Frequently Asked Questions

Do Andersen Windows Offer UV Protection?

Yes. Ordinary dual-pane glass lets 62% of UV light pass through. Our High-Performance™ Low-E glass cuts that down to 17% with virtually no effect on the clarity and color of the light.

With Low-E glass, if your thermostat is set at 70°, the temperature of the innermost glass pane won't drop below 57° even if it's 0° outside. In warm climates, Low-E glass works just as hard to keep your home cool. For extreme climates, we also offer High-Performance Sun™ glass for maximum UV protection and temperature control.


Return to top

How do I maintain my Andersen Windows and Doors?

All Andersen® windows and doors feature the Perma-Shield® system, which protects the window's exterior beautifully for decades.* It also eliminates the need to paint—and repaint.

The material used to make a frame determines a window's thickness, weight, and durability, and it also has a major impact on its thermal characteristics. The frame is also used in determining a window's U-Factor. Since the sash and frame represent from 10 to 30 percent of the total area of the window unit, the frame material will definitely influence the window performance.

Wood-Clad

We believe windows and patio doors should be made of wood, but exterior facings should be protected from the elements. That's why we manufacture wood-clad windows and patio doors with vinyl exteriors. They offer beauty, luxury and natural appeal while maintaining high standards of weather resistance with an extra surface that lowers their maintenance requirements. The interior wood allows you to retain an attractive paint or stain finish indoors. Our basement windows feature Fibrex® material, a wood/polymer composite for best results at ground-level.


Return to top

Is wood still a good option compared to Fibrex or vinyl?

Our wood interiors feature superb styling — with no visible finger joint seams. Natural wood provides structural stability and is one of the most effective insulators available. For added reliability we treat the frame and sash parts with wood preservative.

Andersen interiors bring warmth into your home as well as style with rich natural wood that you can stain or paint to enhance the decor of any room. Fine craftsmanship, elegant styling and precise detailing make the view of your windows as impressive as the view from them.


Return to top

Are Andersen windows ENERGY STAR® compliant?

Andersen is proud to be an ENERGY STAR® partner, offering energy efficient replacement windows and doors that help save on heating and cooling costs and create a comfortable home year-round. Our energy efficient windows and doors include High-Performance™ Low-E4® glass and optional High-Performance™ Low-E4® SmartSun™ glass, making it easy to save both money and energy.

We publish standard energy-efficiency performance ratings on all our products ratings that are consistently among the best in the industry. Homes with Andersen® windows and doors can dramatically help reduce their heating and cooling costs. These guidelines are based on the heat gain and loss of each product in various regions of the country.



ENERGY STAR®

ENERGY STAR is a joint program of the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency (EPA) and the Department of Energy that identifies and promotes energy efficient products in order to reduce carbon dioxide emissions. New ENERGY STAR qualified windows can help reduce your energy bill up to 15 percent. Estimated savings vary from region to region depending on current heating and cooling costs and are generally greatest where there are hot summers, cold winters or both. In addition, ENERGY STAR qualified windows and doors do more than just lower energy bills — they deliver more comfort, create less condensation, and protect your valuables from sun damage better than conventional clear-glass double-paned alternatives.

We're pleased to say that the vast majority of Andersen windows and patio doors meet or exceed ENERGY STAR criteria throughout the United States.

Visit energystar.gov to learn more about the ENERGY STAR Program.




National Fenestration Rating Council

The National Fenestration Rating Council® (NFRC) is a non-profit organization that provides fair, accurate and credible energy performance ratings for windows and doors. The best way to compare energy efficient windows and patio doors is to look at their NFRC labels.


Enery Star Climate Zones

Return to top

I've read the warranty, but how long will my windows *really* last?

We expect our products to live well past their warranty period. But kids still throw baseballs and even the most durable materials can wear out eventually. That's why we can provide replacement parts for our windows and doors, even some that were discontinued 50 years ago. Visit our Parts Catalog for a detailed list of what's available.

Window and Door Testing

To make sure that our windows and doors last* we put them through testing in the lab and the field that few other windows endure. Some are exposed to wind speeds up to 155 MPH. Others face sudden temperature changes from -20°F to 180°F.

*See Limited Warranty for details.


Return to top

How can I get rid of the condensation that forms on my window/patio door glass panes?

