Hanson Vs. Wallside Windows: A Detailed Comparison

When it comes time to replace the windows in your home, you want to make sure you choose a high-quality product that will stand the test of time. Two popular brands to consider are Hanson and Wallside windows.

But which one is the better option for you?

In this comprehensive guide, we’ll compare the pros and cons of Hanson and Wallside windows to help you make an informed decision. We’ll look at factors like durability, energy efficiency, cost, warranties, styles, and more.

Whether you’re concerned about curb appeal, functionality, or finding the best value, this guide has you covered.

A Brief Comparison Table

Feature	Hanson Windows	Wallside Windows
Manufacturing Location	USA	Ohio, USA
Frame Materials	Vinyl, aluminum-clad wood	Vinyl, composite
Product Lines	Economy, Architectural, Premium	T-SERIES Vinyl, R-SERIES Composite
ENERGY STAR Compliant	Most models	Most models
Warranty	Lifetime limited (vinyl) <br> 20-year limited (wood)	Lifetime limited (vinyl) <br> 10-year limited (composite)
Window Styles	Single-hung, double-hung, sliding, casement, awning, specialty	All standard styles plus bays, bows, etc.
Customization Options	Medium	High
Smart Home Integration	None	Basic features available
Cost	$$$	$$$$
Availability	Throughout U.S.	Midwest & Northeast only
Installation	Independent dealers	Wallside employees

Overview of Hanson Windows

Hanson windows are made by Fortune Brands Home & Security, Inc. and are sold through lumberyards and home improvement stores across the U.S.

Hanson first started making windows back in 1955 under the name PlyGem. Today, they offer a range of vinyl, aluminum-clad, wood, and fiberglass window options.

Some key things to know about Hanson windows:

• Manufacturing: Hanson windows are made in the U.S. with domestic and imported components. Their vinyl windows are produced at plants in North Carolina, Pennsylvania, and Minnesota.
• Vinyl vs Aluminum: Hanson offers both vinyl and aluminum-clad wood windows. The vinyl is low-maintenance while the aluminum offers greater durability.
• Efficiency: Most Hanson windows meet ENERGY STAR® requirements for energy efficiency in the U.S. South and North/Central zones. Higher performing triple pane glass is also available.
• Styles: Available in single-hung, double-hung, sliding, casement, awning, and specialty shapes. Numerous grid options allow you to match your home’s style.
• Warranty: Hanson vinyl windows have a limited lifetime warranty. Aluminum-clad wood windows have a 20-year limited warranty.
• Cost: Hanson windows are competitively priced, offering a good value. Exact pricing depends on the specific product line, features, and dealer.

Now let’s take a closer look at the pros and cons of choosing Hanson windows for your next window replacement project.

The Pros of Choosing Hanson Windows

There are many reasons why Hanson windows are a popular choice across the U.S. Here are some of the top benefits they offer:

• Durability

Hanson windows are designed to be long-lasting and low-maintenance. The vinyl frames are highly impact-resistant and won’t rot, warp, crack, or peel. Aluminum-clad wood windows also offer durability from moisture and insect damage. With proper care, Hanson windows can enhance your home for decades.

• Energy Efficient

Most Hanson windows meet or exceed ENERGY STAR requirements for energy efficiency, especially when upgraded Low-E glass is added. This can help reduce your energy bills through improved insulation. Their double-hung windows also have sash channels that create a tight seal.

• Good Value

For the features and quality they offer, Hanson windows are very competitively priced. The brand offers excellent value for money compared to other window manufacturers. You get durability and efficiency at a reasonable price point.

• Variety of Styles

Hanson offers all the most popular window styles and operation types. This makes it easy to find an option that suits your home’s design and ventilation needs. You can match existing architectural details or create a custom look.

• Strong Warranties

The warranties offered by Hanson are strong compared to industry averages. Vinyl windows are backed by a limited lifetime warranty while aluminum-clad wood windows have a 20-year limited warranty. This provides peace of mind that your investment is protected.

• Reputation & Experience

With over 60 years manufacturing experience, Hanson is an established and reputable window brand. They have perfected their vinyl formula and manufacturing processes over decades. This results in a quality, consistent product homeowners can trust.

The Potential Drawbacks of Hanson Windows

While Hanson offers an impressive overall package, there are a few potential downsides to consider:

• Availability

Hanson windows may not be available in all areas, as dealers are limited to specific regions. This can make purchasing and servicing them more difficult if you don’t live near an authorized dealer.

• No Nationwide Lifetime Warranty

The lifetime warranty only applies to Hanson’s Economy-Series vinyl windows when purchased and installed within the U.S. South region. In other regions, the warranty periods are shorter.

• Mixed Window Quality

Hanson has several different product lines ranging from contractor-grade to high-end custom windows. Make sure you compare warranties and features, as quality can vary. The lowest end models may not last as long.

• High Replacement Part Costs

Some homeowners report that replacement parts for Hanson windows can be expensive. However, these costs will depend on your specific window models.

• Limited Smart Home Integration

Hanson doesn’t currently offer smart window options if high-tech connectivity and operation are important in your replacement windows.

• Not as Customizable

While Hanson windows come in a variety of stock sizes, their customization and specialty shape options are more limited than some competitor brands. Unique home designs may require a more customizable solution.

Now that we’ve explored Hanson windows in-depth, let’s take a look at how Wallside windows compare.

