FHB Logo Facebook LinkedIn Email Pinterest Twitter X Instagram Tiktok YouTube Plus Icon Close Icon Navigation Search Icon Navigation Search Icon Arrow Down Icon Video Guide Icon Article Guide Icon Modal Close Icon Guide Search Icon Skip to content
Subscribe
Log In
  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Restoration
  • Videos
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House
  • Podcast
Log In

Discussion Forum

Discussion Forum

Hurd, Anderson, Pella or Marvin windows?

ozguy | Posted in General Discussion on October 3, 2013 12:37pm

Hi,

I’m doing a full gut rehab on a 130 year old frame house, and will need 33 new windows for it. A combination of Casement and double hung aluminum clad windows.

I haven’t heard much about Hurd, and am not sure where they fit regarding Anderson, Pella or Marvin windows. I don’t wish to start a flame fest, but want to know if they’re a good company, with good customer support compared to the others.

They’re certainly cheaper than the others, and I cannot seem to find good information describing their construction strengths and weaknesses compared to the others, which would help in the decision making process.

They did have a major issue (class action law suit) with some UV filter material that warped and made the windows difficult to see out of, but i don’t know much else.

Which window manufacturer provides the best customer service?

Thanks in advance for any advice and information.

Reply
  • X
  • facebook
  • linkedin
  • pinterest
  • email
  • add to favorites Log in or Sign up to save your favorite articles

Replies

  1. calvin | Oct 03, 2013 07:07pm | #1

    oz

    Your answer could be area specific-a local distributor/supplier of a brand sometimes makes all the difference in how problems are handled.  I've seen over the yrs and changing of distributors that what once was a good "company", is now less than suspect-with even no changes in the product>

    I have Marvins in our house (for 24 yrs).  Totally satisfied.  Just looked at a house that had recent replacement (not w/replacement windows) of some large casement banks of windows along with ganged up patio doors.   Beautiful-easy operating and the homeowner claims much less $ than the Eagle group that they installed in a couple other places in this home.

    I work on homes that have Andersens from a long long time ago-right up to just a few yrs old.  Most of the maintanence on these windows has been handled well (as far as parts) from Andersen.  That you can still get parts and pcs. over a long time span is a good thing.

    Pella-used to have a great supplier here.  Since they retired and the operation moved up into Detroit (area)-service is so so.  Parts are often mis-supplied so the ordering process goes on and on.  I hate it.

    Pella as well had a crap design for their cladding that they have now finally changed to something that might just last and not rely solely on sealant.

    Hurd?   no experience.  If it's a JeldWen company-I'd be wary.  I am not impressed with most of the Jeldwen line of product.

    As with most anything-you'll get a bunch of different responses I'm sure on this subject.  The cost of windows are so high that either you love 'em because you shelled out all that dough-or you hate 'em and don't say diddley because you shelled out all that dough.............

    Best of luck.

  2. calvin | Oct 03, 2013 07:13pm | #2

    one other thing.........

    Are you talking "new construction" windows or replacements?

    In a 1950's house (now not real old, but getting there.)  I replaced with Andersen's Replacement windows of the time (10/15 yrs ago).  Removed the stops, slipped the units in and trimmed out just like the usual replacement windows.  These looked good-clad outside-nat. wood interiors.  Not big and bulky frames/sash sides like their vinyl counterparts.   If your old frames / trims / etc are in good condition and you don't want to remove and re-install those elements-something to consider.

    Also-Marvin used to have what they called Sashpack (or close) windows-knocked down jambs with sash I believe.  Might investigate that as well.  No direct experience with that.

    1. ozguy | Oct 04, 2013 09:57am | #4

      Mostly "new construction"

      These will be mostly new construction windows, as some of the windows are a bit out of shape, due to a bit of sag in some areas, and water dmaage in others.

      Some areas i will look at again, and could candidates for replacement.

      The house is in Chicago, so we'll need windows with good thermal properties.