The answer varies, depending upon whether the condensation is on the Exterior Pane, the Interior Pane or Between the Panes.

EXTERIOR PANE

Condensation on the outside of your windows or patio doors may occur during spring and in the fall, usually when cool nights follow a warm day. It is a result of moisture in the air exceeding certain limits and the temperature of the glass falling below the dew point in the air. condensation on the exterior glass panes is a natural phenomenon, especially for energy-efficient High PerformanceTM insulating glass (currently the standard on most Andersen® products), which restricts the airflow between the panes of glass. This condensation will evaporate once the day warms. To receive a brochure about this phenomenon, go to our Care & Maintenance section.

INTERIOR PANE

On the edges or entire pane

Condensation on the inside of your windows is a result of too much moisture in the air of your home. This condition is common in new homes, where it may take months for the moisture from paint and fresh building materials to dissipate.

This condition is also common in winter. Humidity levels in winter months should not exceed 30-35%. To maintain these levels in  your home, you may want to:

To receive a brochure about this condition, go to our Care & Maintenance section.

Oval in center.

An oval condensation ring on the interior glass surface is an indicator that interior and exterior panes of glass have collapsed toward each other. You need to repair o replace the window sash or door panel. Please Contact Us to submit a product issue.

BETWEEN THE PANES

If you replace the replacement window sash or door panel yourself, you will find instructions in our Installation and Replacement section.

When the seals along the outer perimeter of glass fail and allow moisture to penetrate the space between panes of insulated glass, your window or door will appear cloudy or fogged. Please check and make sure the glass does not have chemicals or pollutants on the outside surface. Once you confirm that the condensation is between the panes, you will need to replace the window sash or door panel. Please Contact Us to submit a product issue. If you replace the replacement window sash or door panel yourself, you will find instructions in our Installation and Replacement section.


Return to top

What are the recommended procedures for finishing my Andersen® products?

Finishing, cleaning and maintenance instructions for your Andersen products may be included in the Installation Guides, on the last pages of the documents. See our Installation and Replacement section for the guides.


Return to top

Can scratched glass be repaired?

Typically, scratches in glass are the result of debris during construction or dirt on the glass. If care is not taken to lightly flush and remove the debris it could etch the glass surface resulting in a scratch. Andersen doesn't manufacture a product to remove glass scratches but there are companies that manufacture polishing compounds that remove scuffs, light scratches and deposits on glass that can't be cleaned with regular washing. As a guideline, if the scratch is deep enough to catch the edge of a fingernail, it's too deep to remove.

Sommer and Maca Industries offer a product called Rare Earth which is a cleaning compound for glass. You can purchase Rare Earth from many glass suppliers, or directly from Sommer and Maca Industries' sales department (1-800-323-9200 or 1-708-863-5446).. Follow directions carefully and heed all product warnings. Andersen is not responsible for damage caused by misuse of cerium oxide or other damage that could happen in trying to remove scratches.


Return to top

What is the best method for removing residue or other stubborn materials from glass?

There are a few recommended products and procedures for cleaning stubborn materials from glass.
IMPORTANT: Do not clean glass while it is exposed to direct sunlight.

Cleaning with soap and mineral spirits

  1. Apply mild soap, mild detergent, LEPTYNE® solvent, mineral spirits or naphtha solvents to glass either by spraying or using a clean, grit-free cloth or sponge saturated with cleaning solution.
    CAUTION: When using solvents, do not use too much solvent. Damage to the glazing or insulating unit seals can occur.
    After cleaning the glass with solvents or mineral spirits, immediately clean the frame with soap and water to prevent staining.
    Follow solvent manufacturer's directions on label for toxicity, handling and flammability warnings.
  2. Wipe the cleaning solutions on the glass in a circular motion, applying light to moderate pressure. Approximately three to five passes of the affected area may be required to remove the residue.
  3. Rinse the glass surface immediately with generous amounts of clean water, removing the cleaning solution from the glass surface.
  4. Using a squeegee or clean, lint-free dry cloth, remove water from the glass surface.
  5. If glass residue is still evident, repeat steps 1, 2, 3 and 4.

