When it comes time to replace the windows in your home, you want to make sure you choose the best option for your needs and budget. Two popular brands to consider are Interstate windows and Andersen windows.
Both companies have been manufacturing windows for decades and offer a range of products. Keep reading to learn the key differences between Interstate and Andersen, the pros and cons of each, and which may be the better choice for your home renovation project.
A Brief Comparison Table
| Comparison | Interstate Windows | Andersen Windows |
| Frame Materials | Vinyl | Fibrex composite, vinyl, wood, aluminum-clad wood |
| Glass Technology | Basic insulating glass, Cardinal LoE3-366 coating | High-performance Low-E4 SmartSun glass |
| Weatherization | Good weatherstripping, multi-chamber frames | Industry-leading engineering and weatherproofing |
| Window Operation | Smooth and easy to open/close | Beefy construction makes operation slightly harder |
| Aesthetics | Attractive, blend in well | Greater customization and style options |
| Price | $200 – $300 per window installed | $600 – $2000+ per window installed |
| Availability | Focus in U.S. Midwest region | Nationwide distribution |
| Warranties | Limited lifetime warranty | 10-20 year warranties, up to 50 years on some parts |
Overview of Interstate Windows
Founded in 1975, Interstate Window & Door Co. manufactures vinyl replacement windows and patio doors. Their headquarters is located in Toledo, Ohio and they have showrooms throughout the midwest.
Interstate is best known for their affordable vinyl window lines like the Essential Series and Premium Series. Some key features of Interstate Windows include:
- Variety of vinyl window styles including single-hung, double-hung, sliding, casement, awning, bay, bow, garden, and more
- Several lines to choose from: Essential, Premium, Select, Elite
- vinyl frame with multi-chamber construction
- EnergyGuard glass packages with Low-E coatings, argon gas, and insulating glass options
- Cardinal LoE-366 coating that provides excellent UV protection
- Finished interior color options in white or beige
- Transferable Limited Lifetime Warranty
- Made in the U.S.A.
Overall, Interstate vinyl windows are a quality mid-range option known for better value than many competing brands. They offer good insulation, durability, and customization possibilities.
Overview of Andersen Windows
Headquartered in Minnesota, Andersen Corporation has been manufacturing windows since 1903. They are best known for their Fibrex composite windows made from a proprietary blend of vinyl and wood fibers. Some key features of Andersen Windows include:
- Large variety of operating styles: single-hung, double-hung, casement, awning, gliding, bay, bow, garden windows, and more
- Different frame materials: Fibrex composite, vinyl, wood, aluminum clad wood
- High-end 400 Series with Fibrex and heavy-duty construction
- 200 Series offers more affordable Fibrex windows
- 100 Series features sturdy vinyl frames and sashes
- Energy efficient glass options like Low-E4® SmartSunTM glass to filter UV rays
- Finishes in a range of interior and exterior color options
- Limited Warranty coverage ranges from 10 years to 20 years
- Made in the U.S.A.
Andersen is known for outstanding quality, innovative engineering, and custom styling possibilities. They are on the higher end for window pricing but deliver excellent performance and longevity.
Key Pros and Cons Comparison of Interstate And Andersen Windows
When deciding between Interstate and Andersen windows for your home, it helps to weigh some of the main pros and cons of each brand.
Interstate Windows Pros:
- More affordable than most Andersen window lines
- Quality vinyl construction that resists warping, sagging, swelling, rotting
- Energy efficient glass packages help improve insulation
- Variety of grid, hardware, and color options to match home décor
- Good warranty coverage
- Local company with good reputation in areas they serve
Interstate Windows Cons:
- Vinyl can become brittle and discolored over time in extreme weather
- Less name brand recognition than a leading manufacturer like Andersen
- More limited distribution area in U.S. midwest/north regions
Andersen Windows Pros:
- Excellent reputation with over 100 years of quality manufacturing
- Innovative Fibrex composite material is extremely durable and low maintenance
- High-end glass options like SmartSun for unbeatable insulation
- Industry-leading engineering for smooth operation and weather-tight performance
- Beautiful aesthetics with many customized options
- Exceptional warranty coverage on many product lines
Andersen Windows Cons:
- Among the most expensive window options on the market
- Certain product lines have quality issues with glass breakage or seal failure
- Composite and wood windows require more maintenance than vinyl
- Limited exterior color choices
As you can see, both Interstate and Andersen offer impressive features and benefits. Keep reading for an in-depth examination of the factors that set these two brands apart.
Major Differences Between Interstate and Andersen
While Interstate and Andersen both manufacture quality windows, there are some noteworthy differences between the two brands:
- Frame Materials
The main difference is the window frame and sash materials used:
- Interstate: Vinyl frame and sashes on all products
- Andersen: Fibrex composite, vinyl, wood, or wood-clad on different window lines
Vinyl is affordable and offers good durability and low maintenance.
However, Andersen’s Fibrex material provides superior strength and resistance to temperature extremes.
Their wood windows offer unparalleled beauty but require regular upkeep.
- Glass Options
Both brands offer high-performance Low-E coated insulating glass with argon gas fill. However, Andersen windows can be upgraded with more advanced glazings like SmartSun glass for ultimate UV protection and efficiency.
- Weatherization
Interstate windows are decently weather-resistant thanks to multi-chambered frames, quality weatherstripping, and insulating glass. But Andersen engineering gives their products the edge for air-tight performance and structural integrity.
- Window Operation
Vinyl Interstate windows are lightweight and easy to operate. Andersen windows have beefier construction so the sashes may be heavier, but engineering makes them open and close smoothly.
- Aesthetics
Interstate windows look nice and blend in well with most homes. Andersen offers far more interior wood trim and exterior color options for a more customized, upscale look.
