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With more than 90 years in business, Pella Windows and Doors is one of the oldest window companies in the industry. Over the years, the company has built a reputation for quality products at fair pricing.
If you are considering Pella for your next home remodel, we are here to help. We have conducted a detailed review of the company’s catalog, customer reviews, installation process, and pricing to help you make an informed decision about your next windows project.
Fast Facts About Pella
- Founded: 1925
- State Availability: 50 states
- Warranty Options: Limited lifetime warranty (varies by product)
- Price Range: $100–$1,750
- Energy Efficient Products Available: Yes
Pella Windows Reviews
We analyzed 100 customer reviews on Trustpilot, Yelp, Best Company, and Google Reviews to understand homeowners’ experiences with Pella Windows. Customers share their positive experiences with Pella products, commenting on their windows’ ease of use and craftsmanship. Homeowners also shared good experiences with the energy efficiency of the windows and how energy bills have decreased since installation.
Alternatively, some homeowners expressed their displeasure with Pella’s customer service. Some have experienced frustrations with delayed response time, forgotten callbacks, limited accessibility, or indifferent representatives. Some customers also reference issues with receiving replacement parts or resolutions for damaged installations.
What Homeowners Say About Pella
“When we recently remodeled, we went with Pella windows. I have noticed a big difference in the room, especially where we have UV protection windows. It holds in the heat in the winter and stays cooler during the summer. I feel like my utility bill is reasonable for the house size now.” —Ann B. via Best Company
“We purchased 18 Pella 250 series windows. They are made with very good glass and are big and bright. We know that Pella is a good brand, and they live up to their reputation. The frames are well made, and they are well insulated.” —Lisa H. via Best Company
“Awful! The product itself is great. They truly make a great product. They just have abysmal customer service. You cannot get a return call. No one will EVER get back to you. If a window breaks, you cannot get it fixed or replaced. No other glass company can repair a Pella [product], and Pella itself will not help you. Once your windows are installed, you are on your own.” —GGPatter via Trustpilot
“We have some older Pella casement windows with retractable screens in our 1960s-era house. I have been trying to get parts to repair the roll screens, and I am amazed at the terrible and inefficient customer service. When we finally got a quote (which took 2 weeks), it was over $650 for four slender aluminum tracks and two shade handles. These parts are for one small bathroom window and one average-sized kitchen window. We will not be paying this – I would rather spend the money replacing the windows with another brand.” —Sheryl R. via Trustpilot
Benefits and Drawbacks of Pella
Below, you will find a few key positives and negatives of Pella Windows:
| What We Like | What We Don’t Like |
|---|---|
|
Offers wood, vinyl, and fiberglass window frame options |
Varies warranty options based on window material and window series |
|
Provides options for replacement windows and new installation |
Limits product availability to showrooms, Pella dealers, and Lowe’s home improvement stores |
|
Has more than 90 years of experience in business |
Discloses minimal pricing information online |
Pella Window Types Available
Pella offers the following window types to meet most customers’ needs:
- Awning: These crank-operated windows swing outward by a hinge at the top of the frame. They provide excellent ventilation and, thanks to their design, can be opened to enjoy a rainy day without the concern of rainfall coming inside your home.
- Bay and Bow: Distinguished by their 3D shapes, these windows curve outward from the home and may have a box seat or ledge. Bay windows have a more angular shape, while bow windows are more curved.
- Casement: This window style has a hinge on the side and swings open to the left or right using a crank. These windows work best in hard-to-reach areas, such as over a kitchen sink or in a bathroom.
- Single-Hung: This classic window style is built with a movable bottom panel (or sash) while the top sash stays stationary. They are a safer option for ground-floor rooms.
- Double-Hung: These windows, typically found on higher floors, have a movable sash at the top and the bottom.
- Picture: These larger windows can serve as floor-to-ceiling accents. They offer abundant light and have added security since they cannot be opened.
- Sliding: These windows glide horizontally on a track, making them great options for tight spaces and areas like a patio or a porch.
- Specialty: Pella offers specialty wood window designs and functions beyond the typical window stylings.
- Custom Windows: These made-to-order Pella products are perfect for homeowners who want to add one-of-a-kind touches to their homes.