Cleaning with toothpaste

  1. Use a damp cloth and toothpaste for glue, pitch, and other less harsh contaminates.
  2. Apply toothpaste to damp cloth and buff circular until clean

Cleaning with polishing compounds

For harsher contaminants and scratches, there are polishing compounds on the market such as cerium oxide, which works well for reducing fine scratches and scuffmarks. Rare Earth can be purchased at most hardware stores, glass repair centers, or directly from the manufacturer, Sommer and Maca Industries' sales department (1-800-323-9200 or 1-708-863-5446). Follow directions carefully and heed all product warnings. Andersen is not responsible for damage caused by misuse of cerium oxide or other damage that could happen in trying to remove scratches.

"LEPTYNE" is a registered trademark of PPG Industries, Inc.

Return to top

How do I choose the right new windows for my home?

When thinking about replacement of your old windows, there are a number of factors you should consider to help make the best decision. Appearance, performance and durability - to meet your needs and preferences - are all important. A weighed balance of product quality, service and warranty add to the overall value you receive from your window replacement experience.


Return to top

What are the window frame and sash made of?

Sashes and frames are made of FibreX® material, a unique composite of wood fibers encapsulated by thermoplastic polymer. This "engineered" material is unique to Renewal by Andersen Window.


Return to top

Tell me how Fibrex material compares to other sash and frame materials? Thermal expansion? Stiffness? "Pressure resistance"? Thermal conductivity? Decay?

Fibrex material combines the strength, insulating capability, and stability similar to wood, with the low maintenance features of vinyl. This material is stronger and much more dimensionally stable than vinyl extrusions, yet is virtually impervious to rot or decay.


Return to top

What type of glass do you use?

High Performance LoE2 glass is standard in all Renewal by Andersen windows. This glass is double-pane, with argon-blend gas in the insulating space, and a special microscopically-thin metallic "silver"coating on the inside layer of the outside pane of glass. Low-conductivity stainless-steel spacers with dual sealants fuse the panes together to lock in the argon blended gas.


Return to top

Do you have the right style of window for my home?

Each window is custom manufactured to precisely fit the opening of the old windows in your home. Renewal by Andersen windows are available in double-hung, casement, gliding, awning and picture window styles and in combination to meet your home's look and style. Fibrex material is available in white, Sandtone, Terratone®, and can be painted any color you wish. An interior stainable pine veneer is available for the window sash and frame if you wish to match your new windows to existing interior wood finish.


Return to top

What is the energy efficiency of the whole window? May I see the NFRC* label for your window product?

*National Fenestration Rating Council, organization providing product ratings for the window industry. Entire window performance is measured by V-factor. The lower the V-factor, the better the insulating quality of the window.

The V-factor on Renewal by Andersen windows is typically 6 to 20% better than the comparable vinyl or woodframe window.
ALL Renewal by Andersen windows and doors display a NFRC label stating U-factor and Solar Heat Gain information for that particular window type. A Renewal Sales Consultant will be happy to detail V-factor for the specific window style you are considering.


Return to top

Are your windows Energy Star®* certified and labeled?

*Energy Star is a special program created by the V.S. Environmental Protection Agency and the Department of Energy to identify energy-saving products.

All Renewal by Andersen windows and doors carry the Energy Star certification label for all three temperature zones in the continental United States. To qualify, products must be 40% more efficient than common building codes, and reduce energy bills by at least J50/0.


Return to top

How can you assure me of the durability of your entire window? What about warranty?

A word about warranties
Be sure to obtain and carefully read and understand what exactly is covered by any product warranty and what is not covered by a warranty before you make a window purchase. Many window replacement operations claim a lifetime warranty, but the warranty frequently is very limited (5 to 7 years), and DOES NOT cover frame, sash, glass, and hardware problems, or installation problems that can affect window performance. Ask "what if' questions about each warranty you review and make sure the answer is clearly in print.

The unique combination of Fibrex material and High Performance LoE2 glass creates a very sturdy, durable window.

Renewal by Andersen windows use the same glass technology found in Andersen new construction windows, and carry the same TRANSFERABLE warranty ( 20 years on glass/l0 years on sash/frame ), PLUS a two year warranty on installation.


Return to top

What do I want in a replacement window?

This is a question for YOU to answer for yourself. Window replacement is a big investment, and one you'll live with day in and day out for as long as you own your home. Think about the importance of appearance, performance, and durability before you choose.