- Price
There’s no contest here – Interstate windows are much more budget-friendly than Andersen. Even entry-level Andersen 100 Series windows cost significantly more than most Interstate models.
- Availability
While Andersen windows can be purchased nationwide, Interstate has limited distribution focused in the Midwestern region. This makes them far more accessible for local home improvement projects.
- Warranties
Interstate provides a solid transferable Limited Lifetime Warranty on most vinyl windows. Andersen warranties range from 10 years to 20 years (even longer on some parts) giving their products an edge here.
So in summary, the major differences come down to construction materials, glass technology, overall performance, aesthetics, cost, and warranty coverage. Andersen is the leader in many respects, while Interstate offers a more affordable vinyl alternative.
Interstate Or Andersen Window Lines Head-to-Head Comparisons
Now let’s see how specific Interstate series stack up against comparable Andersen window collections:
- Interstate Essential Series vs. Andersen 100 Series
The Essential Series is Interstate’s most affordable vinyl window line while the 100 Series represents Andersen’s low-cost vinyl windows.
While both window lines utilize quality vinyl frames, the 100 Series offers thicker walls and stronger fusion welded corners. The Essential Series has basic insulating glass while the 100 Series can be upgraded to High-Performance Low-E4® glass for better efficiency. Both come with grilles, screens, and hardware options to choose from.
Overall, the Andersen 100 Series provides better construction, weatherproofing, and glass but costs about 2-3 times as much as the Interstate Essential Series.
- Interstate Premium Series vs. Andersen 200 Series
Moving up a step, the Premium Series is Interstate’s mid-range window while the 200 Series signifies Andersen’s mid-level Fibrex windows.
The Premium Series has sturdier vinyl frames, increased insulation, and Cardinal LoE3-366 glass. The 200 Series gives you composite strength and Low-E4® SmartSun glass. Both offer good performance, numerous style choices, and customizable options.
The Andersen 200 Series with Fibrex composite frame and advanced glass technology provides superior quality and durability. But the Interstate Premium Series makes for an impressive, more affordable alternative.
- Interstate Select Series vs. Andersen 400 Series
Finally, we have Interstate’s top-of-the-line Select Series versus Andersen’s premium 400 Series Fibrex windows.
The Select Series gets upgraded vinyl, weatherstripping, hardware, and the best Interstate glass package.
The 400 Series is as good as windows get with heavyweight construction, virtually indestructible Fibrex frames, advanced Low-E4® glass, and unparalleled weather-tight performance.
There’s no comparison here – the Andersen 400 Series is head and shoulders above the Interstate Select Series in every way. But be prepared to pay for the quality as Andersen 400 Series windows cost 5-10 times more!
Key Considerations When Choosing Windows
Now that you see how Interstate and Andersen windows stack up, here are a few pointers for selecting the right brand and models for your home:
- Climate – Consider glass capabilities, structural integrity, and materials best suited for weather and temperatures in your region. Vulnerable areas need Andersen’s best weatherization features.
- Home Style – Pick windows that complement your home’s look and size appropriately. Andersen offers more stylistic options for cottages and historical homes.
- Budget – Andersen windows command premium pricing starting around $600 up to $2,000+ per window! Interstate keeps you under $300 per window installed.
- Efficiency Needs – Old drafty homes benefit most from Andersen window technology while newer construction may get ample comfort and savings from Interstate.
- Installation – Hiring a professional is best for either brand. Self-installing Andersen windows risks compromising their warranties.
- Warranty – If you plan to stay in the home long-term, splurge for Andersen’s 20-year coverage rather than Interstate’s lifetime limited warranty.
Which is Better for Your Home?
When making your final window selection between Andersen and Interstate, consider what factors mean the most for your situation.
Those wanting the absolute best in every category should go with Andersen windows. You’ll pay dearly, but their performance and quality are unmatched.
Andersen is the choice for homes needing uncompromising weatherization and efficiency. Their windows can even add resale value.
Homeowners on a tight budget who still want quality replacement windows can feel confident with Interstate. Offering competitive durability, energy savings, and attractive style at accessible price points, Interstate presents the better overall value.
They make a great choice if your home’s needs are relatively basic.
Ultimately, conducting your own thorough evaluation is advisable before investing in new windows. Carefully examine what performance specs, features, and costs matter for your home.
This helps determine if premium Andersen windows are worth the splurge or if budget-friendly Interstate models make more sense. Once you make your brand selection, work with an experienced local window professional to ensure proper installation for long-lasting enjoyment.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Some brands that offer comparable quality and features to Andersen windows include Pella, Marvin, Milgard, Jeld-Wen, and Kohler. These companies produce premium wood, vinyl, aluminum, and composite windows with similar engineering and technological capabilities.
The Pella Architect, Marvin Signature, and Milgard Ultra product lines truly compare to Andersen’s impressive window offerings. Jeld-Wen and Kohler also make excellent wood and vinyl windows rivaling Andersen’s performance and specifications.
Among homeowners, building experts, and consumer reports Andersen consistently ranks as the #1 best window manufacturer. Other top-tier window brands include Pella, Marvin, and Milgard. Interstate also rates well as a mid-range vinyl window company.
For exceptional durability, look for window frames constructed from composite, fiberglass, or solid wood materials along with laminated glass. Brands like Andersen, Pella, Marvin, and Milgard make some of the strongest, most resilient windows for homes. Their premium model windows can easily last 50+ years!
The Bottom Line
Replacing your home’s windows with a quality product like Interstate or Andersen windows is sure to increase curb appeal, comfort, and energy efficiency.
While Andersen takes the prize for premium design and performance, Interstate Windows offer impressive quality at accessible price points for most homeowners’ needs and budgets.
As long as you choose the right window style for your climate and home aesthetics, either brand presents a solid investment that will serve your family well for decades to come.