Best Fiberglass Windows For The Money - Composite Windows Comparison

[@waynebrissette9459]

There's a pretty big price difference between the two. I just ordered 23 windows (from one of Jeff's listed dealers) and when we compared three of the top three windows (Andersen, Pella, Marvin) for our forever home, we knew it was going to be expensive, but when you price compare and product compare, I think Marvin is the best product, but priced accordingly, Andersen was a good product, but way overpriced for what you get. On the other hand, the impervia I felt was a good balance between cost and quality. And I think that's the key, is the Pella product perfect, no, but when you have to replace every window in your house and you're walking a balance between quality and value, there is a compromise. We just felt the Impervia was a good compromise, and at the end of the day, as Jeff points out, as long as you know the differences and can live with them, that's what matters.

[@AWCH369]

I’m a contractor that covers several states. We purchase windows from a wide range of manufactures. I’d like your connection for buying Pella. I buy direct from Pella and Marvin has always come in atleast a little cheaper and other times a lot cheaper. Marvin’s window specs tend to come out on top too… plus the fine print in Pella glass warranty says it doesn’t guarantee there’s any argon in the window once it leaves the factory, I had a customer pointed out to me one time.

[@jeffzhang3144]

Would you mind share the quoted price difference between Pella and Marvin? Appreciated!

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

It's about 20% more

[@jeffzhang3144]

@@HoustonWindowExperts thank you for your info. Now we all know infinity is better than Impervia. What's your opinion comparing Pella Impervia vs. Marvin Essential then?

[@mnngstar]

Just had two quotes this week. Pella and an installer that does Marvin. Everything equal Black exterior / white interior and same style windows - Pella was more by about $4500, but would match the price. I think this and a few other reviews may have convinced me to go Marvin.

[@gregcorwin8316]

Great comparison, Infinity is a good looking window.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Thank you

[@shawnpuffy]

If you want the best then hands down Infinity from Marvin is the only choice. I am so happy with mine!

[@missj7765]

Could you let me know the glass specs you chose? Tempered vs laminate vs stc version and how they are performing

[@shawnpuffy]

@@missj7765 I chose the STC/OITC glass to dampen noise outside from the highway near me. I went with the Low E2 also and satin nickel hardware. You can go white hardware to save some money. I researched all windows focusing on Pella, Andersen and Infinity by Marvin. Fiberglass is the way to go! Vinyl will break down over time and Andersen is just vinyl and wood chips mixed in. Fiberglass has basically the same properties as glass so much less likely to separate from the glass over time. The seals are like what refrigerators have and I've had them for 18 months and LOVE them! These are the best windows period but you will pay for them. You can expect to pay $1550 to $1700 per window installed and that is with a 24% discount in the spring every year. They have a lifetime one time transferable warranty and the last windows you will buy. The investment is a no brainer whether you stay in your home forever or sell down the road. Double hung with screens. Don't skimp on windows. I have seen people buy windows for $500 to $1000 per window and the seals break within 10 to 20 years. You should only pay for windows once in your life. My heat and A/C barely come on also because I keep the HVAC air circulating and the temperature stays constant. My gas bill on the budget for a 825 square foot 2 bedroom house is $54 per month.

[@webbmoncure]

Both of these windows have a compelling and long-lasting material matrix and certainly have their place in both new construction and replacement/remodeling. The Ultrex material which is available Marvin's Infinity (replacement line), Elevate, and Essentials product offerings is the superior composite material in my experience. I have Essentials windows and Elevate doors on one of my homes, and while they are a competitive product with the offerings of my employer (Weather Shield Windows), they are a fine composite product. Both Pella and Marvin share the Cardinal insulated glass units which I recommend and, in fact, absolutely require with my window clientele. I strongly believe that the windows, when white composite, are a great product; however, with the darker colors I would recommend an AAMA 2605 rated finish in aluminum clad as they are more fade resistant than the co-extruded/pultruded acrylic finishes on composite material. There are design limitations with these products, and while they are certainly reliable workhorses for many projects, when you have more architecturally demanding or larger sized windows in construction projects a clad product oftentimes fits the bill better than composite.

[@xtriam]

Great video explaining these differences.

[@atomictyler]

I really really like the Marvin one, but for reasons beyond me the company in our area quoted 65% more than the Pella Impervia. I'm willing to pay a bit more for the Marvin, but not 65% more. it's incredibly frustrating, feels like I'm dealing with a cars salesman while trying to get new windows. edit: After emailing with Jeff it seems we might be getting quotes that aren't for the same work or one that's not for all the work required. Thank you so much, Jeff!

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Interesting.. if like to see your proposal. Can You email it to me! [e-mail]

[@atomictyler]

@@HoustonWindowExperts Well we just put our deposit down for the Infinity from Marvin windows. Can't wait to get them in and these old aluminum ones from the 70s out! Thank you for the help, Jeff!

