Not all homes are the same. That’s why Andersen offers several window and door collections. Each collection is made from different materials and in different styles. Even though there are similarities there are also differences that make some more suitable for some homes (and budgets) than others. We’re comparing two of Andersen’s most popular collections for North Texans in this Andersen E-Series vs 400 Series Windows and Doors Review.
We’re going over lots of detail in this post, feel free to use the links below to skip ahead to a particular section.
Download brochures for each product series on our Andersen Windows pages:
When we talk about window and door materials we’re usually referring to the primary materials used in the frames and sash or slabs. Of course, these aren’t the only materials used in the product’s construction but they are the primary materials.
Wood is one of the most expensive materials available for window and door frames. This material also requires regular maintenance in order to last and to maximize energy performance. Manufacturers use exterior claddings for extra protection to wood products. Cladding increases the protection of the wood interior and reduces the amount of maintenance typically required for wood windows.
E-Series products have a wood interior and aluminum exterior. The aluminum exterior is extremely durable and highly customizable. The E-Series is also available in multiple interior wood options.
400 Series products have a wood interior and vinyl exterior. Vinyl is one of the most popular materials at the moment because it is low-maintenance and inexpensive. 400 Series windows are only available with pine wood interiors while the 400 Series doors are available in pine, maple, or oak.
E-Series |
400 Series |
Frame Construction: Wood protected by aluminum exterior Interior Wood Species: 10 options |
Frame Construction: Wood protected by vinyl exterior Interior Wood Species: Pine, Maple (Doors), Oak (Doors) |
Color is an important feature for windows. If you have an idea of what color you’d like for your windows will help narrow down your product options. As you can see in the table below, the Andersen E-Series windows are available in significantly more color options than the 400 Series.
Many window and door companies offer few color options, fortunately Andersen offers beautiful options for both E-Series and 400 Series products.
The colors listed in the images below include all of the E-Series’ color options, find the 400 Series color options among them.
400 Series Window Interior Options:
400 Series Door Interior Options:
400 Series Window Exterior Color Options:
400 Series Door Exterior Color Options:
E-Series |
400 Series |
Factory-Finished Stain Options: 9 options Painted Interiors: 14 options Exterior Colors: 50 standard colors + 7 anodized finishes
|
Window Painted Interiors: 3 options Window Exterior Colors: 7 options Door Painted Interiors: 1 option Door Exterior Colors: 4 options |
Window and door styles typically refer to operation styles or in other words, they describe how the door opens (if it opens at all).
The E-Series offers windows in 10 operating styles compared to 8 in the 400 Series.
E-Series Windows |
400 Series Windows |
Operating Styles: 10
|
Operating Styles: 8
|
The E-Series offers windows in 10 operating styles compared to 8 in the 400 Series.
E-Series Doors |
400 Series Doors |
Styles: 3
|
Styles: 2
|
Hardware styles and finishes are also an important choice. This choice is especially important for people who frequently open their windows and those thinking about aging in place–some hardware is easier to operate than others.
Different styles of windows require particular types of hardware. To learn about specific hardware options available for windows in each series please visit individual product pages.
E-Series hardware options are available in more finishes while the 400-Series offers lots of lift options for double-hung windows.
E-Series Windows |
400 Series Windows |
Finishes: 10
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Standard Finishes: 4
Estate Finishes: 8
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Andersen makes the same hardware options available to both E-Series and 400 Series doors.
E-Series & 400 Series Doors |
Finishes: 12 Styles: 8
|
Windows can be a major investment and having the security of a good warranty makes it even better. When it comes to warranties details matter that’s why we’ve included links to Andersen’s warranties for each series below.
Andersen’s warranty details specific coverage for individual parts of the product as well as the process for filing a claim. Homeowners are responsible for contacting manufacturers directly for warranty problems but if you’re unsure of the problem or coverage your window dealer may be able to help you navigate the process.
E-Series |
400 Series |
Manufacturer’s Windows & Doors Warranty: Owner-2-Owner Limited Warranty↗ |
Manufacturer’s Windows & Doors Warranty: Owner-2-Owner Limited Warranty↗ |
Andersen’s E-Series and 400 Series are both great options and we’re not just saying that! If you’re looking for something very special that can be customized to your unique needs choose the E-Series. Be aware that E-Series products are typically more expensive than 400 Series products.
Windows in the 400 Series are made for homeowners who want real wood windows at a more affordable price. Since 400 Series windows have vinyl exteriors, they are less expensive than E-Series windows but they do have customization limitations. Compared to other vinyl or wood options, the 400 Series is a great compromise for overall quality, customization, and price.
To learn more about each of these products explore our product pages.
We offer window and door sales and installation services to homeowners in North Texas, give us a call or fill out a form to schedule your free in-home or virtual consultation.
If you're looking for options and customizability Andersen's E-Series has got you covered. This series provides endless options with over 9 window styles and over 50 color options. In this series, you'll find window styles you can't get in Andersen's other window series. We'll go over all of this and more in this article.
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