Pella Energy Efficiency
Energy-efficient windows can play a major role in your home’s energy use. According to the U.S. Department of Energy, 25% to 30% of heat loss can come from windows. With more energy-efficient windows, homeowners can reduce their utility bills over time.
Pella offers several window options that are Energy Star-certified, meaning they meet or exceed the energy efficiency guidelines set by the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA). Three of their product lines have been named on the Energy Star Most Efficient 2022 list of top efficient products: the Architect series, Lifestyle series, and 250 series.
The company offers a variety of energy-saving glass options for its products that are tailored to specific regions and climates. Each option includes a combination of low-E (or low-emissivity) glass and argon gas. Low-E glass uses a special coating that helps maintain your home’s internal temperatures by minimizing the effects of external temperatures. Argon gas, added between the panes, provides additional insulation by reducing heat or cold conduction.
The glass varieties also come in double-pane and triple-pane windows options, with triple-pane offering the highest energy-saving protection available. Homeowners can choose from the following glass offerings:
- Advanced Low-E Insulating Glass with Argon: These panes block 84% of the sun’s UV rays. This option works for many U.S. climates. The three-pane option offers 86% protection.
- SunDefense Low-E Insulating Glass with Argon: This option works well in hot, sunny climates since the panes protection increases to 94%. You can get added protection at 95% with the three-pane upgrade.
- AdvancedComfort Low-E Insulating Glass with Argon: Recommended for Northern U.S. climates, this option blocks 85% of UV rays with two panes and 87% with three panes.
- NaturalSun Low-E Insulating Glass with Argon: Homeowners in colder climates like the northern United States or Canada can warm their homes with this two-pane variety that offers a lower 69% of ultraviolet rays. The three-pane option offers a 73% block.
Pella Window Installation
Pella offers several convenient ways to begin your buying and installation process. Whether you are looking for in-person samples or would prefer to browse in the comfort of your own home, the company makes it convenient for prospective buyers to find the right products and start their installation.
Buying in Pella Showrooms
If you would like to see its catalog of products in person, you can visit one of the 200 in-person showrooms across the United States. Use the showcase locator on its website to find the showroom closest to you and schedule an appointment. Once you arrive, a Pella sales rep will guide you through the window options and help you select the best choice for your home. The showcase includes physical working samples, allowing you to experience the look and feel of your potential new windows.
Buying Through In-Home Consultation
Pella also offers two options for free in-home consultations. You can schedule a Pella expert to visit your home and review your replacement window options. During the 90-minute session, the salesperson will take measurements of your windows, show design and material options, and explain the installation process. You will be provided a free quote for your installation process at the end of the appointment.
Alternatively, homeowners can schedule a virtual consultation conducted over a video call. You would provide the expert with measurements and pictures for this consultation method. Besides that, the process would follow the same steps as the at-home consultation and include a free quote at the end.
Buying Online
For any do-it-yourself home improvement experts or anyone with a contractor in mind for their project, Pella offers the option to buy your windows directly from its website. You will be asked to select your window type, material choice, window measurements, glass options, and fixed or moving sash selections. Additional choices include interior and exterior colors, screen choices, grilles, hardware finish, and any Insynctive Technology smart security sensor options that can be added to the windows. Customers would then choose either to have the windows delivered to the job site or do a pickup from Pella’s closest warehouse.
Pella offers options for pocket window installations, which would replace windows in its existing window frame. This process takes less time but limits window shape choices since you would be installing the same size window. If you plan to replace the entire window, frame, and trim, you will select windows for a new construction project. These projects have additional costs and completion periods, but they offer the most window choices.
Installation Process
Once you have selected a Pella-certified installer, they will coordinate with you on your installation date and provide instructions on any prep work that needs to be completed. The process will be completed with a local Pella installer in your area. The crew lead will walk you through the entire process, provide an estimated completion time, and advise you of any issues that may arise.
You have the choice to stay for the process or leave to avoid any dust or noise during the installation. Once the entire installation is completed, you will be invited to review the installations and verify the completion of the project. The crew will also clean up after the installation.
Pella Pricing and Costs
Pella offers some pricing information for its online store. However, you may receive a different quote through your consultation. We have compiled cost estimates and available online pricing for each type of window product series.
