Occasionally, a brand emerges that becomes synonymous with its field. For timekeeping, it’s Rolex. In the realm of computing, Apple stands out. And for windows, the name is Pella.
Established in 1925, Pella has grown to boast over 17 manufacturing sites and more than 200 showrooms nationwide. This Pella windows review will explore the brand in-depth, showcasing its pros and cons and offering viable alternatives, including Champion Windows.
Pella Windows at a Glance
Let’s start this Pella Windows review with a brief appetizer of what this leading window company has to offer.
Pros
- Nearly 100 years of experience
- Multiple award recipient
- All products meet U.S. EPA Guidelines
- Available in 50 states
- Broad selection of windows
- Integrates with smart-home technology
- A range of price points
- Exceptional customer service
- Free in-home design consultations
- Over 150 patents on window tech and innovation
Cons
- Some warranties are non-transferable
- Varied warranty coverage
Overview
Pella has been transforming views since 1925 from its roots in Pella, Iowa.
If you’re looking for a cozy spot to watch the seasons change or to equip your home with the latest in energy efficiency, Pella is an excellent option. Its reputation is solid, with high praise from industry experts and customers.
Dive deeper into this Pella windows review to discover Pella’s range of chic, yet budget-friendly window solutions.
>>Get a window replacement quote from Champion Windows
Pella Product Selection
Pella has a wide array of products to choose from, but it can all boil down to just two main categories: windows and doors.
Windows Selection
Pella’s window selection is known for its variety, first and foremost. From casement to specialty windows, the company’s got it all. Mix and match materials? Choose from wood, vinyl, or fiberglass to fit your vision. Customize down to the last detail with options for color, style, and specific rooms. In essence, if you can dream it, Pella likely offers it.
Door Selection
Now, let’s pivot to doors. Surprisingly, Pella’s door range rivals its windows. You’ll find an array of choices from front to patio doors, and yes, even enough to make the Key Maker from the Matrix nod in approval. Materials, parts, design tips? They’re all there, making it easy to find the perfect match for your entryway.
Pella Windows Review: Energy Efficiency
Pella’s commitment to the environment is in every window it crafts, all meeting U.S. EPA guidelines.
Pella’s energy-efficient windows may make it possible to trim your utility bill by 12%, recouping 60% of your project costs over time, plus a $600 tax credit. Over 25 options await to guide your design and room organization for an energy-smart home. Pella’s vision is to give you a clear outlook on a sustainable future right in your living space.
Pella Windows Review: Cost
What would any Pella Windows review be without talking about cost and deals?
If you like shopping online from the convenience of your home, Pella is willing to indulge you by offering 10% off your first online purchase.
Pella Windows Cost Quotes From Real Customers
Pella’s reputation for quality is backed by numbers: it claims that its Cardinal XL insulated glass has a failure rate of just 0.2% at 20 years, and 0.47% at 50 years. For a standard insert replacement, expect to invest between $650 and $1,000 per window—a fair price for premium windows.
Digging into the digits, some customers have faced quotes of $20,000 for fiberglass and $17,000 for vinyl for a set of ten windows. That’s a steep climb from the online ballpark figures, which hover around half that amount. It’s a clear sign: arm yourself with multiple estimates and a readiness to negotiate.
While Pella’s prices might initially seem lofty, remember that a successful negotiation could significantly slash those figures.
>>Get a window replacement quote from Champion Windows
Online Pella Windows Reviews
Now let’s take a look at what Pella’s customers and other reviewers have to say.
Real Customer Reviews of Pella
You know a company is good when it feels comfortable enough to include reviews from real customers. Pella has a few, and from what our Pella Windows review could see, its customers seem pretty stoked about the service, products, and work done by Pella.
In fact, there are over 6,000 customer reviews listed for Pella’s windows, with an overall average rating of 4.2 out of 5. That’s a winning number if you have a pressing window project and need a company that you can depend on.
Reddit Reviews of Pella Windows
Ultimately, people will always browse Reddit for reviews and so we scanned some of its subreddits, collected the following Pella window reviews from actual customers, and summarized them for you:
Positive Pella Windows Reviews From Reddit
- Long-Term Satisfaction: A customer reflects on his positive 11-year journey with Pella windows and sliders, highlighting the retractable screens’ excellent integration. Despite a few maintenance calls, which were attributed to normal wear and tear from kids and pets, the company provided valuable guidance on self-repair and a proactive approach.
- Consistent Quality Across Homes: A loyal Pella user shares her contentment with the windows and installation in their last two homes. She hasn’t felt the need to compare, as Pella has consistently delivered a good product.
- Architect Series Acclaim: Another homeowner boasts about upgrading to Pella’s “architect” series, praising the internal cellular blinds as the finest he’s ever seen. A savvy negotiation by the contractor led to significant savings, and the Pella representative’s guidance was instrumental in accommodating the size of his old house.
- Positive Post-Purchase Support: A customer recounts her positive experience with Pella’s customer service during a warranty claim for a cracked window. The prompt and supportive response reinforced her belief in the brand’s quality.
