We're finally getting around to replacing the windows in our house (it's a 70s ranch, nothing fancy but we love it). Anyway, we've narrowed things down to Marvin and Andersen because they're both pretty reputable and seem to have decent reviews. Thing is, I keep seeing mixed opinions online—some folks swear by Marvin's quality and say they're worth every penny, while others claim Andersen windows hold up better over time.
I mean, we're not exactly rolling in cash here, so durability and maintenance are big factors for us. If you've had either brand installed for a while now, how've they held up? Any regrets or unexpected issues down the road? Would really appreciate hearing some real-life experiences before we bite the bullet...
I've installed both Marvin and Andersen windows for clients over the years, and honestly, they're both solid choices. But since you're specifically mentioning durability and maintenance as key factors, here's what I've observed long-term:
Marvin windows typically have excellent craftsmanship—tight seals, smooth operation, and they hold their looks well. The wood interiors are especially nice if you prefer that natural finish. However, they might need a bit more upkeep if you're going with wood frames (think occasional refinishing or repainting every few years).
Andersen windows, especially their Fibrex composite frames (like the 100 or Renewal series), tend to be lower maintenance overall. They're durable in harsh weather conditions and don't usually need repainting or refinishing. I've seen Andersen windows installed 15+ years ago still looking pretty good with minimal fuss.
"I mean, we're not exactly rolling in cash here, so durability and maintenance are big factors for us."
Given your priorities, I'd lean slightly toward Andersen's composite options for less hassle down the road. But either way, proper installation is key—make sure whoever does the work knows their stuff.
Good points all around. I've had Andersen Fibrex windows at my place for about 12 years now, and honestly, they've held up great—no painting, no fuss, even through some nasty winters. Marvin's wood interiors do look fantastic, but yeah, the upkeep can sneak up on you.
"Given your priorities, I'd lean slightly toward Andersen's composite options for less hassle down the road."
One thing I'm curious about though...anyone notice differences in warranty support between Marvin and Andersen long-term?
I've had pretty good experiences with Andersen's warranty support myself. Had a minor issue with one of my Fibrex windows about 8 years in—just a small seal failure causing some fogging. Called them up, and honestly, they were pretty responsive. Sent someone out within a couple weeks, no hassle, no runaround. They replaced the sash free of charge, no questions asked.
On the other hand, my brother-in-law went with Marvin (wood interiors) and had a similar issue around year 6 or 7. Marvin did honor the warranty, but he mentioned it took a bit longer to get someone out there, and he had to jump through a few more hoops—photos, paperwork, etc. Nothing terrible, just a bit more involved.
Overall, I'd say both companies stand behind their products, but Andersen seems a bit smoother and quicker on the warranty front. If you're leaning toward low-maintenance anyway, Andersen's probably the safer bet long-term.
Had Marvin Ultrex fiberglass installed about 9 years ago—no issues yet. Andersen's Fibrex seems solid too, but I preferred Marvin's fiberglass for thermal stability and minimal expansion/contraction. Warranty experience sounds smoother with Andersen, though. Both decent choices overall.
Been considering Marvin myself, but curious—has anyone here actually had to use the Andersen warranty process? Is it really smoother, or is that just marketing hype...? Warranty claims can be a headache no matter what the brand.
I've never personally had to use Andersen's warranty (knock on wood... or vinyl?), but my neighbor across the street did last summer. He had some kind of weird condensation issue between the panes. Anyway, he said it wasn't exactly a walk in the park—but compared to other warranty nightmares he's had, Andersen was pretty decent. They sent someone out fairly quickly and replaced the glass without a ton of hassle. He did mention it took a few phone calls to get things rolling, but honestly, that's probably standard for any big company.
On the flip side, I've heard Marvin's warranty process can be solid too, but again, second-hand info here. My cousin installed Marvin windows about five years ago and hasn't had any problems yet (lucky guy). He jokes that he's almost disappointed he hasn't had to test their warranty yet—said something like "I paid extra for peace of mind, and now I don't even get to use it!"
Honestly though, warranties are always a bit of a gamble no matter who you go with. Companies love to market their "easy warranty process," but when push comes to shove, you're still dealing with customer service reps and paperwork... fun times, right?
Personally, I lean toward Andersen just because I've seen them hold up well over time in our climate (cold winters, humid summers). But both brands seem pretty solid overall. Maybe it's less about warranty ease and more about choosing whichever brand makes you less likely to NEED that warranty in the first place? Just my two cents!
We went with Marvin windows about eight years ago, mostly because my brother-in-law swore by them after installing them in his place. Honestly, they've held up pretty well through some brutal winters and humid summers—no drafts or condensation yet. But I will say, a friend of ours down the street has Andersen windows that are even older, maybe 12-13 years now, and they're still going strong too.
One thing I've noticed is that installation quality seems just as important as the brand itself. Our neighbors across the street had Andersen windows installed by a different contractor, and they've had a few minor issues—mostly small leaks around the frames. Turns out the installers cut corners on sealing everything properly. So whichever brand you choose, make sure you get someone reputable to install them right. Good windows won't mean much if they're not put in correctly.
At the end of the day, both Marvin and Andersen seem solid enough to last long-term, assuming they're installed properly. I'd probably just go with whichever one offers the style and features you prefer.
I've been researching this exact topic lately since we're planning to replace our windows soon. From what I've gathered, both Marvin and Andersen have solid reputations, but you're spot-on about installation quality being critical. Even the best windows can fail prematurely if they're not sealed and flashed correctly. I'm leaning slightly toward Andersen myself because their Fibrex material seems pretty durable and low-maintenance...but honestly, either brand should hold up fine if installed properly.
"Even the best windows can fail prematurely if they're not sealed and flashed correctly."
Couldn't agree more with this point. A few years back, we replaced our windows with Andersen Fibrex, and while they've held up pretty well overall, we had one window that started leaking after just two winters. Turned out it wasn't the window itself but a sloppy installation job—poor flashing around the frame. Once we got that sorted, it's been smooth sailing.
I'm curious though, has anyone here had Marvin fiberglass windows for a longer period? I've heard good things about their durability too, especially in harsher climates. Andersen's Fibrex is solid, but fiberglass seems like it might handle temperature swings even better. Would love to hear some real-world experiences on that front...