Wood Windows
Wood windows provide a more traditional look typically found in classic homes. They are aluminum-clad to reinforce the exterior against the elements. These windows offer many customization options, allowing homeowners to create the perfect, one-of-a-kind look for their homes. The typical price for wood windows falls between $530 and $1,750.
Below are the wood window lines available at Pella:
- Pella Reserve Series: This elegant line features plenty of customization and intricate detailing. However, this collection is only available at local Pella showrooms.
- Pella Reserve Contemporary: Another series only available in the showrooms, these windows come in more contemporary designs and styles.
- Pella Architect Series: The collection offers timeless, classic options for your home.
- Pella Lifestyle Series: These windows provide traditional wood windows with added features, including energy efficiency and noise reduction.
Fiberglass Windows
Made from thread-like glass pieces, fiberglass offers both durability and strength. This material can withstand extreme temperatures and needs very little maintenance. The window selections in the Pella lines average between $560 and $800 on the online store.
The Pella Impervia series is the only fiberglass series offered at this window company:
- Pella Impervia Series: This series offers sleek designs that are resistant to corrosion and deterioration.
Vinyl Windows
Pella offers several vinyl window options for homeowners looking for cost-effective and durable options. The company uses this material for its specialty line of protective storm windows made for regions that experience severe weather like hurricanes. The vinyl windows average between $250 and $1,100 depending on the style and customizations, as well as whether they are specialty windows.
Below is a list of the company’s vinyl windows lines:
- Pella 250 Series: These low-maintenance windows are stronger than standard vinyl. Energy-efficient options are also available.
- Pella Encompass Series: This is the most cost-effective windows line. Homeowners can also select energy-saving options.
- Pella Hurricane Shield Series: These windows are designed to withstand hurricanes with shatter-resistant glass.
- Pella Defender Series: This line blocks almost 100% of UV rays. These windows also protect against storms and reduce noise.
These prices do not include any upgrades for exterior and interior colors, painting, stains, hardware, specialty glass or shapes, or other customized features. Window costs will also increase with the size and location of the windows.
Our Recommendation
As one of the most recognizable window manufacturers on the market, Pella has a reputation for high-quality products with excellent workmanship. Whether you are looking for large contemporary windows for your remodel or stylish awning windows for your new home, the company has an extensive catalog of quality windows that will suit your taste. However, remember that previous customers have had issues with customer service.
While searching for the best windows installer for your project, we encourage you to compare at least three companies to find the ideal company. Request a free quote or estimate for your home improvement project and compare the costs, lifetime warranty options, window styles, custom options, and availability.
Pella Windows FAQ
Does Pella Corporation sell any other products?
Yes, Pella also offers many doors available online, in its showrooms, and at retail home improvement chains like Lowe’s. The door options include front doors or entry doors, patio doors, sliding doors, and storm doors. Its catalog includes wood, vinyl, steel, and fiberglass offerings.
Where are Pella Windows made?
The Pella Corporation is based out of Pella, Iowa, but was originally founded in Des Moines, Iowa, in 1925. Pella Windows and Doors has 17 manufacturing sites throughout the United States and parts of Canada and 200 specialized showrooms throughout North America.
Are there any other types of Pella Windows available?
Pells does offer a line of ThermaStar windows exclusively through Lowe’s hardware stores and official Pella dealers. These durable vinyl windows are used for new installation only and offer energy-efficient options, including Low-E coating and argon gas in multi-pane options.
Do Pella Windows have a warranty?
Pella offers lifetime warranty coverage on its windows. However, the coverage varies among its products based on window frame material, product series, window shape, and other factors. We advise that you check the warranty for your Pella product for full details on the coverage.
How We Chose the Top Window Brands
We researched and analyzed dozens of windows manufacturers. Then, we crafted a rating system based on each brand’s standard product offerings and energy-efficient options for windows and doors.
We speak directly to a representative at each company to learn how the installation process with each provider works and determine how each brand personalizes its custom windows for each home. We also closely analyzed each company’s warranty options to ensure their product and labor guarantees match or exceed industry standards.
Other factors include the manufacturer’s years of experience and customer reputation. In addition, we analyzed the 100 most recent Google Reviews for each provider across various locations and branches.