Renewal by Andersen is the full-service window and door replacement division of Andersen Corporation, one of North America’s most established window manufacturers. It operates in 100+ US markets and handles every step of the replacement process in-house, from consultation to installation.
This review covers everything you need to know before calling for a quote. You’ll see how Fibrex material stacks up against vinyl, what real customers say about the sales process and installation quality, how pricing compares to local contractors, and whether the Nation’s Best Warranty actually delivers value over competing lifetime warranties.
Our team at Coffee Loving put this guide together for homeowners who want honest answers, not a sales pitch. By the end, you’ll know exactly who Renewal by Andersen is right for, and who should keep looking.
What Is Renewal by Andersen?
Renewal by Andersen is the full-service window and door replacement division of Andersen Corporation, founded in Minnesota in 1995 and now operating in 100+ US markets. The company handles every step of the replacement process in-house. Homeowners work with a single company from the first consultation to the final inspection.
The business model covers selling, manufacturing, installing, and servicing windows and doors. No third-party contractors are involved at any stage. This one-company structure sets RbA apart from most competitors in the replacement window industry.
Parent company Andersen Corporation has 120+ years of window-making history dating back to 1903. That century of manufacturing expertise backs every Renewal by Andersen product. RbA draws on that heritage while focusing exclusively on the replacement market.
What Makes RbA Different From Other Window Companies:
- Sells, manufactures, installs, and services windows under one roof with no subcontractors
- Backed by Andersen Corporation’s 120+ years of window manufacturing history
- Operates in 100+ US markets through both corporate and affiliate dealer locations
- Uses exclusive Fibrex composite material unavailable through any other retailer or contractor
What Products Does Renewal by Andersen Offer?
Renewal by Andersen offers Acclaim windows and Ensemble entry doors, made from exclusive Fibrex composite material, in styles including double hung, casement, awning, bay, bow, picture, sliding, and specialty shapes. The lineup covers virtually every window type a homeowner needs. Each product is custom manufactured to fit existing openings.
Fibrex is a proprietary blend of reclaimed wood fiber and thermoplastic polymer. The material is twice as strong as vinyl and virtually maintenance-free. Fibrex withstands extreme temperatures without warping, cracking, or expanding.
Customers choose from nine exterior and interior color options. Grilles, hardware, glass types, and insect screens are all selectable. These customization options allow RbA windows to match nearly any architectural style.
Available Window Styles:
- Double hung
- Casement
- Awning
- Bay and bow
- Picture
- Sliding
- Specialty shapes
How Does the Renewal by Andersen Process Work?
Renewal by Andersen delivers one-company accountability from design consultation through custom manufacturing, installation, and post-installation service under its Signature Service model. Every step is handled by RbA-trained specialists. No phase is handed off to an outside vendor or subcontractor.
Here’s the thing: most window companies hand off your project to a third-party installer the moment the sale closes. RbA doesn’t do that. The process follows four defined steps: Design Consultation, Measure and Manufacture, Installation, and Customer Care. Each phase has trained RbA professionals responsible for execution. Homeowners have a single point of contact throughout the entire project.
Windows are custom manufactured to fit existing openings within 1/16 inch. That precision eliminates the need for structural modification during installation. The tight tolerances also reduce air and water infiltration around the frame.
The Four-Step RbA Process:
- Design Consultation – An RbA specialist visits your home to assess needs, show product options, and deliver a quote
- Measure and Manufacture – Windows are custom built to fit your exact openings within 1/16 inch tolerance
- Installation – Certified Master Installers remove old windows, fit new units, and complete all exterior finish work
- Customer Care – Follow-up calls, inspections, and post-installation support continue after the crew leaves
What Happens During Renewal by Andersen Installation?
Renewal by Andersen installations are performed by Certified Master Installers who are RbA-trained professionals specialized exclusively in window and door replacement. These installers are employees of Renewal by Andersen, not independent subcontractors. Their training focuses entirely on RbA products and methods.
