Sierra Pacific Windows Vs. Andersen Windows: Key Differences

When it comes to choosing new windows for your home, Sierra Pacific and Andersen are two popular brands that often end up on homeowners’ shortlists.

But how do you decide which one is right for your home and budget?

This in-depth guide examines the pros, cons, key features, prices, and other important differences between Sierra Pacific and Andersen windows to help you make an informed decision.

A Brief comparison Table

Features	Sierra Pacific	Andersen
Frame Materials	Vinyl, wood, aluminum, fiberglass composite	Fibrex composite, vinyl, wood, aluminum-clad wood
Styles Offered	Double-hung, casement, sliding, custom shapes	Double-hung, casement, awnings, bays, specialty historic styles
Energy Efficiency	Very good, meet Energy Star requirements	Excellent, meet Energy Star requirements
Warranty	Limited lifetime on frame and 10 years on glass	Limited lifetime on frame, 20 years on glass
Prices	Vinyl models $350-$850	Fibrex models $700-$1500, wood $1000-$3000
Manufacturing Location	California, USA	Minnesota, USA
Distribution Method	Sold through dealers	Sold through Andersen dealers
Frame Durability	Very durable premium vinyl and composites	Excellent, Fibrex material is highly impact resistant
Appearance Options	Many colors and wood laminates	More exterior design options like stainable Fibrex
Noise Reduction	Standard triple-pane options	Acoustic glass package options

Overview of Sierra Pacific Windows

Sierra Pacific is a leading U.S. manufacturer of high-quality windows and doors located in Red Bluff, California.

The company has over 70 years of experience creating custom windows and doors for homes and businesses across the country.

Sierra Pacific offers a wide selection of vinyl, aluminum, wood, and glass windows and patio doors in hundreds of sizes, styles, colors, and design options.

Their vinyl-framed windows are some of the most popular and affordable options, featuring premium vinyl construction and advanced glass packages for superior insulation.

Some key things to know about Sierra Pacific windows:

• Owned by PGT Innovations, a large U.S. impact-resistant window and door manufacturer
• Specializes in made-to-order custom windows with short lead times
• Known for very good energy efficiency, durability, and weather-tightness
• Backed by a transferable limited lifetime warranty
• Prices range from moderate to high compared to competitors

Sierra Pacific windows are sold through a network of authorized dealers across the U.S. While not considered a high-end prestige brand, they offer very good quality and performance for the price.

The company focuses on exceptional customer service and making the ordering and installation process simple for homeowners.

Overview of Andersen Windows

Andersen Corporation is one of the oldest and largest window manufacturers in America.

Headquartered in Bayport, Minnesota, Andersen has over 115 years of experience making innovative windows and doors.

Andersen is known for itsFibrex composite windows made from a proprietary material blending reclaimed wood fiber and thermoplastics.

But they offer many different lines including wood, vinyl, aluminum clad, composite and Fibrex. Their products are backed by a limited lifetime warranty.

Here are some key highlights of Andersen windows:

• Massive selection of window styles, from double-hungs to awnings, casements to bays
• Fibrex material provides strength, stability and energy efficiency
• Composite frame eliminates warping, swelling, and rotting
• Variety of exterior design options from traditional to modern
• Wind and impact-resistant models meet coastal building codes
• Advanced glass packages provide sound dampening
• Prices range from moderate to very high-end luxury

Andersen sells their windows through their network of dealers. While pricier than some brands, they offer excellent quality with many customization options. Andersen is regarded as a leader in window innovation and performance.

Factors To Compare Sierra Pacific And Andersen Windows

So when weighing Sierra Pacific and Andersen windows, what are the most important factors and differences to consider?

Window Materials

One of the biggest differences is window frame materials. Sierra Pacific offers vinyl, aluminum, wood, and fiberglass composite frames. Andersen’s main offerings are Fibrex composite, vinyl, wood, and aluminum clad wood.

• Vinyl is low maintenance, energy efficient and cost-effective. Sierra Pacific’s premium vinyl formula has excellent durability and insulation. Andersen’s vinyl windows also perform very well.
• Composite like Andersen’s Fibrex is made from reclaimed wood and vinyl. This ensures strength while resisting rotting, warping and corrosion. Sierra Pacific’s fiberglass material provides similar benefits.
• Wood is beautiful and can be stained, but requires more maintenance. Andersen is known for its attractive wood windows.
• Aluminum-clad offers low-maintenance on the exterior and wood on the interior for a classic style. Popular with Andersen.

For many homeowners, vinyl is the ideal balance of durability, energy-efficiency and cost-effectiveness. But personal style preferences may dictate wood or other materials.