      Since the house is in a landmark historical zone, the front windows need to be restored using the existing all wood double hungs. The front of house faces south, so we're going to use storm windows to add and extra thermal barrier.

      All new windows will be in areas that don't get much (if any) direct sun light, so I'd likely choose windows which block the least amount of light, as the house will be darker than we'd like it to be in certain areas.

      I've heard good things about Marvin, Anderson and Pella, but these Hurd windows are 25% cheaper than the marvins, which is hard to say no to. Hence my quandry, and desire for information about them.

      Thanks for the guidance so far.

      1. Norman | Oct 08, 2013 04:12pm | #7

        I have read ......

        I have read numerous bad things about Pella and a few about Marvin. The only bad thing I have ever read about Andersen is cost, people rave about everything else.

        For a low cost alternative, given that you are in Chicago, you might look at Remodelers Supply. They make their own windows in a factory at Pulaski and Fullerton. They can't be beat for a decent, inexpensive window.

        Good luck.

        1. ozguy | Oct 10, 2013 04:57pm | #8

          Thanks, I'll check them out.

  3. DanH | Oct 03, 2013 07:31pm | #3

    Both Marvin and Andersen have pretty good track records (though any company that's been in business that long will have had a few clinkers along the way).  Andersen, in particular, has a good record of supplying parts for their old windows.

  4. sapwood | Oct 04, 2013 12:42pm | #5

    Your project is large enough to warrent some serious investigation and a certain amount of consideration from the window dealers and manufacturers. That said, I would ask for local references from all the window companies you are looking at. Then go talk to the contractors who installed them and to the owners of the buildings. Their stories will tell the tale. 

    1. ozguy | Oct 08, 2013 12:07pm | #6

      Adding Kolbe to the mix, adding product lines and data...

      Thanks Dan and sapwood for the input.

      I've been doing plenty of research into windows, and have created a list of manufacturers, and their products. Please check it, and let me know where you think it's wrong (or whether I got any of it correct).

      I'm not looking at Vinyl windows, so those are left out. Rolled vs Extruded aluminum is my litmus test for what window is acceptable/better. Due to our house being in a historic district the interior of all windows must be wood, so fiberglass is also out of contention.

      The window manufacturers are not listed in any particular order, but I'd be interested in seeing your rankings.

      Hurd

      "H3" line competes with marvin Fiberglass "integrity" line. Has Roll formed aluminum, rather than extruded alum.

      "Standard" line is extruded. 7 - 10% more than comporable Jeldwen EX line.

      Jeldwen

      2500 series - builders line. Not great windows, but solid enough for those on a tight budget. Rolled Aluminum.

      "traditions plus" line has beefier sash and rail. Roll form aluminum, rather than extruded alum.

      "Siteline EX" line is similar to "traditions plu" line, with extruded sash. Supposed to compete with Marvin and Kolbe. The extruded aluminum is applied like roll form, so more chance of rot (water can't escape), and change color at different rate than trues extruded.

      Kolbe

      "Ultra" line is extruded, better quality than Jeldwen EX, but 15% more. Ensure to use steel spacer, or warranty is compromised.

      "magnum" line is higher end, and more $'s.

      Loewen

      HIgh end windows. Equiv to Marvin, Kolbe at the minimum, and go up from there.

      Uses douglas fir for extra strength/longevity).

      Pella

      "ProLine" is their bottom rung Aluminum window.

      designer series is equiv Hurd standard extruded & Kolbe extruded (25% more than Proline).

      Architectural are next step up.

      Their windows, have rolled aluminum on the sash, and Extruded on the frame.

      Marvin

      "Integrity" line is fiberglass, and a good quality base window.

      "Ultimate" line is very good quality extruded aluminum. Pricier than all of the other windows listed here, except for the Loewen's, which are 10% - 20% higher.

      Once again, please correct me if I'm incorrect is any of my points.

      Price wise, the order, from higher to lower seems to be:

      Loewen

      Marvin

      Kolbe

      Pella

      Hurd

      Jeldwen

      I look forward to any input.

