within each of these product lines, homeowners may choose whether they would like a full frame window or a replacement window.
By contrast, Renewal by Andersen windows only offers one product: an insert replacement window. Installers insert these windows into the frame of an existing window.
Color options
Smart homeowners know that the color window you choose can have a huge impact on your home’s look and curb appeal.
Renewal by Andersen windows come in nine exterior and nine interior colors. Click here to see Renewal by Andersen’s available color options.
If you are considering Andersen windows, the number of colors available will differ depending on the series you choose. For example, the Andersen E-series line comes in 50 standard exterior colors. Up to four of these may be combined to deliver a truly custom color window. You may also experiment with anodized finishes to create an even more distinct look.
Materials
Renewal by Andersen makes windows out of Fibrex®. This material is Andersen’s proprietary fusion of reclaimed wood fiber and thermoplastic polymer. This composite material is strong, can stand up to temperature extremes, and is blister and fade resistant.
Andersen windows in the 100-series are also made of Fibrex®. Windows in the 400-seris and the A-series include Fibrex® components.
In addition, Andersen also offers window series made from other materials (wood, vinyl, aluminum, and fiberglass).
Cost
It is difficult to compare cost on these products, as the cost of a window can be quite variable depending on your specific needs.
If you are looking to make as direct a comparison as possible, the Andersen 400-series Woodwright window is the most comparable to the window offered by Renewal by Andersen. The look and materials used are nearly identical, with only slight differences between the two. That’s because Andersen designed the Renewal window based on the 400-series Woodwright.
Savvy window shoppers may reference reviews from other homeowners to inform their buying decisions. As you read reviews about the Pro’s and Con’s of Renewal by Andersen, you will likely see many homeowners note that Renewal by Andersen windows cost significantly more than comparable Andersen windows.
Sales
Only Renewal by Andersen franchise owners can sell the Renewal window. These franchises typically do an in-home sales pitch to homeowners.
By contrast, Certified Dealers sell Andersen windows. They may also carry other window brands.
These dealers may be large (Home Depot) or small, family owned businesses like Window Works Co. Of course, various dealers may have different sales methods.
We at Window Works Co. invite our customers to visit our showroom. Here homeowners can see examples of the Andersen windows and other window lines we carry to help them decide which window is best for their home.
Warranty
The warranties offered on both window options are essentially comparable.
Andersen and Renewal by Andersen both offer a 20-year warranty on the window glass. They also both offer a 10-year warranty on the non-glass-components of new windows.
Where the warranties differ is in the installation or labor warranty. Renewal by Andersen franchises warranty the installation of their products for 2 years.
The labor warranty you are offered by a dealer who provides installation will of course be variable, based on what that dealer provides. Here at Window Works Co., we offer homeowners in the Triangle region of North Carolina a 2 year labor warranty on any product we install.
Printable comparison chart
Click the image below to print a PDF of our comparison chart. 
Summary
We sincerely hope that you have found this comparison helpful. Deciding which window is right for your home can feel overwhelming, as there are so many products to compare.
When you’re ready to replace the windows in your home, you need to work with professionals you trust. That way, you’ll know you have all the information you need to make the right decision.
Our expert product guides can help you find the windows you’ll love. Complete the form below to tell us about your project and get your free estimate appointment scheduled.