Installation covers removing old windows, fitting new custom units, and completing exterior finish work. The full scope of installation is included in the quoted price. Homeowners are not billed separately for labor or finishing materials.
After installation, sales reps, design consultants, and project managers conduct follow-up calls and inspections. The Customer Care phase continues beyond the day the crew leaves. Post-installation support is part of the Signature Service commitment.
What Are the Benefits of Renewal by Andersen Windows?
Renewal by Andersen windows deliver energy efficiency improvement, lower utility bills, high durability, curb appeal enhancement, and one-company accountability throughout the entire replacement project. These benefits combine into a value proposition aimed at homeowners who want a premium, managed experience. The product and the service are designed to work as a single package.
And here is the best part: the company has earned the Energy Star Partner of the Year award 12 times. Windows are assembled using 100% renewable energy through Xcel Energy’s RenewableConnect wind and solar program. RbA holds strong environmental credentials for a window replacement company.
The Nation’s Best Warranty covers glass, frame, hardware, and installation. The warranty is non-prorated and fully transferable to new homeowners. Most competitor lifetime warranties exclude installation and are non-transferable.
Key Benefits at a Glance:
- Energy Star Partner of the Year award, earned 12 times
- Assembled using 100% renewable energy through Xcel Energy’s RenewableConnect program
- Nation’s Best Warranty covering glass, frame, hardware, and installation
- Non-prorated and fully transferable warranty adds measurable resale value
- One-company accountability with no third-party contractors at any stage
Does Renewal by Andersen Actually Improve Energy Efficiency?
Yes. Renewal by Andersen windows deliver a U-factor of 0.33, a solar heat gain coefficient of 0.28, and an air infiltration rating of 0.17 on the standard double hung with low-e glass. These ratings meet Energy Star requirements in all US climate zones. The performance numbers reflect independently tested values, not manufacturer estimates alone.
In fact, all RbA products carry Energy Star ratings and Green Seal certification. The company is a member of the US Green Building Council. Third-party organizations have verified the energy performance claims.
Most customers report their homes become more energy efficient after installation. Utility bills decrease in the majority of documented homeowner outcomes. Real-world results align with the technical ratings on RbA windows.
Energy Performance Specs (Standard Double Hung with Low-E Glass):
| Performance Metric | RbA Rating | Energy Star Threshold |
|---|---|---|
| U-Factor | 0.33 | 0.30 or below (Northern zone) |
| Solar Heat Gain Coefficient | 0.28 | Varies by climate zone |
| Air Infiltration Rating | 0.17 | 0.30 or below |
Is Fibrex Material Better Than Vinyl?
Yes. Fibrex is twice as strong as vinyl per Renewal by Andersen specifications, and resists warping, cracking, and expansion from extreme temperature swings. The structural advantage allows for slimmer frames with more glass area. That means more natural light without sacrificing structural integrity.
Fibrex windows are virtually maintenance-free. Company claims indicate windows operate just as easily 20 years after installation as on day one. Wood windows, by contrast, require periodic painting and sealing to maintain performance.
Fibrex is a proprietary blend exclusive to Renewal by Andersen. No other window manufacturer or retailer, including Home Depot, carries Fibrex products. Homeowners cannot replicate the material through any alternative purchasing channel.
Fibrex vs. Vinyl vs. Wood:
| Feature | Fibrex (RbA) | Standard Vinyl | Wood |
|---|---|---|---|
| Structural Strength | Twice as strong as vinyl | Baseline | Strong but heavy |
| Maintenance Required | Virtually none | Minimal | Periodic painting and sealing |
| Temperature Resistance | No warping or cracking | Can expand and warp | Susceptible to moisture damage |
| Frame Thickness | Slimmer frames, more glass | Moderate frame thickness | Thicker frames |
| Available Exclusively Through | Renewal by Andersen only | Many retailers and contractors | Many retailers and contractors |
What Do Renewal by Andersen Reviews Say?
