If you’re shopping for replacement windows, you’ve likely come across Andersen Corporation, a window and door manufacturer with a sparkling reputation for high-quality windows. Andersen Windows is a company well-known for its energy efficiency features, durable window framing, and wide selection of window types and series. But you may be wondering how Andersen Windows warranties work and how they stack up compared to other window providers.
Companies like Andersen that have strong warranties may be more expensive initially, but the long-term protection on your investment makes this up-front cost worth it. Keep reading for a comprehensive review of Andersen Window warranties.
4.1
Exclusive Fibrex framing
A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
Team of certified installers
4.3
Impressive customer ratings
Lifetime window warranties
Large catalog of additional remodeling services
4.3
Offers wood and vinyl framing
Outstanding customizability
Seven glass options
How Long Is the Andersen Window Warranty?
Andersen provides different warranties for its window series, such as its E-series, A-series windows, and 400 Series windows, along with unique warranties on its patio doors. Unfortunately, with such a diverse array of product lines, figuring out coverage can be frustrating when browsing Andersen products. But we’ve summarized the most common warranty coverage types below to make it as easy to understand as possible:
20-Year Glass and Fibrex Warranty
This warranty protects you if the glass or Fibrex material has any manufacturing or workmanship defects for the first 20 years from the purchase date. If any faults are found or the glass breaks, Andersen will replace or repair the window at no additional cost to you. In the window industry, this is a relatively standard coverage period for glass unless you go with a company like Castle Windows, which offers lifetime glass warranty coverage.
10-Year Hardware Warranty
The hardware warranty ensures that all Andersen-manufactured hardware components, such as screens, locks, handles, hinges, and weatherstripping, are free of defects for 10 years from the purchase date. So, if the lock on your window breaks off or fails, you can put in a claim for free replacement parts if you are within 10 years of the purchase date. This is a relatively standard warranty period for hardware.
2-Year Installation Warranty
The labor warranty guarantees your windows in the case of improper installation for two years from the window installation date, as long as you have the windows installed by an Andersen-certified contractor. Unfortunately, this isn’t a very long period for coverage, as we’ve seen companies offering installation warranties for over a decade.
For specific warranty information, explore Andersen’s sample warranty section to learn about coverage for individual products.
Andersen Warranty Periods Compared to Competitors
So, how does Andersen’s warranty compare to its competitors? My research found that Andersen has an average warranty period for the industry. Despite advertising a strong limited lifetime warranty, parts of its warranty are about average, with hardware coverage only receiving 10 years or coverage and labor receiving two years.
| Andersen | Pella* | Castle Windows | |
| Glass coverage warranty in years | 20 | 20 | Lifetime |
| Frame coveragewarranty in years | 20 | 10 | Lifetime |
| Hardware coverage warranty in years | 10 | 10 | Lifetime |
| Labor/Installationwarranty in years | 2 | 2 | Lifetime |
It’s important to note that if you install Andersen windows yourself, you void the labor and installation warranty coverage. Watch the following video on how to choose an Andersen-certified installer to avoid this issue:
What Does the Andersen Warranty Cover?
Warranty coverage varies based on the window series purchased through Andersen. For the following example, I looked into Andersen’s Limited Warranty for its popular 400 series, 200 series, and patio doors.
This warranty includes 20-year glass coverage, which provides for common issues like material changes in appearance due to manufacturing defects or premature failure of the organic seal or glass. The grilles and tempered glass are also guaranteed to be free from defects for 20 years. Its 10-year transferable limited warranty on components other than glass includes issues due to manufacturing defects, accidents, “Acts of God, ” and normal wear and tear — although the fine print says this is at the Andersen dealer’s discretion.
We found that Andersen provides five years of warranty coverage for windows and doors with wood exteriors, which is less than its Fibrex line and something to keep in mind, depending on the type of window you’re interested in purchasing.
Overall, most Andersen products are covered by 20 years for glass, 10 years for hardware, and two years for labor-related issues, assuming you have an Andersen-certified installer to replace your windows.
Like most window providers, installing the windows yourself or improper maintenance can void your warranty. To avoid this messy situation, always read the specific warranty for your new windows closely for any fine print and exclusions, and make sure to use a certified installer.
How to File an Andersen Warranty Claim
If you need to file an Andersen warranty claim, take the following steps:
- Gather as much documentation as possible, including photos, proof of purchase, contractor information (if installation services-related), and details about when the problem started.
