Milgard vs Andersen Overview
Andersen is one of the most established window brands in the U.S., offering wood, composite (Fibrex®), and fiberglass windows across multiple product lines. Renewal by Andersen is its premium, full-service replacement division.
Milgard is known for strong vinyl and fiberglass offerings with competitive pricing and solid warranties, particularly in the Western U.S.
| Feature | Andersen Windows | Renewal by Andersen | Milgard Windows |
|---|---|---|---|
| Founded | 1903 | 1995 (division of Andersen) | 1958 |
| Materials | Wood, Fibrex® composite, aluminum-clad | Fibrex® composite | Vinyl, fiberglass, aluminum |
| Installed Cost (Per Window) | $500 – $2,000+ | $1,000 – $3,500+ | $400 – $1,500+ |
| Best For | Premium wood & architectural designs | Full-service replacement projects | Budget-friendly vinyl & fiberglass |
| Installation | Dealer or contractor installed | Company-trained installers | Dealer installed |
| Warranty | 20 years glass / 10 years parts | 20 years glass / 10 years parts / 2 years labor | Limited lifetime (varies by line) |
| Customization | Extensive | High | Moderate to high |
Want to compare more brands? Start here:
- Champion Windows vs. Renewal by Andersen
- Renewal by Andersen vs. Andersen Windows
- Pella vs. Andersen
- Marvin vs. Andersen Windows
- Pella vs. Marvin
Andersen Windows vs. Milgard Cost Difference
Costs below are per window installed.
- Milgard: $400 to $1,800
- Andersen (retail lines): $500 to $2,000
- Renewal by Andersen: $1,000 to $3,500+
Renewal by Andersen typically costs more because it bundles product, installation, marketing, and warranty into a single-service model.
Side-by-Side Cost Comparison (Common Styles)
| Window Style | Milgard Installed | Andersen Installed | Renewal by Andersen Installed |
|---|---|---|---|
| Double-Hung | $450 to $1,200 | $600 to $1,600 | $1,200 to $2,500 |
| Casement | $500 to $1,400 | $700 to $1,800 | $1,300 to $2,800 |
| Sliding | $400 to $1,100 | $600 to $1,500 | $1,000 to $2,200 |
Labor typically accounts for 30 to 50% of the total cost, depending on installation complexity and region.
Andersen Windows vs Milgard: How to Choose
Budget
If you’re working with a tighter budget, Milgard vinyl windows are usually the more affordable option. Renewal by Andersen is often the highest-cost choice. See our Andersen Windows cost guide here.
Materials
Each window brand has its own signature windows:
- Andersen offers wood and composite windows.
- Renewal by Andersen uses Fibrex®.
- Milgard specializes in vinyl and fiberglass.
Window Types
All brands offer double-hung, casement, sliding, picture, and specialty window shapes. Andersen has more architectural and historic design options.
Aesthetics
Andersen wood windows deliver a traditional, high-end appearance. Milgard fiberglass offers slimmer frames than vinyl.
Availability
You can find all three window brands across the U.S., but there are nuances to this:
- Milgard is strongest in the Western U.S.
- Andersen has broader national availability.
- Renewal by Andersen operates in most major metro markets.
Colors
Renewal by Andersen offers extensive interior/exterior color combinations. Milgard vinyl options are more limited but improving.
Service and Warranty
Top window brands tend to feature some of the best warranties in the industry, but there are always nuances:
- Milgard: Many lines include a limited lifetime warranty covering key components and, in some cases, glass seal failure, but labor coverage usually depends on the dealer or contractor unless your installation agreement includes it.
- Renewal by Andersen: Warranty coverage is more streamlined because Renewal by Andersen provides both the product and installation, including labor coverage through its limited installation warranty in addition to product coverage.
- Andersen Windows (Retail Lines): Andersen warranties typically cover the window components, but installation and labor coverage varies by installer, so your contractor’s workmanship warranty is a major part of your total protection.
