Marvin and Andersen both provide top-of-the-line windows. Marvin pioneered strong Ultrex fiberglass material, while Andersen’s windows use durable Fibrex material. But which is better?
Let’s look at the benefits and differences between the two, go into more detail about the materials they use, and determine which is the best option for you.
Marvin vs Andersen Windows: Material & Product Differences
Both Andersen and Marvin Signature windows are built with wooden frames and aluminum cladding, which provide a classic look to your home. The thin frames require very little maintenance and you can rest easy knowing that your energy efficiency is boosted due to the high-quality seal that they maintain.
The difference comes when you compare Marvin Elevate’s ultra-durable fiberglass and Andersen’s Fibrex. Marvin’s fiberglass is not only stronger than Andersen’s Fibrex, but it also offers more natural light.
Marvins Materials
Marvin Windows are designed for durability and versatility, incorporating a range of materials to suit different preferences and environmental demands:
- Wood – Delivers a timeless look with natural insulating properties, enhancing both style and energy efficiency.
- Aluminum – Provides exceptional strength and longevity while requiring minimal upkeep.
- Ultrex® Fiberglass – A specialized material engineered for superior performance that is eight times stronger than vinyl
Marvin windows are designed to meet or exceed ENERGY STAR® standards, with multiple glass options available to maximize thermal efficiency.
Andersen Materials
Andersen Windows distinguishes itself with its Fibrex® material, designed for both sustainability and high performance:
- Interior Wood Options – A diverse selection of wood choices allows for a customizable aesthetic
- Fibrex® Material – A composite blend of 40% recycled wood fiber and 60% thermoplastic polymer
- Vinyl – A cost-effective option used in Andersen’s budget-friendly 100 Series windows.
As an ENERGY STAR® partner, Andersen is committed to a focus on environmentally responsible manufacturing and energy-efficient product design.
Cost Comparison & Pricing For Marvin and Andersen Windows
In general, the prices of Marvin’s windows and Andersen’s windows are comparable. Both offer high-quality windows for a competitive price.
However, Marvin beats Andersen as the superior product at a comparable price. The frame is more durable and the color will not wash out as easily. Marvin will give you the most out of your investment due to their high quality.
Marvin Windows Pricing
The cost of Marvin windows generally ranges from $800 to $3,000 per window, varying based on the selected model and customization options.
Additionally, the Infinity from Marvin product line ranges from $800 to $1,400 per replacement window on average
Andersen Windows Pricing
Priced according to complexity and size, the cost of Andersen windows typically ranges from $350 to $4,000 per window.
Additionally, Andersen offers a comprehensive warranty, similar to Marvin, covering both parts and labor, ensuring long-term value and peace of mind for homeowners.
Additional Differences Between Andersen and Marvin Windows
Energy Efficiency
Marvin and Andersen offer window options that will boost the energy efficiency in your house. They bring down the cost of your energy payments and put an end to cold drafts leaking through the window. The way that they do this is comparable. With each brand, you can be guaranteed that their seals will hold up and protect you from the elements outside.
Customization
Both Andersen and Marvin offer customization options. The Andersen E-series offers various wood species and 50 color options to choose from. You can also choose from a number of specialty windows in non-standard shapes.
Marvin also offers 19 different colors that will refuse to fade through exposure to the outside elements. Their aesthetic will continue to persevere as if it were new through extreme heat, ice, and high winds due to their patented acrylic exterior coating.
Marvin Signature additionally allows you to choose the window type, grid patterns, molding, and more to personalize your window to the style of your home.
Warranties
The Andersen E-Series and Marvin Signature both have a 20-year warranty on their top-tier glass components. Marvin has a 10-year warranty on the frame, while Andersen has a 5-year warranty. These decades-long warranties just prove the confidence that each brand has in their product and how rare it is for their windows to break.
There are some windows that have different warranties in each brand, so it’s important to look at the specific window you’re interested in to see what their warranty is.
What is Ultrex by Infinity From Marvin?
Ultrex is a custom-reinforced fiberglass composite that is used by Marvin to create their windows and patio doors. This material has superior durability, strength, and stability to other window materials, including Fibrex by Andersen.
Ultrex’s durability is unmatched. It won’t lose its shape or melt even in extreme temperatures up to 285 degrees Fahrenheit. The material can be subjected to 48,000 hours of sunlight without fading the thick, acrylic finish on Ultrex fiberglass.
Marvin Elevate and Infinity from Marvin windows are offered using the Ultrex material.
Ultrex Fiberglass Construction:
- They start with thin strands of strong glass cables and saturate them with specifically compounded resins.
- They pull the strands through a heated dye and cut them with diamond-edged blades to form Ultrex.
- They top Ultrex off with their proprietary acrylic finish that is smoother and 3x thicker than their competitor’s options.
What is Fibrex by Andersen?
Fibrex is a blend of 40% wood fiber by weight with 60% thermoplastic polymer by weight. It blocks thermal transfer better than aluminum, reducing your heating and cooling bills. It’s also twice as strong as vinyl and resists rot, decay, fungal growth, flaking, blistering, peeling, and corroding.
Ultrex vs. Fibrex: Which Is the Better Option?
The simple answer is that Marvin’s Ultrex is the better option. It’s stronger, more durable, and has a longer lifespan than Fibrex. The material is of better quality all around and is a stronger investment, especially since their price is comparable to Andersen’s Fibrex.
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