  5. Dinachka | Jun 15, 2014 08:00am | #9

    Final decision?

    Hello,

    I'm wondering what was your final decision?  Did you deside to go with Anderson or Hurd? Are you happy with you decision?

    we are currently remodeling house and need to replace all windows in the house.  Currently we are looking at Hurd windows and Andersen A series.  Any advice?

    thanks!!!

  6. MYBuilder | Jun 17, 2014 06:17am | #10

    There are Anderson windows and Andersen windows. Andersen are more widely used as a national brand name. I like these windows because they come out so easily when I replace them with Marvin or Pella windows. Over the last 25 years, I have replaced more failed Andersen windows than any other single brand. I even replaced one house, with Hurd, before construction was complete.

    I have never had to replace or service Pella windows. I have replaced one House of Marvin windows with Marcin windows. Marvin paid because of a cladding issue and the owners were very happy.

  7. Billth | May 07, 2015 04:45pm | #11

    Hurd windows and doors

    Stay away from Hurd.

    They are junk. Installed Hurd in new house build and they have all lost there seal in about 5 years and will not honor their warranty. Beware

Log in or create an account to post a comment.

Sign up Log in

Become a member and get full access to FineHomebuilding.com

Video Shorts

Categories

  • Business
  • Code Questions
  • Construction Techniques
  • Energy, Heating & Insulation
  • General Discussion
  • Help/Work Wanted
  • Photo Gallery
  • Reader Classified
  • Tools for Home Building

Discussion Forum

Recent Posts and Replies

  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
  • |
View More Create Post

Up Next

Video Shorts

Featured Story

FHB Podcast Segment: Finding Hazardous Materials in a Fixer-Upper

Look closely at these common locations for hazardous materials in older homes.

Featured Video

Video: Build a Fireplace, Brick by Brick

Watch mason Mike Mehaffey construct a traditional-style fireplace that burns well and meets current building codes.

Related Stories

  • Podcast Episode 693: Old-House Hazards, Building Larsen Trusses, AI in Construction
  • FHB Podcast Segment: Finding Hazardous Materials in a Fixer-Upper
  • A Classic Paint Sprayer Gets a Thoughtful Refresh
  • Podcast Episode 692: Introduction to Trade Work, Embodied Carbon, and Envelope Improvements

Highlights

Fine Homebuilding All Access
Fine Homebuilding Podcast
Tool Tech
Plus, get an extra 20% off with code GIFT20

"I have learned so much thanks to the searchable articles on the FHB website. I can confidently say that I expect to be a life-long subscriber." - M.K.

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Fine Homebuilding Magazine

  • Issue 332 - July 2025
    • Custom Built-ins With Job-Site Tools
    • Fight House Fires Through Design
    • Making the Move to Multifamily
  • Issue 331 - June 2025
    • A More Resilient Roof
    • Tool Test: You Need a Drywall Sander
    • Ducted vs. Ductless Heat Pumps
  • Issue 330 - April/May 2025
    • Deck Details for Durability
    • FAQs on HPWHs
    • 10 Tips for a Long-Lasting Paint Job
  • Issue 329 - Feb/Mar 2025
    • Smart Foundation for a Small Addition
    • A Kominka Comes West
    • Making Small Kitchens Work
  • Issue 328 - Dec/Jan 2025
    • How a Pro Replaces Columns
    • Passive House 3.0
    • Tool Test: Compact Line Lasers

Fine Home Building

Newsletter Sign-up

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox.

  • Green Building Advisor

    Building science and energy efficiency advice, plus special offers, in your inbox.

  • Old House Journal

    Repair, renovation, and restoration tips, plus special offers, in your inbox.

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters

Follow

  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
  • Fine Homebuilding

    Dig into cutting-edge approaches and decades of proven solutions with total access to our experts and tradespeople.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X
    • LinkedIn
  • GBA Prime

    Get instant access to the latest developments in green building, research, and reports from the field.

    Start Free Trial Now
    • Facebook
    • YouTube
  • Old House Journal

    Learn how to restore, repair, update, and decorate your home.