- Fill out the contact form on Andersen’s website or scroll to the bottom of the page and enter your city or zip code to locate information on your local Andersen retailer.
- Call the provided phone number to speak with a local retailer, or wait until an Andersen representative contacts you.
- Provide any information requested by the representative to expedite your claim process.
- If you run into a dispute, don’t be afraid to reach out again with further questions and information so you can continue with your dispute resolution.
When starting the warranty claim process, be sure to have your proof of purchase, photos documenting the issue, and specific details on when the problem started. Providing complete information up-front will help expedite the claim.
DIY Warranty Repairs Vs. Hiring a Professional
Professional window installation can easily add hundreds of dollars to your home improvement project, which isn’t ideal, no matter what your budget is. However, most of us don’t have the necessary tools and experience to safely and correctly install new windows. For example, installing an awning window typically requires climbing a tall ladder, which many homeowners aren’t comfortable with due to the dangerous risk of falling. In this case, a professional installation is certainly the way to go.
Another issue is that an improperly installed window can cost you far more money than the initial contractor fee. If a window is improperly installed, it can lead to air leaks, quickly raising your energy bills or even damaging the new window itself or your home’s structure.
Most importantly, an Andersen-certified installation means you don’t void the labor warranty coverage and, possibly, other parts of the coverage if you improperly install the frame, glass, or hardware. If you void this warranty, you could need to replace the glass, hardware, grille, or more yourself — a far more expensive situation than having the windows professionally installed.
Transferring the Warranty When Selling Your Home
A major benefit of the Andersen warranty is that it’s transferable to new homeowners if the windows are included in the sale of your home. This is a huge bonus for interested buyers because they receive high-quality windows with their new home and a warranty that continues to protect the windows afterward. If you’re considering selling your home, bring up this transferable warranty to your real estate agent so they can appropriately value your home, including the protection from the warranty.
Key Takeaways on Andersen’s Window Warranty
Overall, we found that Andersen window products have standard warranties among the top window providers in the industry. There weren’t any massive red flags or exclusions that we came across, but the warranty also wasn’t a standout in terms of how long the coverage was effective.
Most windows are only expected to last between 15 and 20 years, so a 20-year glass and Fibrex warranty should be sufficient for most homeowners. If certain products from Andersen, like its ENERGY-STAR-certified windows or glazing options, catch your eye, this is still a company I recommend, thanks to its fantastic reputation, high-quality products, and energy efficiency. The transferable warranty is another significant benefit for anyone who may sell their home in the next few years because of the added value.
4.1
Exclusive Fibrex framing
A+ rating with the Better Business Bureau
Team of certified installers
4.3
Impressive customer ratings
Lifetime window warranties
Large catalog of additional remodeling services
4.3
Offers wood and vinyl framing
Outstanding customizability
Seven glass options
FAQs About Andersen Window Warranties
How long is Andersen's window warranty?
Andersen offers warranties with different coverage, depending on the window series and type. If an Andersen-certified contractor installs the new windows, most Andersen products have 20 years of glass and Fibrex coverage, 10 years of hardware coverage, and a two-year labor warranty.
Are all Anderson windows guaranteed for life?
Anderson windows aren’t guaranteed for life. Unlike companies like Castle Windows, Anderson offers a limited warranty with a maximum of 20 years of protection on glass, 10 years on hardware, and only two years on installation.
How do I claim my Andersen warranty?
Visit the Andersen website and submit a contact form requesting help, or call the phone number of a local Andersen retailer. Then, provide the necessary information, such as proof of purchase, photos of your windows, and other information about when the problem occurred so that your Andersen representative can assess the situation and provide you with the necessary support valid under your window warranty.
How long is a window installation warranty?
Most window providers offer window installation warranties of one to five years. Labor warranties are usually much less extensive compared to other parts of the window warranty, such as the hardware or glass.
Why are Renewal by Andersen windows so expensive?
Renewal by Andersen windows are made from high-quality, energy-efficient materials, which add to the average window cost of its products. Energy-efficient windows typically have several panes of glass, low-E glazes, and other pricier materials that make them more expensive up-front. However, Anderson products are investments that can save you significant money in the long run. Andersen also offers a solid warranty, giving you extra protection should your window have defects, which adds to the overall cost.