Durability and Lifespan
- Vinyl (Milgard): 20 to 30 years
- Fibrex® (Renewal by Andersen): 30+ years
- Wood-Clad (Andersen Windows): 30+ years with maintenance
Energy Efficiency and Insulation
All brands offer ENERGY STAR® window options. Fibrex® and fiberglass tend to outperform basic vinyl in insulation and expansion stability.
Climate
Your climate is a big factor in choosing a new window. Here’s what we recommend:
- Cold Climates: Andersen composite or fiberglass perform well.
- Hot Climates: Milgard vinyl is cost-effective and energy efficient.
- Coastal: Aluminum-clad Andersen may resist salt exposure better.
Best for
- Budget Option: Milgard Vinyl
- Premium Wood Option: Andersen 400 Series
- Full-Service Window Replacement: Renewal by Andersen
Pros and Cons
Andersen / Renewal Pros
- Premium materials
- Strong brand reputation
- High resale value
Andersen / Renewal Cons
- Higher pricing
- Renewal limits installer flexibility
Milgard Pros
- Affordable
- Solid vinyl and fiberglass options
- Strong warranty
Milgard Cons
- Fewer ultra-premium architectural options
- More regional brand recognition
Andersen Windows vs Milgard Reviews
We’ve done extensive research into each brand. See how they stack up with customers.
Milgard Windows
Overall, homeowners see Milgard as a solid mid- to high-range window option. Learn more about them in our Milgard contractor profile. Check out our Milgard review here.
Here’s a homeowner review from Houzz:
“Nothing but good things to say about Milgard windows. We’ve now used them in a one build and one remodel and I am especially happy with my casement windows from them. One seal broke on picture window about 6 years in (it happens) and they came out and replaced it free.”
Renewal by Andersen
Renewal by Andersen Reviews tend to cite high-quality, luxury window options. Some homeowners report high prices. Here’s our Andersen contractor page.
“Renewal by Andersen makes a very high quality window with a high quality glass to go with it.” – Reddit
Andersen Windows
Andersen Windows’ reviews cite high-quality, durable, and energy efficient windows. Some homeowners report high prices, but reviews, especially for their 400 series, are generally positive.
“A must have window if your home is located on the coast or in a high-wind area. The laminated glass also provides security against unwanted intruders.”
Andersen vs. Marvin vs. Milgard
Marvin competes more directly with Andersen’s premium lines than with Milgard’s vinyl offerings.
| Brand | Installed Cost | Materials | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Milgard | $400 to $1,500 | Vinyl, fiberglass | Budget & mid-range homes |
| Andersen | $500 to $2,000 | Wood, composite | Premium customization |
| Marvin | $700 to $2,500 | Fiberglass, wood | High-end architectural builds |
Andersen Windows vs. Milgard: Buying Checklist
- Compare at least 3 quotes
- Ask about total cost
- Confirm warranty coverage (parts vs labor)
- Check ENERGY STAR ratings
- Ask about financing options
- Look for seasonal rebates
- Negotiate package pricing for whole-home installs
Andersen Windows vs. Milgard: Quick Buying Checklist
- Get at least 3 quotes. Compare the same window style, glass package, and installation scope.
- Confirm total installed cost. Ask for materials, labor, disposal, trim, and permit fees included.
- Verify warranty coverage. Separate product coverage from labor or installation coverage.
- Check ENERGY STAR® ratings. Match U-factor and SHGC to your climate zone.
- Ask about financing. Many dealers offer promotional payment plans.
- Look for rebates. Seasonal discounts or manufacturer incentives may apply.
- Negotiate whole-home pricing. Bulk installs often qualify for package discounts.
Bottom Line: Compare pricing, performance, and warranty details side by side before choosing Andersen or Milgard.
Which Is Better, Milgard or Andersen?
Milgard is often the better choice for homeowners focused on value and solid vinyl performance. Andersen and Renewal by Andersen are typically better for homeowners prioritizing premium materials, customization, and long-term design appeal.
If you’re ready to compare pricing, Modernize can connect you with vetted local window contractors so you can get accurate quotes and make a confident decision.
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