Styles and Configurations

Both Sierra Pacific and Andersen offer an extensive selection of operating styles:

• Double-hung – Traditional style with two sashes that slide up and down vertically
• Casement – Side-hinged windows that open outward like doors
• Awning – Top-hinged windows that open outward from the bottom
• Gliding – Horizontal sliding windows with two sashes
• Specialty – Custom shapes like arches, curves, angles or transoms

Styles like awnings and casements provide wider unobstructed views when open compared to double-hungs.

But double-hungs allow for better ventilation.

You’ll also find fixed picture windows, sliding and French patio doors, sidelites, transoms, and architectural shape designs. Andersen likely offers more historic divided lite patterns and specialty shapes.

But Sierra Pacific has extensive capabilities to create custom windows and match your home’s aesthetics.

Energy Efficiency

With rising energy costs, thermal performance is a priority for any replacement window. Sierra Pacific and Andersen both offer advanced glass packages and weather-stripping to provide excellent insulation, including:

• Low-E coatings that reduce solar heat gain and UV rays
• Argon gas filled insulated glass units
• Triple pane options for maximum efficiency
• Thermal breaks that inhibit heat transfer through the frame
• Weatherstripping to seal out drafts and water

Look for the NFRC (National Fenestration Rating Council) ratings to compare U-factors, Solar Heat Gain Coefficients (SHGC), Visible Transmittance (VT) and other performance metrics. The lower the U-factor, the better the insulation. Low SHGC ratings reduce summer solar heat. High VT maintains daylighting.

Both brands offer windows meeting Energy Star requirements for all U.S. climate zones. Request an energy audit to determine the optimal glass package and costs/benefits for your home.

Durability

You want windows able to withstand decades of wear from weather, impacts, and more.

Andersen has an excellent reputation for product quality and durability.

Their Fibrex composite frames are highly impact-resistant and stable.

Sierra Pacific also uses premium-grade vinyl, composite, and other materials selected for their strength, stability and durability.

Their windows meet stringent Florida hurricane codes for coastal resilience.

Look for visible reinforcement at corners and quality hardware. Be sure to follow the proper cleaning and maintenance instructions from the manufacturer. With proper care, both Andersen and Sierra Pacific windows will provide lasting performance and beauty.

Warranties

It’s important to understand what’s covered should any defects arise down the road.

The Sierra Pacific limited lifetime warranty covers defects in materials and workmanship in the frame and glass unit as long as you own the home. Glass breakage from natural causes is also included for 10 years.

Andersen backs their windows with one of the best warranties in the industry – a limited lifetime warranty on most window components including the Fibrex frame, hardware, and more. Glass coverage extends 20 years.

Review the detailed warranty terms for exclusions and limitations. You want reassurance that either brand will stand behind their windows and handle any warranty issues promptly.

Appearance

Andersen offers one of the broadest selections of interior and exterior design options to match any architectural style. Choose from dozens of wood species, exterior colors, hardware finishes and divided lite patterns. Fibrex composite windows can be painted or stained.

Sierra Pacific windows also come in a wide range of interior wood laminates, exterior colors and options for grids. Their dealers provide color-matched samples to coordinate with your home’s existing trim.

Think about how the windows will enhance your home’s curb appeal while fitting your interior decor. Andersen likely provides more historic profiles while Sierra Pacific excels at matching modern or contemporary aesthetics.

Pricing

Window pricing depends on the model line, size, glass packages, custom upgrades and more. Expect to pay:

• Sierra Pacific: Vinyl windows range from $350 – $850. Wood, aluminum and fiberglass cost $800 – $1250+. Advanced glass upgrades add $100 – $600 per window.
• Andersen: Vinyl windows start around $500 – $900. Fibrex starts at $700 – $1,500. Wood windows range from $1,000 – $3,000+. Specialty glass can add $250 – $1,000 per window.

Andersen windows are typically pricier than Sierra Pacific. But both offer very good value for the quality and features. Get an itemized quote for an accurate comparison for your specific project.

Professional installation will add $100 – $350 per window depending on accessibility. Many times special discounts or financing incentives can offset some of the initial investment.

Availability

Sierra Pacific windows are sold factory-direct through authorized dealers located across much of the U.S. They focus on quick turnaround and short lead times.

Andersen windows are available through one of the industry’s largest networks of contractors and lumberyards, with an extensive distribution system across North America and beyond.

Verify whether each brand services your region before making a decision. Andersen likely has more broad availability, but Sierra Pacific ships windows anywhere in the continental U.S.

Sierra Pacific And Andersen Window Comparisons

Here’s a closer look at how some of Sierra Pacific’s and Andersen’s most popular vinyl window product lines stack up:

Double-Hung Windows:

• Sierra Pacific – Select Double Hung. Prices start at $350. Available in custom sizes up to 5 feet wide. DP rating of 50. Several glass packages offering U-Factors down to 0.27. Transferable Limited Lifetime Warranty.
• Andersen – 200 Series Narroline double-hung. Prices start at $500. Sizes up to 4 feet wide. DP rating of 50. U-Factors as low as 0.25. 20-year glass coverage and Limited Lifetime Warranty on frame.