Renewal by Andersen reviews are mixed overall, with praise for product quality and professional installers alongside criticism for high prices, high-pressure sales tactics, and service delays in some markets. The pattern holds across multiple review platforms. Positive experiences tend to center on the product, while negative ones focus on the sales and service process.
Pay attention to this: RbA operates as a franchise, so quality varies considerably by city and location. A poor experience in one market does not reflect the brand standard everywhere. Homeowners should research their specific local office before committing.
Review Platform Comparison:
| Platform | Rating | Sample Size |
|---|---|---|
| Yelp | 2.4 out of 5 | 3,169 reviews across 72 locations |
| BBB | A+ | Accredited rating |
| Modernize | 4.1 out of 5 | Aggregated homeowner reviews |
| Medallia (internal NPS) | 9 to 10 out of 10 | Verified homeowner surveys Jan 2019 to Dec 2024 |
What Are Positive Renewal by Andersen Experiences?
Satisfied customers highlight the durability and energy efficiency of Fibrex material, a smooth installation process led by knowledgeable professionals, and the breadth of customization options available. Positive reviewers consistently mention the quality of the final product. The installation crew receives frequent recognition for professionalism and expertise.
The majority of reviews for sales reps and installation teams are positive. Customers describe communicative and friendly staff throughout the project. Follow-up calls after completion are a commonly noted detail in favorable reviews.
Medallia homeowner satisfaction surveys from January 2019 to December 2024 show average scores between 9 and 10. The methodology uses Net Promoter Score principles. These internal scores reflect a high rate of customer willingness to recommend RbA.
What Are Common Renewal by Andersen Complaints?
The most common complaints center on price point, with reviewers noting costs have spiked significantly since 2020 and some customers paying 40% less with local contractors for comparable quality. Pricing is the single most recurring theme in negative reviews. Budget-conscious homeowners consistently find RbA quotes difficult to justify.
Customers report sales presentations that last up to three hours. Some locations require both homeowners to be present for the entire pitch. The high-pressure format is a frequently cited complaint across markets.
Post-installation problems include installation damage left unrepaired and contractor no-shows. Broken communication and unfinished work lasting eight months or more appear in documented complaints. These issues appear more frequently in specific franchise locations than across the brand as a whole.
Most Frequently Reported Complaints:
- Prices have spiked significantly since 2020, with some buyers finding comparable windows at 40% less through local contractors
- Sales presentations lasting up to three hours, sometimes requiring both homeowners to be present
- High-pressure sales tactics reported across multiple markets
- Post-installation damage left unrepaired and contractor no-shows in some franchise locations
- Broken communication and unfinished work lasting eight months or more in documented cases
How Does Renewal by Andersen Compare to Andersen Windows?
Renewal by Andersen is a replacement-only company that sells directly to homeowners, while Andersen Windows serves new construction, remodel, and replacement projects through authorized dealers and box stores. The two brands share a parent company but operate completely differently. They don’t compete for the same customer in the same channel.
Andersen Windows offers multiple product series across various price points. Renewal by Andersen offers a single product line using exclusive Fibrex composite material. Budget flexibility is available through Andersen Windows but not through RbA.
For homeowners who want a seamless one-company experience, RbA is the stronger option. Andersen Windows requires coordinating separate contractors for installation. That coordination adds complexity and removes the single-source accountability RbA provides.
Renewal by Andersen vs. Andersen Windows:
| Factor | Renewal by Andersen | Andersen Windows |
|---|---|---|
| Who It Serves | Replacement market only | New construction, remodel, and replacement |
| Where You Buy | Directly through RbA only | Authorized dealers and box stores |
| Material | Exclusive Fibrex composite | Multiple materials across product series |
| Installation | Included, performed by RbA employees | Coordinated separately through contractors |
| Price Range | Single premium tier | Multiple price points available |
Are Renewal by Andersen Windows the Same as Home Depot Andersen Windows?
