ReliaBilt 3900 Vs. Pella 250 Series Windows: Which Is Better?

If you’re in the market for new windows, you may be trying to decide between ReliaBilt 3900 and Pella 250 series. Both are quality vinyl window lines from reputable manufacturers, but there are some differences to consider.

This comprehensive guide will compare the two brands and highlight the pros and cons of each to help you make an informed decision.

A Brief Comparison Table

Feature	ReliaBilt 3900	Pella 250 Series
Cost	$180 – $300 per window	$350 – $550 per window
Manufacturer	Unknown (likely PlyGem, Atrium, JeldWen for Lowe’s)	Pella
Frame Material	Multi-chamber PVC vinyl	Multi-chamber PVC vinyl
Glass	Triple pane insulated glass	Double or triple pane insulated glass
Energy Efficiency	Good	Very good
Warranty	Limited lifetime	Limited lifetime
Brand Reputation	Budget-friendly	Leading premium brand
Customization Options	Limited	Extensive
Both Sashes Operable	No	Yes
Easy Cleaning	Tilt-in sashes	Tilt-in sashes
Installation	DIY friendly	More complex
Overall Value	Excellent for the price	Excellent if budget allows

ReliaBilt 3900 Windows Overview

ReliaBilt windows are a house brand manufactured exclusively for Lowe’s home improvement stores. They offer vinyl windows in a variety of styles including single-hung, double-hung, sliding, casement, awning, and more.

The 3900 series is ReliaBilt’s highest quality vinyl window line. Key features include:

• Multi-chambered vinyl frame and sashes for insulation
• Fusion-welded corners for added strength
• 1″ triple pane insulated glass unit
• Both sashes tilt in for easy cleaning
• Constant force balance system
• Locking hardware with hidden tilt latches
• Composite reinforcement for stability
• Limited lifetime warranty

So who makes ReliaBilt 3900 windows?

While Lowe’s doesn’t disclose the manufacturer, it’s believed that ReliaBilt windows are made by various third party brands such as PlyGem, Atrium, and Jeld-Wen. The 3900 series are good quality vinyl windows constructed with sturdy components.

Pros of ReliaBilt 3900 Windows:

• Very affordable pricing from a big box store brand
• Good thermal performance from triple pane glass
• Tilt-in sashes make cleaning easy
• Limited lifetime warranty provides peace of mind
• Variety of styles to choose from
• Good for replacing windows on a budget

Potential Cons:

• Not as customizable as other brands
• Limited lifetime warranty not as long as some brands
• No brand name recognition

So while ReliaBilt isn’t the most premium window around, it offers an excellent value as far as components and performance for the money. The 3900 series competes well with mid-tier vinyl replacement windows.

Pella 250 Series Windows Overview

Pella is a leading upscale window and door manufacturer that offers both wood and vinyl product lines. The Pella 250 series is their mid-range vinyl window designed for the replacement market.

Key features of the Pella 250 series include:

• Multi-chambered vinyl frame and sashes
• Insulated glass options from double pane to triple pane
• Both sashes operate for ventilation
• Constant force balance system
• Decorative grooved exterior frame
• Fold-away crank handle on casements
• Limited lifetime warranty

Pella 250 series windows are manufactured in Pella’s own production facilities to rigorous quality standards.

They are backed by the strong Pella brand name, which is a mark of craftsmanship and performance.

Pros of Pella 250 Series Windows:

• Built by a leading window company with excellent reputation
• Very good thermal efficiency with triple pane glass
• Both sashes open for improved ventilation
• Casement windows have fold-away handle
• Attractive style fits many home designs
• Robust limited lifetime warranty
• Wide range of customization options

Potential Cons:

• More expensive than builder-grade vinyl windows
• Not as high-end as Pella’s wood or fiberglass lines
• Installation can be more complex than basic windows

While costlier than economy vinyl windows, the Pella 250 series offers a quality engineered window with attractive aesthetics and very good performance. They are backed by a trusted brand and offer many custom options.

Key Differences Between ReliaBilt 3900 And Pella 250 Series Windows

So how do ReliaBilt 3900 and Pella 250 series windows compare overall? Here’s a quick rundown of similarities and differences:

Similarities:

• Both vinyl new construction and replacement windows
• Offer single-hung, double-hung, sliding, casement, and more
• Have fiberglass reinforcement for stability
• Include multi-chambered frame and sashes
• Provide triple pane insulated glass
• Feature tilt-in sashes for cleaning
• Have constant force balance system
• Backed by limited lifetime warranties

Key Differences:

• Cost – ReliaBilt is significantly less expensive
• Brand reputation – Pella is a leading window brand
• Custom options – Pella offers far more choices for customization
• Warranty – Pella’s limited lifetime warranty is stronger
• Performance – Pella offers better thermal efficiency
• Styles – Pella has more window styles and finishes

While the ReliaBilt 3900 series stacks up fairly evenly with the Pella 250 series in terms of quality and features, Pella windows do come out ahead in most regards. You can expect thicker, sturdier vinyl frames, higher precision in manufacturing, advanced glass coatings, and more window style choices from Pella.

That said, ReliaBilt 3900 windows are a terrific value if you want an affordable vinyl window with good thermal performance from a reliable big box store brand. Just don’t expect the fit, finish, and decor options of a high-end window like Pella.

Window Prices

One of the biggest factors for most homeowners is cost and budget. Here are some averages for pricing on ReliaBilt vs Pella vinyl windows:

• Basic ReliaBilt 3900 double hung window: $180 – $300
• Basic Pella 250 Series double hung window: $350 – $550

Pella 250 series windows generally cost between 1.5 to 2 times more than comparable ReliaBilt options. The price difference is due to the Pella brand name, higher material standards, more precision manufacturing, and additional features.

However, both offer good value at their respective price points – ReliaBilt for maximum affordability and Pella if budget allows for a premium vinyl window.

Keep in mind that window costs can vary significantly by size, glass package, custom grids, installation requirements, labor, and your geographic location. Be sure to get an itemized estimate tailored to your specific project.

Should I Choose Reliabilt Or Pella?

So which of these quality vinyl window lines is better for you? Here are a few final recommendations based on common homeowner priorities:

• If your budget is limited, ReliaBilt 3900 windows provide an excellent value and good performance for the money.
• If you want premium quality and customization, Pella 250 series windows are the better choice.
• For energy efficiency, Pella offers additional triple pane options and advanced glass coatings.
• If you prioritize warranties, go with Pella 250 series for the stronger coverage.
• For a simple DIY project, ReliaBilt installs more easily into existing openings.
• If you want top to bottom ventilation, only Pella 250 models have both sashes that open.

As you can see, there’s no universally “better” option since it depends on your goals, budget, and needs. Evaluate ReliaBilt and Pella windows in terms of upfront cost, long-term performance, and overall value to make the right decision for your home.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

The Bottom Line

When weighing ReliaBilt and Pella vinyl windows, you can feel confident both are good products backed by reputable brands. Pella offers the higher end windows with more customization and robust performance, while ReliaBilt provides an affordable alternative with appealing features.

Carefully compare the pros, cons, costs, and warranties to determine the right brand for your home improvement goals. With either choice, you can enjoy quality materials, improved energy efficiency, and an enhanced look for years to come.