Overview of Wallside Windows

Wallside windows are a product of Wallside Home Improvements based out of Youngstown, Ohio. The company manufactures replacement windows for homeowners across northern U.S. states like Ohio, Michigan, Indiana, Pennsylvania, and New York.

Some quick facts about Wallside:

• Manufacturing: Wallside windows are made at the company’s factory in Ohio from both foreign and domestic materials.
• Vinyl & Composite: Wallside offers both vinyl and composite windows. The composite is resistant to heat and cold.
• Efficiency: Most Wallside windows meet or exceed ENERGY STAR Version 6.0 efficiency standards. Advanced Low-E options are also available.
• Styles: Wallside manufactures single-hung, double-hung, casement, awning, sliding, bay, bow, garden, and specialty windows.
• Warranty: Vinyl windows have a Limited Lifetime Warranty. Composite windows have a 10-year Limited Warranty.
• Cost: Wallside windows are affordably priced for the quality and performance provided. Quotes depend on products selected.

Now let’s go over the key benefits and drawbacks of choosing Wallside for your next window installation or replacement project.

The Pros of Choosing Wallside Windows

Here are some of the reasons Wallside windows are worth considering for your home:

• Energy Efficient

Meeting strict ENERGY STAR qualifications, Wallside windows are engineered for energy efficiency. This can help reduce energy bills through improved insulation. Advanced LoĒ3 glass further reduces heat loss.

• Durable & Long-lasting

Both the vinyl and composite Wallside window frames are built to last. Their UV-resistant vinyl formula minimizes fading and warping. The composite material provides extreme impact resistance.

• Variety of Styles

Wallside offers all the most popular window styles and types. Designs like double-hung, sliding, casement, and bay windows are all available to match your needs.

• Customization Options

Wallside windows can be customized with unique grid patterns, glass types, hardware finishes, extensions, and more. This allows you to create a personalized look.

• Constant Innovation

Wallside continually innovates with the latest window technology like advanced LoĒ3 glass, warm edge spacers, and insulation enhancements. This results in an up-to-date product.

• Professional Installation

Wallside windows are installed by the company’s own employees, not subcontractors. This allows them to deliver professional, consistent installation quality.

• Strong Warranties

Backed by Limited Lifetime and 10-year Limited Warranties, Wallside offers strong coverage against defects. This provides peace of mind with your investment.

The Potential Drawbacks of Wallside Windows

While Wallside offers many advantages, there are a few potential downsides to consider as well:

• Regional Availability

Wallside windows are only available in the Upper Midwest and Northeastern U.S. Not an option if you live outside this area.

• Shorter Wood Window Warranty

The warranty on Wallside’s wood windows is only 5 years, which is less coverage than many competitor wood window warranties.

• Mixed Reviews

While many homeowners are satisfied with Wallside, they do have some mixed reviews regarding communication, installation, and service response times.

• Higher Upfront Cost

Wallside windows tend to cost more upfront compared to basic contractor-grade windows from big box stores. However, lower long-term energy costs often offset this.

• Limited Smart Home Features

Wallside has introduced some smart window options, but high-tech control capabilities are still limited compared to other brands.

• No Nationwide Warranty

The Limited Lifetime Warranty only applies to owners in the Upper Midwest and Northeastern states. Other regions have shorter warranty periods.

Now that we’ve explored both brands in-depth, let’s compare them head-to-head.

Hanson And Wallside Window Comparison

Now that you know the pros, cons, features, and differences of both brands, let’s directly compare Hanson and Wallside windows:

Efficiency

• Both meet or exceed ENERGY STAR qualifications and offer high-performance Low-E glass options. Wallside windows may have a slight efficiency advantage.

Durability

• Hanson and Wallside both make long-lasting and low-maintenance vinyl windows. Wallside’s composite material is extremely impact-resistant.

Warranties

• Hanson offers a stronger lifetime limited warranty on vinyl windows while Wallside has a longer 10-year warranty for composites. Both provide good coverage.

Styles & Customization

• Both brands offer a wide selection of standard window styles and operations. Wallside provides more customization of grids, glass, finishes, etc.

Smart Home Features

• Hanson currently has no smart window options while Wallside offers some basic smart home connectivity and control.

Cost

• Hanson vinyl windows are generally more affordable than Wallside, especially contractor-grade options. But Wallside provides greater value through efficiency and customization.

Availability

• Hanson has broader U.S. availability whereas Wallside only services the Upper Midwest and Northeast regions.

Quality & Satisfaction

• Both companies have built a largely positive reputation over decades in business. Wallside has more mixed reviews but delivers quality installs.

Installation

• Hanson relies on independent dealers for install while Wallside uses their own employees for a more consistent experience.

So in summary, while both are great brands, Wallside windows tend to offer higher efficiency, more customization, and newer smart features compared to Hanson. However, Hanson provides quality, affordability, and broader availability.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The Bottom Line

When replacing the windows on your home, you can feel confident choosing either trusted brand – Hanson or Wallside. Both offer energy efficient, durable, and fairly affordable products that will provide lasting performance for years to come.

For broad national availability and competitive pricing on vinyl windows, Hanson is a great option especially if on a tight budget.

But for the highest efficiency, most customization, and latest smart home features, Wallside takes the cake – though only available regionally.

Either way, measure all your windows, research product lines, get quotes from qualified dealers, and make an informed decision. With quality professional installation, your new windows will enhance comfort and enjoyment of your home for decades.