Return to top

What are California's tempered-glass requirements?

Hall's is required by law to put tempered glass into any window that we are replacing that would have to be tempered if this were a new home. These are the situations that we typically encounter that require tempered glass.

Showers/Tubs
Required for glass in walls for hot tubs, whirlpools, saunas, steam rooms, bathtubs and showers where the exposed edge
of the glass is less than 60" above a standing surface.
* Not required if there is an intervening wall or other barrier located between the door and the glass.

Near Doors
Required for glass adjacent to a door where the nearest exposed edge of the glass is within a 24" arc of either vertical
edge of the door in a closed position.
* Not required if the bottom exposed edge of the glass is 60" or more above a walking surface.

Close to Ground
All of these conditions must be met for tempering on an individual pane to be required:

 

Swimming Pools
All of these conditions must be met for tempering on an individual pane to be required:

 

Stairways/Landings
All of these conditions must be met for tempering on an individual pane to be required:


Return to top

Are your windows dual pane?

Yes.  All of the Andersen Windows that we sell our dual pane.  Most of the Andresen Windows come with multiple glass package options.  The efficient glass option that Andersen offers is the High Performance Low E 4 Smart Sun Glass.  When compared to ordinary dual pane glass, High Performance Low E 4 Smart Sun glass is 45% more energy-efficient in winter and 70% more efficient in summer.  Smart Sun glass also blocks 95% of harmful UV rays which helps reduce fading on your carpet, drapes, artwork and furniture.


Return to top

Do you sell Andersen parts?

Yes.  Whatever it is that you need for your existing Andersen Windows and Doors we can get for you.  We can simply supply these parts to you or we can come out and service your windows and doors for you.


Return to top

What do you have in stock?

As far as parts and pieces for Andersen Windows we don't stock very much at all.  Please call to check stock.  As for windows there are very few options.  Andersen does stock doors, but only in the most popular sizes and options.  Please call to check stock.


Return to top

Why does Hall's only sell Andersen?

We want to offer only the best products for our customers.  We have been selling Andersen Doors and Windows for over 25 years.  Over the years we have sold other products along with Andersen.  We've found over the years that Andersen products have passed the test of time.  Our customers are consistently over satisfied with the products that we install in their homes.


Return to top

Do Hall's installers work for Hall's?

Yes.  All of our window and door installers work for us.  When we install windows and doors for you all of our labor is backed by our 10 Year Workmanship Guarantee.  There are few items that we do use sub contractors for — painting / staining and stucco work.  When we include these services they are always on our contract and are also backed by our 10 Year Workmanship Guarantee.


Return to top

What does COE mean?

COE stands for Circle of Excellence.  In order to be part of the very exclusive COE program you have to have showroom, a factory trained and equipped service department and you must committed to the Andersen brand.  Because of our commitment we are able to pass on factory direct pricing to our customers.


Return to top

What happens if it rains on the day we've scheduled my installation?

We install windows all year long.  If it is raining on your installation day you have the option to reschedule.  We will still plan on coming out and attempt to install what we can.  It is very rare that we have to cancel an install because of inclement weather.  Please keep in mind that will not do anything that will jeopardize the integrity of the installation.


Return to top

What are the rating guidelines for a window/door to be eligible for the federal tax credit?

For a window or door to meet the guidelines for the Federal Tax Credit it has to have a U Value and SHGC of .30 or lower.


Return to top

Can I paint the exterior of my new windows/doors?

Yes you can paint the exterior of your windows.  Please request our painting guideline.


Return to top

How do I color match Andersen colors?

Sherman Williams paint stores carry Andersen Colors.  Please call and ask us for the paint formulas.


Return to top

What products do you recommend to clean glass?

Any glass cleaner will work, though ammonia-free formulas typically leave fewer streaks.


Return to top

What is the best way to keep my windows/doors lubricated?

Clean the track with glass cleaner.  After the track is dry, use a dry silicone lube and spray the track.  While the lube is wet, roll the operating panel several times over the track.


Return to top

What are California's window-egress requirements?

Egress is the term used to describe the building codes dealing with escape openings in the case of fire. New homes are required
to have one egress opening per bedroom that meets all of the following criteria for the clear opening of the window or door:

When we replace windows or doors in an existing home, we must take the following items into consideration:


Return to top