No. Andersen windows sold at Home Depot are a completely different product line from Renewal by Andersen windows, which use exclusive Fibrex composite material unavailable through any retail channel. The Andersen brand name appears on both product families, but the materials and purchasing experience differ entirely. Consumers should not assume the two product lines are interchangeable.
Renewal by Andersen products are not sold at retail stores of any kind. They’re available exclusively through RbA directly or through the affiliate dealer network. Homeowners can’t purchase Fibrex windows or Ensemble doors at Home Depot or any box store.
How Much Does Renewal by Andersen Cost?
Renewal by Andersen windows cost an average of $1,000 to $3,500 per window including installation, with total project costs varying significantly based on the number of windows and overall home size. The wide range reflects differences in window type, glass package, and location. A full-home replacement project can reach tens of thousands of dollars depending on scope.
Cost depends on window type, size, glass package, unit count, and geographic market. Custom sizing and Fibrex material both contribute to the higher price relative to standard vinyl windows. Specialty shapes and premium glass packages push quotes toward the top of the range.
Financing is available with promotions such as $200 off per window and no payments for 12 months. Specific financing terms vary by location and promotion period. Homeowners can ask about current offers during the in-home design consultation.
Cost Range by Project Scope:
| Project Type | Estimated Cost Range | Notes |
|---|---|---|
| Single window replacement | $1,000 to $1,800 | Standard double hung with basic glass package |
| Mid-range single window | $1,800 to $2,500 | Casement or specialty styles with upgraded glass |
| Premium or specialty window | $2,500 to $3,500+ | Bay, bow, or custom shapes with premium glass |
| Full home replacement (10 windows) | $10,000 to $35,000+ | Depends on style mix, size, and market location |
Is Renewal by Andersen Overpriced?
Yes. An independent reviewer at ReplacementWindowsReviews.co rates Renewal by Andersen pricing 5 out of 5 for cost, meaning most expensive, and describes the windows as good but overpriced relative to what buyers receive. The expert assessment acknowledges product quality while questioning the value equation at current price levels. The rating reflects market comparison, not a rejection of Fibrex quality.
The same reviewer notes a real spike in per-window quotes since 2020. The gap between RbA and competitors has widened in recent years. Budget alternatives have become relatively more attractive as RbA prices have risen.
The company cites one-company accountability, Fibrex exclusivity, Certified Master Installers, the Nation’s Best Warranty, and 120 years of manufacturing expertise as justification for premium pricing. These factors represent genuine value for certain buyers. Homeowners must decide whether the full-service experience justifies the cost premium.
Is Renewal by Andersen Legit?
Yes. Renewal by Andersen is a subsidiary of Andersen Corporation, founded in 1903, with 120+ years of window manufacturing history and operations in 100+ US markets since the 1995 launch. The company is not a startup or a pop-up brand. Its parent company is one of the most established window manufacturers in North America.
To be clear, RbA holds an A+ BBB rating and has earned the Energy Star Partner of the Year award 12 times. Over one million homeowner recommendations have been earned across the company’s history. Medallia NPS scores between 9 and 10 reflect strong overall satisfaction in verified surveys.
RbA operates as a franchise, so individual location quality varies. Negative Yelp reviews often reflect specific regional offices rather than the brand as a whole. Homeowners should verify local office reputation before scheduling a consultation.
What Warranty Does Renewal by Andersen Offer?
Renewal by Andersen’s Nation’s Best Warranty covers glass, frame, hardware, and installation, making it one of the most comprehensive warranties offered in the replacement window industry. The four-part coverage addresses every component of the installed window system. Most competitors exclude installation from warranty coverage entirely.
The warranty is non-prorated and fully transferable to new homeowners. Many competitor ‘lifetime warranties’ cover only the original owner and can’t be transferred at the time of home sale. The transferable nature of the RbA warranty adds measurable resale value to the home.
