When it comes to replacing the windows in your home, you want to make the best choice for functionality, aesthetics, and budget. Two popular brands to consider are Feldco and Pella windows.
They both offer high-quality windows but have some key differences. This comprehensive guide examines the pros, cons, features, prices, and reviews for both brands so you can determine which is better for your needs.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Factor | Feldco | Pella |
| Frame Materials | Vinyl, Fiberglass | Wood, Fiberglass, Vinyl |
| Styles Offered | Good selection | Very extensive options |
| Glass Technology | Dual-pane, Low-E | Triple-pane, advanced Low-E |
| Aesthetic Quality | Average | Very high-end |
| Price | Affordable, mid-range | Expensive premium prices |
| Warranties | Good | Industry-leading |
| Installation | Regional, DIY | National network |
| Reviews | Mixed | Mostly positive |
Overview of Feldco Windows
Feldco is a family-owned business located in Illinois that has specialized in replacement windows and doors since 1946. They offer a selection of vinyl and fiberglass windows along with patio doors.
Pros of Feldco Windows:
- Budget-friendly pricing
- Good variety of styles and customization options
- Solid warranty coverage
- Provide a range of energy efficient features
- Made in the USA
Cons of Feldco Windows:
- Smaller selection than some brands
- Mixed reviews on quality of vinyl frames
- Limited presence outside midwest region
Feldco vinyl windows feature dual-pane insulated glass, fusion-welded frames, and weatherstripping.
You can choose from single-hung, double-hung, sliding, casement, awning, and picture window styles.
There are also bay and bow options along with a few specialty shapes like circles.
When it comes to glass options, Feldco offers Low-E and Low-E2 insulated glass along with tinted, tempered, and laminated glass. Their fiberglass line provides increased strength and thermal efficiency.
Most Feldco windows meet ENERGY STAR requirements. They provide U-Factors ranging from 0.27 to 0.30 and SHGC ratings from 0.22 to 0.55 depending on the specific window. Their fiberglass models offer even better energy efficiency.
One standout feature of Feldco windows is that they are made in the USA at their Illinois facility. They offer professional installation in the Chicagoland area or do-it-yourself options for other locations.
Overview of Pella Windows
Founded in 1925, Pella is headquartered in Iowa and offers a wide selection of wood, vinyl, and fiberglass windows and doors. They are known for quality craftsmanship and innovative design features.
Pros of Pella Windows:
- High-performing wood, vinyl, and fiberglass options
- Industry-leading warranties
- Advanced glass technology and energy efficiency
- Top-rated for quality and durability
- National presence and widespread dealer network
Cons of Pella Windows:
- At the higher end of price scale
- Some complaints about confusing options
- Quality can vary by product line
Pella is divided into three main collections – Designer, Architect, and Lifestyle.
The upper-end Designer series features all wood construction while Architect provides fiberglass and vinyl-clad options. The affordable Lifestyle line uses vinyl frames.
Across all the collections, Pella offers hinged, sliding, double-hung, casement, awning, bay, bow, garden, and specialty windows. You can choose from standard or custom sizes. Some of Pella’s most innovative options include the Flexscreen retractable screen, integrated blinds between glass panes, and ventilating windows.
For glass, Pella has upgraded triple-pane options, Low-E coatings that reject solar heat, and mixed glass thicknesses for optimal energy performance. Their high-end wood models achieve U-Factors as low as 0.17.
Key reasons homeowners choose Pella include the Impervia fiberglass durability, smooth operation, enhanced security features, and lower exterior maintenance. However, Pella windows do come at a premium price point.
Feldco And Pella: Factors For Comparison
Now that we’ve provided an overview of each brand, let’s do a detailed comparison of the factors you should consider when deciding between Feldco or Pella:
- Window Frame Materials
Feldco – offers vinyl and fiberglass options.
Their vinyl is heavy-duty, multi-chambered, and fusion welded but some reviewers report quality issues.
The fiberglass is durable and thermally efficient.
Pella – has wood, fiberglass, and vinyl choices across their collections.
Their premium wood is gorgeous and highly insulating. The fiberglass is very rugged and prevents warping.
Vinyl is thick and layered but not as robust as others.
For both brands, fiberglass scores well for strength, stability, and energy efficiency.
Pella’s wood windows are the top choice for luxury aesthetics and performance.
- Style and Customization Choices
Feldco – Provides all the main window styles but not as many specialty options as Pella. You can customize sizes, grids, and glass. More limited on enhanced design features.
Pella – The full gamut of window styles and industry-leading innovations like between-glass blinds. Abundant design choices from traditional to contemporary. Highly customizable.
Pella is the winner if you want maximum options for design, operation, and customization. Feldco still offers flexibility but not as much variety.
- Glass Technology and Energy Efficiency
Feldco – Dual-pane insulated glass comes standard with basic Low-E coatings and argon gas. Meets ENERGY STAR requirements at minimum. Upgrades like Low-E2 and triple pane available.
Pella – Has advanced triple pane options across all collections. Uses mixed glass thicknesses and proprietary Low-E technology. Excels at solar heat control and U-Factors below 0.20.
Pella clearly outperforms when it comes to innovative glass advancements that enhance energy savings. Both meet modern standards but Pella exceeds expectations.
- Aesthetic Quality and Curb Appeal
Feldco – Adequate in terms of appearance but their vinyl and fiberglass won’t have the visual pop of real wood.