[@lindasingleton1828]

I wish you all would come to Tennessee and open up a showroom and put windows in here. I have been checking and some companies around here all have their own windows they use from a certain place. I am not sure how well theirs are made. Kind of confused on which kind on one's to buy. Composite or vinal, and which grade. I have an older home and it is one level. Trying to decide ND then find a company that sells them here. I did see where Liwes carries some Pella windows, but not sure how good or what grade they are. Thanks for all you do.. Also reading the comments ,for some help

[@mikeklahr1484]

Dale or huskey in the Nashville area for Marvin

[@lindasingleton1828]

Anyone o. Here from Tennessee or had windows put in here. Ifvso what company did you go with and what kind of windows ??? Thanks

[@sa3270]

Really enjoyed this very thorough comparison.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Glad you enjoyed it!

[@karenterentjev4766]

Have you looked at the fiberglass product from Milgard yet?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Yes, I was the number one Milgard dealer in Texas for many years. They got bought out by another company and pulled their operation out of Texas. In my opinion, they are not the company they used to be. I would not purchase their products unless you had no other alternatives available.

[@jayty978]

A Jeff quick question. What do you think of the alside 1900 series and the alside Mezzo window.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

I have had very limited experience with those products. However, from my initial observations, they are entry level vinyl products. I do think you could do better.

[@carolinaherrera559]

Great video! 👌🏻

[@petp]

Are there different styles of Impervia double hungs? I just watched a video (by 'Siding and Windows wizard") and the window on that video has NO weep holes. odd?

[@stephen5147]

The Infinity line is called "Replacement" widows. Are they suitable for New Construction?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Yes, they can be ordered either way.

[@supergogeta247]

What is the percentage of silica in both products?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

I don't have that information.

[@joshtaylor5766]

Are these the best windows in your opinion? If not what is your favorite black inside & out casements for a mixed climate.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Infinity for sure.

[@hapaboy0808]

I wish you had a in-depth review/comparison on the Marvin Essential line

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Coming soon

[@hapaboy0808]

@@HoustonWindowExperts Thank you Looking forward to it!

[@gregmullin7560]

Thanks for all the videos - really helping me with my search. I am a bit confused on some of the Marvin product. I received pricing on Marvin Essentials. Is that the same as Marvin Infinity, or what is the difference? I am having a heard time finding information that answers that question. Thanks!

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

It's a cousin to infinity. Not the same profile or as elegant, but very nice! If you cannot find the infinity product in your area, it would be the next best thing.

[@gregmullin7560]

@@HoustonWindowExperts thank you so much! Really appreciate your help.

[@jeffzhang3144]

​@HoustonWindowExperts do you have video to compare Marvin casement style for all series of Marvin? Thanks

[@KimCole-hc1ph]

Is there a dealer like you in Wichita, KS?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

I started a website to help people locate a great window company near them. We may have someone in your area. Please visit TheWindowExperts.com

[@lindasingleton1828]

Are the Pella windows that Lowes carries a good window or it it a lower grade of Pella windows ??

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

They only carry a couple of the products in their stores. The better products are only available through a Pella distributor or dealer.

[@wesleychurch5433]

Are they both single hung or just the Pella?

[@rinkevichjm]

Either of them use e340 e180 i89 triple pane?

[@michelehalaby4950]

Where does the Marvin Infinity price wise fall when comparing against Marvin Ultimate, Elevate and Essential?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Essentially, it's like General Motors. They have Chevy, GMC, and Cadillac. That's the same as Marvin having Essentials, Elevate, and Infinity. Each level has better construction, options, and aesthetics. The Ultimate is at the very top of their price point because it involves more expensive materials and more labor.

[@michaelteneyck949]

Is the Marvin Essential line the same quality as the Infinity? We can not get the Infinity where I am located so I'd like to know how the Essential line compares to the Impervia? Thank you so much!!!

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

If you can't get infinity, the essentials would do the trick.

[@markwexy1621]

​@@HoustonWindowExpertsI thought the Essential window is the new construction version of the Infinity window, which I thought was a replacement window. Do I have that right?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

@markwexy1621 it is primary used for new construction, but can be modified for retrofit.

[@stephen5147]

There is a lot of talk of Marvin, Anderson, Pella, etc. Why no mention of another contender - Alpen windows?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

I've never heard of them. Sorry. Send me one and I'll review it.

[@kristencounsell9225]

How would you compare the Marvin Infinity to the Anlin Del Mar E series? I am located within 5 miles of the San Diego coast line and need less than 10 windows for my home.

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Both are terrific products but they are made from different materials and in different price points. You would be happy with either product.