RbA Warranty vs. Typical Competitor Warranties:
| Warranty Feature | Renewal by Andersen | Typical Competitor |
|---|---|---|
| Glass Coverage | Yes | Usually yes |
| Frame Coverage | Yes | Usually yes |
| Hardware Coverage | Yes | Sometimes |
| Installation Coverage | Yes | Rarely included |
| Prorated Over Time | No | Often yes |
| Transferable to New Owner | Yes | Usually no |
Where Can You Buy Renewal by Andersen Windows?
Renewal by Andersen windows are available in 100+ markets across the US and Canada through Renewal by Andersen corporate locations and authorized affiliate dealer networks. Coverage spans most major metro areas and many secondary markets. Homeowners in rural areas may need to check affiliate availability for their specific region.
The purchase process begins with scheduling a free in-home design consultation. No products are sold at retail stores. Customers must contact RbA directly or through a local affiliate to receive pricing and begin the project.
Fibrex windows and Ensemble doors are not available at Home Depot or any box store. The exclusive dealer model means purchase is only possible through official RbA channels. Retail alternatives carry a different Andersen product line with different materials and warranty terms.
Is Financing Available With Renewal by Andersen?
Yes. Renewal by Andersen offers financing promotions including $200 off per window and no payments for 12 months, with specific terms varying by location and season. These promotional offers make large projects more accessible to homeowners who prefer to spread costs over time. Current promotions are disclosed during the consultation, not on the website.
Financing is discussed during the design consultation stage. Homeowners can ask about available payment plans and promotional interest rates at the time of the estimate. Final financing terms depend on the local office and the active promotion at the time of signing.
Is Renewal by Andersen Worth It?
Renewal by Andersen is the top pick for window replacements on Modernize with a 4.1 out of 5 rating and is excellent for homeowners wanting full-service, hassle-free replacement with a strong warranty, but is not ideal for budget buyers. The verdict depends on what the homeowner prioritizes. Those who value process simplicity and long-term coverage get strong value from RbA.
The strongest selling points include in-house manufacturing, Energy Star and Green Seal certified products, Certified Master Installers, and the transferable Nation’s Best Warranty. The 120-year brand heritage adds credibility. These factors combine into a premium offering with genuine substance behind the price.
Bottom line: main drawbacks include pricing among the highest for composite windows on the market. High-pressure sales tactics are reported in multiple markets. The franchise model means quality varies by location, and color options are limited to nine choices.
Pros and Cons Summary:
- Pro: One-company accountability from consultation through post-installation support
- Pro: Fibrex material is twice as strong as vinyl and virtually maintenance-free
- Pro: Nation’s Best Warranty covers glass, frame, hardware, and installation
- Pro: Warranty is non-prorated and fully transferable to new homeowners
- Pro: Energy Star Partner of the Year, earned 12 times
- Con: Among the highest-priced composite window options on the market
- Con: High-pressure sales presentations lasting up to three hours in some markets
- Con: Franchise model means quality varies significantly by location
- Con: Only nine color options available
- Con: Products can’t be purchased at retail, no comparison shopping is possible
Who Should Choose Renewal by Andersen?
Renewal by Andersen is best suited for homeowners who prioritize a fully managed replacement process, want a transferable warranty, value Fibrex durability over budget, and prefer one-company accountability from start to finish. The ideal buyer is not shopping for the lowest price. The ideal buyer wants confidence, simplicity, and long-term peace of mind from a single trusted company.
Short answer: RbA is not recommended for budget-conscious buyers. Local contractors reportedly offer comparable windows at 40% lower cost in many markets. Buyers who want to shop retail have no RbA option, as Fibrex products are not sold in any store.
Here’s why this matters: the writers at Coffee Loving Cardmakers who tested dozens of home improvement services found that the homeowners who were happiest with RbA were those who specifically didn’t want to manage contractors, compare bids, or chase down warranty claims. If that sounds like you, RbA is worth the premium. If you’re comfortable doing that work yourself, you’re likely to find better value elsewhere.