- Regional Reliability: One resident notes that Pella’s performance varies by region, with windows in SW Florida failing around the 10-year mark, while reportedly lasting longer in northern climates.
Negative Pella Windows Reviews From Reddit
- A Costly Leak: A homeowner reveals that after investing nearly $100,000 in Pella windows and doors, he now faces leaks and damage. He reports a 67% failure rate in their sliding glass doors within just 4-5 years. The Pella team diagnosed the issue as failed seals, requiring a costly reglazing process not fully covered by the warranty.
- Warranty Woes: Another customer shares her frustration with a cracked window and a warranty claim that went awry. Despite initial assurances, she faced unexpected payment requests and poor installation that led to further damage. This experience left her questioning the safety of using Pella windows.
Third-Party Pella Windows Reviews and Ratings
What do critics know? At one time or another, everyone has seen a movie that the critics loved but you might’ve hated, or vice-versa. Yet when it comes to windows, our Pella windows review was surprised to find that both critics and customers agree on Pella.
From Architectural Digest to U.S.A. Today, and from This Old House to Today’s Homeowner, the critics all say that Pella has an attractive, durable, and affordable product. In fact, with 5 being the best review possible, here are the reviews of Pella offered by the aforementioned sites.
Altogether, the average between most reviews is 4.2, which turns out to be the exact same rating Pella received from over 6,000 of its customers.
Pella Windows Installation Process
Once you choose Pella as your window company, it has a very simple, yet efficient 3-step installation process:
- Schedule a free consultation where a Pella expert will measure your windows, help you pick a product, and provide a no-obligation quote. Or shop online and do your own measuring and selecting.
- Pick your replacement window or windows from Pella’s large selection of styles, materials, and color options.
- Choose either a Pella Installer or your own independent contractor to install your beautiful Pella custom window.
If it turns out that you choose a Pella Installer, you’ll be eligible for the Pella Care Guarantee that covers issues related to installation for up to 10 years.
After searching for “window replacement near me” and stumbling on to Pella’s site, book an installation day.
On your installation day, Pella contractors will review the day’s plan with you, after which they’ll then cover all your belongings, so nothing gets dirty. Depending on the type of window and the condition of your home, you can expect your Pella window installation to take anywhere from a few hours to a couple of days.
Once the work is done, Pella will then finish up by promising to leave your home looking exactly as it did to begin with, except of course for your beautiful, brand-new windows.
Pella State Availability
Our Pella Windows review found that the company, founded in Iowa, has outlets in every state in the United States except Alaska. Pella is also available in four provinces of Canada; Alberta, British Columbia, Ontario, and Quebec.
>>Get a window replacement quote from Champion Windows
Pella Warranty Coverage
Pella doesn’t just hand out a one-size-fits-all warranty; it’s got a whole spread tailored to each window type and material.
Lifetime Limited Warranty
Pella’s lifetime limited warranty is a promise that covers your windows for, well, a lifetime—or sometimes just a few years. It’s a mixed bag, though. Some warranties can move on to the next homeowner, but others are a one-owner deal.
So, what’s the real deal with the lifetime limited warranty? It’s got your back, covering key parts of your window, but not forever and not for everything. The coverage length? That’s tied to what window you pick.
Limited Warranty
Pella’s got you covered with limited warranties stretching from 2 to a whopping 20 years. Take wood windows, for example—they’re in for a solid 2-year coverage. And those fancy laminated glass and hardware pieces? They’re good for 10.
What’s Covered?
We’re talking about the essentials here: glass, frame, sash, finish, and hardware. But remember, it’s not a blanket coverage. Each model has its own warranty quirks.
Bottom line: Pella’s warranty menu is as varied as its window selection. So, before you commit, do yourself a favor—grab a coffee, sit down, and really get to know the warranty for your Pella pick.
Pella’s Legal Challenges and Settlements
To make sure our Pella windows review is objective, we also included a little known fact about this premium windows and doors brand: There are multiple class action lawsuits against Pella, specifically its windows.
Most of the lawsuits are about the aluminum clad windows. So, what happened? Well, a design hiccup that lets water sneak in, leading to wood rot. Plus, there’s talk of consumer fraud—claims that Pella kept mum about the design’s part in the damage.
Here are a few examples:
- Pella v. Saltzman: Pella’s facing some heat with the “Proline” casement windows. The issue? A design flaw that might let water in, causing quicker wood rot.
- Eubank v. Pella Corp.: Since 2006, Pella’s been in the legal spotlight for aluminum-clad windows that allegedly let water through, causing early failures and even damaging buildings.
- Architect Series Windows: The Architect Series isn’t immune either—claims of leaks and wood rot are part of the mix.
Others
Back in 2018, it closed a class action with a $26 million settlement over leaky windows leading to wood rot. Fast rewind to 2012, and the company was looking at a hefty $90 million settlement. More recently, in 2019, it agreed to a $35 million payout to settle claims of defective windows, offering partial refunds or repair reimbursements.