[@kristencounsell9225]

@@HoustonWindowExperts Thanks! Just learned that there is no Marvin Infinity San Diego dealer. Guess I’m sticking with Anlin. 😂

[@kathrynchalfant6249]

Pella was the worst decision we made!! Like many, we needed to replace all the windows in the house and were totally swayed by the Pella's lower cost, not really understanding the QUALITY difference. Now that we know the failures of Pella, we are choosing to replace certain windows with Marvin. Save yourself the kick in the gut and go with Marvin. Pella has a terrible air leakage rating and will leak freezing air into your home during winter.

[@zstackgo]

I wish us non-installing Marvin dealers could sell the Infinity… alas, in our area (central NC) they’re only available as a “turn-key” installed product. Our top product is the Marvin Elevate, which is basically the same window, but with a natural pine interior. Love your channel btw!!

[@mr.independent3501]

Jeff….. I’m building a new home in 2025. Would you recommend Infinity for new construction? I’m stuck between Marvin Infinity and Andersen 400

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

I would definitely go with any of the Marvin products over the Andersen products. The infinity product must be installed by the dealer in order to retain its warranty. If you do not want the dealer to do the work for you, you could consider the Marvin essentials fiberglass line. It's not as nice as Infinity but it will do the job and you can install it using your own installation team.

[@mr.independent3501]

@ outstanding advice and big thanks….

[@kevinhillebrand5233]

Love your analysis. Take a peek at the Gilkey Fiberglass products. Might be worth checking them out.

[@Holyheart1]

I did 5 double hung 20.000 does anyone think that’s a good price ?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

What product? That seems high to me.

[@Holyheart1]

@@HoustonWindowExperts Gilkey Wondow I said no way way to high

[@gracegirl3]

Hi Jeff, appreciate all we have learned from you since finding your channel. Live in Chicago western suburbs. Could you please recommend a company to us? We prefer to contact them and not have them contacting us. Still learning all we need to be prepared! Thank you so much

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

I started a website to help people locate a great window company near them. We may have someone in your area. Please visit TheWindowExperts.com In the contact form, let us know you just want a name and don't want to be contacted by a dealer.

[@gracegirl3]

@@HoustonWindowExperts hi jeff, I've tried on the form but it keeps saying I have to check the box allowing you to share our info so it won't let me submit ?

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

Send an email to [e-mail]

[@raymondergarcia]

Darn, I just put in a pella impervia window package in my new construction! Haha...

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

It's a good product, I just don't think it's as nice as the Infinity.

[@davidchavez81]

In the composite world that "rough hewn" look is called "print-through" and is not a good thing.

[@jeffzhang3144]

If I recalled correctly, Jeff you had Pella installed for your own home from your previous video? 😂

[@HoustonWindowExperts]

The house I purchased 6 years ago had 15 year old Pella Windows in it. They are the wood windows and have had a lot of issues with rotting and seal failure. They are not in such a desperate position that I need to replace them yet, but I will eventually replace them all with the infinity fiberglass window. I am replacing three units next month with infinity that are failing and rotting.

[@petelinster7093]

Would never do business here in Florida. My friend ordered over $75,000 in windows.last year. They have yet to complete the job and going after him to pay for unfinished work. Don't trust Pella in Jax Fla!

[@dustbat]

Glad I do not need new windows. I do not trust any of these companies. Even Anderson in its adds now say if your windows are 7 years old you may need new windows. I have 35 year old standard historic M&W windows and they are still there. With PVC for sill and molding they should (if you could buy them) last for 100 years. I looked at Marvin back in 88 and the first words out of her mouth was "You know they are expensive". Excuse me for coming in! I do Wonder what rick folks buy that insist on the Williamsburg grids. The secret for me is warranty if I had to buy new. Enjoyed the class.🦇

[@bentonc6619]

You would like universal windows direct. They have a great lifetime warranty that covers everything including labor. I will never have to buy windows again

[@dustbat]

@@bentonc6619 That is interesting but I am too close to the gate. Would like to see them though. Thanks for reply.🦇

[@tarahall1025]

Enerlux? Kolbe? I'm so confused! Okay- Cardinal glass...I can get behind that. I'm so confused. I'll read the comments.

[@Holyheart1]

I have 20 yr old Pella aluminum clad windows and there trash all rooted away junk

[@gloriaroma-sandiegorealest4037]

Pella has the WORST installation. Lost my dog, took 3 weeks not 3 day’s, tried to install 2x4’s instead of a proper header. Highly do NOT recommend Pella.

[@dgetty6962]

This was a heavily biased review...didn't even compare the same product types or mention the fiberglass strength differences.

[@shawnpuffy]

There is no bias. Put in the research and you will find that Infinity by Marvin is #1 and there is no close second but I would put Pella #2 and Andersen #3. Fiberglass in king in the window world. Vinyl does not compare.