    Subscribe Now
    • Facebook
    • Instagram
    • X

Membership & Magazine

  • Online Archive
  • Start Free Trial
  • Magazine Subscription
  • Magazine Renewal
  • Gift a Subscription
  • Customer Support
  • Privacy Preferences
  • About
  • Contact
  • Advertise
  • Careers
  • Terms of Use
  • Site Map
  • Do not sell or share my information
  • Privacy Policy
  • Accessibility
  • California Privacy Rights

© 2025 Active Interest Media. All rights reserved.

Fine Homebuilding receives a commission for items purchased through links on this site, including Amazon Associates and other affiliate advertising programs.

  • Home Group
  • Antique Trader
  • Arts & Crafts Homes
  • Bank Note Reporter
  • Cabin Life
  • Cuisine at Home
  • Fine Gardening
  • Fine Woodworking
  • Green Building Advisor
  • Garden Gate
  • Horticulture
  • Keep Craft Alive
  • Log Home Living
  • Military Trader/Vehicles
  • Numismatic News
  • Numismaster
  • Old Cars Weekly
  • Old House Journal
  • Period Homes
  • Popular Woodworking
  • Script
  • ShopNotes
  • Sports Collectors Digest
  • Threads
  • Timber Home Living
  • Traditional Building
  • Woodsmith
  • World Coin News
  • Writer's Digest
Active Interest Media logo
X
X
This is a dialog window which overlays the main content of the page. The modal window is a 'site map' of the most critical areas of the site. Pressing the Escape (ESC) button will close the modal and bring you back to where you were on the page.

Main Menu

  • How-To
  • Design
  • Tools & Materials
  • Video
  • Blogs
  • Forum
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Magazine
  • Members
  • FHB House

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Podcasts

  • FHB Podcast
  • ProTalk

Webinars

  • Upcoming and On-Demand

Popular Topics

  • Kitchens
  • Business
  • Bedrooms
  • Roofs
  • Architecture and Design
  • Green Building
  • Decks
  • Framing
  • Safety
  • Remodeling
  • Bathrooms
  • Windows
  • Tilework
  • Ceilings
  • HVAC

Magazine

  • Current Issue
  • Past Issues
  • Magazine Index
  • Subscribe
  • Online Archive
  • Author Guidelines

All Access

  • Member Home
  • Start Free Trial
  • Gift Membership

Online Learning

  • Courses
  • Project Guides
  • Reader Projects
  • Podcast

More

  • FHB Ambassadors
  • FHB House
  • Customer Support

Account

  • Log In
  • Join

Newsletter

Get home building tips, offers, and expert advice in your inbox

Signing you up...

This site is protected by reCAPTCHA and the Google Privacy Policy and Terms of Service apply.
See all newsletters
See all newsletters

Follow

  • X
  • YouTube
  • instagram
  • facebook
  • pinterest
  • Tiktok

Join All Access

Become a member and get instant access to thousands of videos, how-tos, tool reviews, and design features.

Start Your Free Trial

Subscribe

FHB Magazine

Start your subscription today and save up to 70%

Subscribe

Enjoy unlimited access to Fine Homebuilding. Join Now

Already a member? Log in

We hope you’ve enjoyed your free articles. To keep reading, become a member today.

Get complete site access to expert advice, how-to videos, Code Check, and more, plus the print magazine.

Start your FREE trial

Already a member? Log in

Privacy Policy Update

We use cookies, pixels, script and other tracking technologies to analyze and improve our service, to improve and personalize content, and for advertising to you. We also share information about your use of our site with third-party social media, advertising and analytics partners. You can view our Privacy Policy here and our Terms of Use here.

Cookies

Analytics

These cookies help us track site metrics to improve our sites and provide a better user experience.

Advertising/Social Media

These cookies are used to serve advertisements aligned with your interests.

Essential

These cookies are required to provide basic functions like page navigation and access to secure areas of the website.

Delete My Data

Delete all cookies and associated data