The 200 Series Narroline offers broader size options. The Select Double Hung has slightly better thermal performance by a slim margin. Both meet Energy Star requirements and have excellent warranties.

Casement Windows:

• Sierra Pacific – Select Casement. Prices from $500 – $700. Custom sizes up to 3 feet wide. DP 50 rating. Low-E glass with U-factors down to 0.27. Limited Lifetime Warranty.
• Andersen – 400 Series Narroline casement. Prices from $800 – $1,000. Sizes up to 4 feet wide. DP 50 rating. Low-E glass and U-Factors as low as 0.25. Limited Lifetime Warranty on frame and 20 years on glass.

The 400 Series casements have broader sizing, a Fibrex composite frame, and potentially lower U-Factors. But the Select Casements cost at least $200 less per window. Both brands are excellent choices backed by stellar warranties.

Sliding Windows:

• Sierra Pacific – Select Sliding Window. Approx. $500 – $650. Up to 6 foot wide panels. DP 30 rating. Low-E options with U-Factor of 0.30. Limited Lifetime Warranty.
• Andersen – 200 Series Gliding window. Around $700 – $900. Panel widths up to 5 feet. DP grade of 35. U-Factors as low as 0.28. Limited Lifetime Warranty on frame and 20-year glass coverage.

The 200 Series glider offers slightly better performance and warranty terms. But the Select Sliding Window costs around $200 less per window for a very comparable quality vinyl product.

Additional Factors When Choosing Windows

Beyond comparing Sierra Pacific and Andersen, there are a few other tips for selecting the best windows:

• Get references and check reviews of local installers before choosing one to handle your window replacement project.
• Make sure to order windows to the exact measurements of your window openings for a proper fit.
• Consider whether noise reduction is a priority based on your location; specialized acoustic glass can make a difference.
• Look for fiberglass mesh insect screens that are clearer and offer better outward visibility.
• Evaluate whether specialty glass like tinted, decorative, or privacy options makes sense for your needs.
• Make sure windows meet local building codes for egress in bedrooms and fire escape requirements.
• Determine if you want your windows to tilt in or be removable for easy cleaning access.
• Child safety features like window opening limiters are crucial if you have young children.

Taking the time to carefully compare all these factors will help you pick new windows tailored to your home that you’ll enjoy for decades.

Sierra Pacific Or Andersen Windows: Which Is Better?

Based on this comprehensive comparison, Andersen windows edge out Sierra Pacific when it comes to reputation, innovations, warranties, historic styles and overall quality and performance.

But Sierra Pacific offers comparable windows often at a lower cost, with excellent warranties and great customization.

Here’s a quick recap of some of the key differences:

• Materials – Andersen offers more composite Fibrex. Sierra Pacific has wider vinyl selection.
• Styles – Andersen has more historic divided lite options. Sierra Pacific excels at modern, contemporary.
• Energy Efficiency – Comparable on measurements like U-factor and SHGC ratings.
• Durability – Excellent from both brands.
• Warranties – Both have limited lifetime warranties. Andersen has longer glass coverage.
• Appearance – Andersen provides more exterior design and finish options.
• Price – Sierra Pacific vinyl windows cost $100 – $300 less on average.
• Availability – Andersen has more broad distribution. But Sierra Pacific ships factory direct anywhere.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

Questions homeowners often ask about Sierra Pacific and Andersen:

What windows are as good as Andersen?

Sierra Pacific windows provide nearly equivalent quality and performance to Andersen at lower prices. Milgard and Pella are also top Andersen competitors.

How much does a Sierra Pacific window cost?

Sierra Pacific vinyl windows range from about $350 – $850 with most models $500 – $700. Wood or aluminum clad upgrades can be $800 – $1,200. Advanced glass adds $100 – $600 per window.

Which window company is the best?

Andersen and Pella are generally considered the leading window brands overall. But Milgard, JELD-WEN, Sierra Pacific, and several others also make outstanding windows.

Who owns Sierra Pacific window?

Sierra Pacific was acquired by PGT Innovations in 2018. Previously, it was family owned and operated for over 70 years in California.

Closing Remarks

For homeowners on stricter budgets looking for very good quality vinyl windows costing $200 to $500 less per window, Sierra Pacific is an outstanding choice. Their warranties, energy efficiency ratings, and custom options are superb.

But for those who want the prestige and reputation of the Andersen brand, don’t mind paying a 10-20% premium, and appreciate the unsurpassed selection of finishes and architectural styles, Andersen windows are hard to beat. Their Fibrex composite frames also introduce unique benefits.

Ultimately, consult with local window contractors about these two brands, browse their catalogs and window style options, and make an informed decision based on your budget, tastes and needs. Both Andersen and Sierra Pacific make fantastic windows that will upgrade your home for years to come.