This afternoon while watching CNN I was treated to 4 Renewable by Anderson windows commercials within a half hour.  I’m always wary of the products of companies that’s spend tons of money on advertisements so I logged onto to the Consumer Reports website and brought up their replacement windows ratings.  As I expected, the replacement windows offered by Renewal by Anderson are neither the highest rated nor the best value for the money.  

The following are the Consumer Reports ratings for replacement windows by various companies followed by the costs per window.  9If you would like to understand the methodology used by Consumer Reports to rate the various, log on to their website.)

Double-Hung Windows

88  Preservation Window Series – $550 (Best CR rating)

87  Pella Lifestyle Series – $800 

87  Andersen A-Series – $500

87  Reliabilt (Lowe’s) 3500 Series – $325 (Best value)

86  Marvin Essential – $900

84  JELD-WEN V-4500 Series- $450

82  American Craftsman 70 Pro Series – $350

77  Simonton Reflections 5500 – $350

76  Pella 150 Series – $239

71  Andersen 400 Series Woodwright – $530

76  Pella 150 Series – $239

Storm Windows 

98  PGT Winguard – $640 (Best CR rating, Best value)

97  Marvin Coastline – $1,560

91  Eco Window Systems Eco-Guard Series 150 – $590 (One of best values)

81  Pella Hurricane Shield Series – $860

80  Andersen 400 Series – $1,180

76  CWS Windpact – $725

72  ES Windows ES-MX1000 – $375

The lesson we all can learn is that don’t always buy the most heavenly advertised products. Do your homework first.

Rick Guilbeau (Cajun)