And as recently as December 2023, Pella issued a product recall of some of its casement windows due to them being an injury hazard, according to the US Consumer Product Safety Commission.
Pella Windows vs. Other Window Brands
If you’re still not sure if Pella Windows is for you, we compare it to the best window installation companies so you can have a better understanding of what’s out there.
1. Champion Windows - Overall Best Alternative to Pella Windows
Pros
- In-house manufacturing
- Full-service production
- Diverse product range
- Prices include labor and installation
Cons
- Limited modern styles
Why We Chose Champion
Champion Windows excels with its in-house manufacturing and comprehensive service. Thanks to its extensive production and excellent value for money, it’s our #1 recommendation among the alternatives we covered in this Pella Windows review.
Features of Champion Windows
- Built and installed by Champion
- Includes labor in cost
Summary
Since '53, Champion Windows has been nailing the window game, scoring high with both critics and customers. Our top pick is all about giving you the best, from sunroom design to vinyl siding.
>>Get a window replacement quote from Champion Windows
2. Window Nation - Best for Energy Efficiency
Pros
- Energy Star certified
- Minimal follow-up service
- 96% of projects haven’t needed follow-ups
Cons
- Younger company
Why We Chose Window Nation
Window Nation is the rising star for energy-efficient and custom-fit windows.
Features of Window Nation
- Over 1,500 styles
- High customer satisfaction
Summary
Window Nation, starting in '06, quickly expanded to over 25 locations. This company is big on keeping your energy bills low and customer satisfaction high, boasting a 90% approval rating.
>>Get a window replacement quote from Window Nation
3. Billy.com - Best for Local Contractor Connections
Pros
- Supports local businesses
- Easy-to-use platform
- Ideal for small tasks
Cons
- No direct services
- Contractor quality varies
Why We Chose Billy.com
Billy.com shines as a hub for homeowners who wish to find top-notch local window contractors.
Features of Billy.com
- “Hire a Pro” feature
- Wide contractor network
Summary
Billy.com isn’t your typical window company. This online platform is the middleman you didn’t know you needed, connecting you with a plethora of local pros. Just remember, vetting is on you—it’s all about options, not guarantees.
>>Get a window replacement quote from Billy.com
4. Statewide Remodeling - Best for Texan Home Renovations
Pros
- Award-winning service
- Top 500 home remodeling contractors in the US
- Quick appointment scheduling
Cons
- Limited to four states
- May be pricier
Why We Chose Statewide Remodeling
Statewide Remodeling has earned its stripes with over 26 years of top-tier home renovations.
Features of Statewide Remodeling
- Consumer’s Choice Award Winner
- A+ BBB rating
Summary
Statewide Remodeling is the go-to for window replacement in many cities, boasting a legacy of quality and trust. With a commitment to quick service and an A+ rating, this company is definitely a solid choice for your window woes.
>>Get a window replacement quote from Statewide Remodeling
FAQs About Pella Windows
Our Pella windows review will also answer the internet’s most asked questions about the premium windows brand.
Are Pella Windows Worth the Price?
Yes. We discovered in our Pella Windows review that the general consensus is that it’s well worth the price. That’s because it offers solid products with varying price points for different budgets. How much a Pella window will cost though depends on several variables, such as the style, size, material, and color of the window you choose.
Why Is Pella So Expensive?
If you’re pondering a partnership with Pella, know this: you’re paying for quality that aims to match the hype. Pella’s windows stand out in the market, not just for their steeper price tag, but for their top-notch materials and energy-saving perks. The company serves up a diverse menu of options—wood, fiberglass, vinyl—with wood leading the pack as the premium choice.
Are Pella Windows Vinyl or Aluminum?
Pella’s lineup—wood, fiberglass, vinyl—has got your back, ensuring your home’s style is on point. Dive into this collection; it’s crafted to elevate your space, no matter your pick.
What’s the Average Price of a Pella Window?
On average, you’re looking at $675. However, your final tab depends on the series, type, and how much you tweak it.
- The Lifestyle Series swings between $645–$3,260.
- Impervia? That’s $700–$1,740.
- Opting for the 250 Series? That’ll be $430–$1,265.
- For Encompass by Pella, you’re in the $270–$725 ballpark.
Is Pella as Good as Champion Windows?
Well, it depends. Pella can compete with Champion Windows when it comes to experience and innovation. When it comes to customer protection, however, Champion Windows certainly has an edge over Pella; a limited lifetime warranty covers all Champion Comfort 365 Windows, while Pella’s warranty changes according to the model you pick.
Our Conclusion: Pella Windows Review
What we’ve tried to do with this Pella windows review is to help you focus on what your needs are, rather than being overwhelmed by a process you may not be familiar with.
We’ve also included data from other Pella window reviews so you can see what both pros and customers think of this nearly hundred-year-old window service.
Overall, we think Pella’s a dependable service with a wide selection of windows and price points, plus guaranteed installations and warranties. Still, it’s a good idea to keep your options open… especially since Champion Windows and other worthy alternatives have their own advantages as well.
This is a sponsored article. The article should not be considered as advice.