Provides grid and exterior color options.
Pella – Their wood windows are gorgeous and add high-end style.
Even the vinyl and fiberglass have a more upscale look.
More possibilities for exterior color, interior finish, and decorative touches.
Those wanting to maximize aesthetics and street appeal should opt for Pella, especially the Designer series. But Feldco options will still look nice.
- Price and Budget
Feldco – Moderately priced in the mid-range for replacement windows. Their vinyl models are affordable options that compete with big box brands. Fiberglass has greater value than Pella.
Pella – At the high end of the scale for upfront purchase price, installation, and overall investment. But customers feel the premium quality justifies costs. The Lifestyle series is reasonably priced.
Feldco wins if keeping project costs down is a top concern. Pella does offer a range of prices but is considered a luxury investment.
- Warranties and Protection
Feldco – Provides solid warranties including lifetime on vinyl frames, 10 years on glass, and 2 years on installation. Coverage reflects the mid-range tier.
Pella – Outstanding lifetime warranties across all product lines including wood components. One of the strongest in the industry. Also have excellent customer service.
For extended peace of mind, Pella is hard to beat with their lifetime coverage, even on wood parts. But Feldco still delivers reassuring warranties.
- Professional Installation
Feldco – Uses own employees for Chicagoland installation.
Carefully trains teams and provides white glove service. DIY elsewhere.
Pella – Contracts an elite network of installation experts across the country. T
eams undergo rigorous certification and continuing education.
For installation, both companies essentially provide professional-grade service but Pella has the edge with controlled national network. Feldco installation more limited.
- Customer Reviews and Satisfaction
Feldco – Earns mixed reviews. Some love the value and service while others report quality and longevity issues, especially with vinyl windows. Rating around 3/5 stars.
Pella – Reviewers mention the high price but feel it’s justified by stellar performance and durability. Of course, some quality concerns exist. Overall rated around 4/5 stars.
User experiences favor Pella but Feldco satisfies many customers in their regions. For Pella, the impression is higher cost but better return on investment.
Feldco And Pella Window Costs
Exact window costs vary based on the specifics of your project but we can provide estimates on average price differences:
- Entry-level vinyl – Feldco is $350 to $550 per window; Pella Lifestyle $400 to $700
- Mid-range fiberglass – Feldco is $700 to $900 per window; Pella Architect Series $800 to $1,100
- Premium wood – Pella Designer series averages $1,200 to $1,800 per window
As you move up in materials, energy efficiency, and features, Pella windows become more expensive than Feldco. The gap grows from around $100 up to $500 or more per opening.
Of course, final installed costs also factor in things like customization, window size, installation fees, and current promotions. But in general, Feldco offers cost savings over comparable Pella products.
Feldco Or Pella: Which Is The Better Choice?
Based on this comprehensive comparison, here are some simple guidelines for choosing between Feldco and Pella:
- If you prioritize budget value, go with Feldco
- For the best quality and performance, choose Pella
- Seek maximum longevity with Pella wood windows
- Those wanting advanced technology prefer Pella
- Regional customers in the Midwest favor Feldco
- Homeowners wanting national reputation select Pella
- Need top-notch installation? Pick Pella
- Seeking green energy efficiency? Pella excels
For many homeowners, the Pella brand offers the very best in terms of features, technology, aesthetics, quality, and long-term durability.
If you want great windows and service with premium benefits, Pella is an excellent investment despite the higher upfront costs.
However, Feldco windows provide appealing options at lower price points. For budget-minded customers focused on value, Feldco can meet your essential needs and satisfy well enough. Their mid-grade fiberglass models strike a nice balance.
Ultimately, conduct your own thorough evaluation of what you need from new windows, and what you can afford or want to spend. This will point you towards the ideal brand between Feldco and Pella for replacing the windows in your home.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Still need help deciding between Feldco or Pella for your replacement window project? Here are answers to some of the most common questions homeowners have:
Feldco windows are decent mid-grade quality, especially their fiberglass and premium vinyl lines. However, some product lines get mixed reviews on longevity and performance compared to leading national brands. They offer good value at lower prices but are not the best windows available.
Some other window brands comparable to Pella in terms of quality are Marvin, Andersen, Jeld-Wen, Milgard, and Simonton. Pella tends to surpass most in technology, performance testing, and warranties. But these alternatives can also provide top-tier windows when installed properly.
Pella, Marvin, and Milgard are a few of the most top-rated national window brands based on reviews and surveys. They excel in product quality, technology, selection, warranties, and service. Of course, every manufacturer will have some unhappy customers, but these three stand out.
In addition to Pella, Marvin, and Milgard, some other best replacement window companies include Andersen, Simonton, Jeld-Wen, and KOHLER. Key traits are quality materials, expert installation, innovative features, energy efficiency, solid warranties, and good value.
The Bottom Line
Choosing new replacement windows for your home is an important, long-term decision. Carefully weigh the pros and cons of trusted brands like Feldco and Pella. For overall quality and performance, Pella is hard to beat but comes at a cost.
For budget value, Feldco offers solid mid-range options, especially their fiberglass line.
Whichever direction you go, be sure to get professional installation and maintenance to maximize the lifespan of your investment. And invest in performance-enhancing features like multi-pane glass, effective weatherstripping, and protective coatings.
This will ensure your new windows keep saving on energy bills for years while enhancing the comfort and beauty of your home.