Renewal by Andersen vs. Marvin: Which Is Better?

You're replacing windows, and two names keep coming up: Renewal by Andersen and Marvin. Both have strong reputations. Both offer high-quality products. So how do you choose?

That's the question homeowners ask us all the time, and it's a fair one. The two companies look similar on the surface, but they operate very differently. The right choice isn't about which brand is “better.” It's about which approach fits your home, your priorities, and the experience you want.

Here's what we can tell you upfront: both Renewal by Andersen and Marvin make highly regarded windows. This article isn't about declaring a winner. It's about helping you understand the real differences so you can make a confident, informed decision.

In the sections below, we'll walk through the key comparison points: frame material, energy efficiency, warranty coverage, and installation process. We'll also give you a clear framework for deciding which company makes more sense for your specific situation.

How Should You Compare Window Companies?

There’s a lot to consider when it’s time to replace your windows. You’ll compare costs, material quality, durability, energy efficiency, warranty coverage, installation process and service, customization options, and the company’s reputation.

What Do Renewal by Andersen and Marvin Offer?

Renewal by Andersen focuses on window and door replacement in existing homes with Acclaim® replacement windows, Acclaim Impact replacement windows, Ensemble® entry doors, and Andersen® patio doors.

Marvin makes windows for new construction and replacement. Their window replacement service is called Infinity® by Marvin®. You can either choose to work with this replacement service or go through their dealer network of retailers.

For the purposes of this article and for comparing apples to apples, we will compare Renewal by Andersen to Infinity by Marvin.

What's the difference between Fibrex^® material and Ultrex® fiberglass?

Frame material affects durability, maintenance, and energy efficiency. The options available across the market each come with their own unique pros and cons, which means you’ll need to do some research to identify your best options and which companies offer what you’re looking for.

Material is actually one of the bigger differences between the two companies.

Renewal by Andersen manufactures Acclaim^® and Acclaim^® Impact windows that are made of Fibrex® material, which is 2x stronger than vinyl. It’s a composite made of reclaimed wood fiber and thermoplastic polymer that’s fused together. Fibrex material offers the strength and insulating value of wood with the low maintenance features of vinyl. Our Acclaim windows also have a real wood veneer interior option in oak, maple, and pine.

For entry doors, Renewal by Andersen uses a bonded dual-composite frame with fiberglass and Fibrex material.

Infinity^® by Marvin^® windows are built with their proprietary Ultrex® fiberglass material. Fiberglass is very strong and low maintenance. You can also add faux wood interiors, which are made to look like wood but don't require maintenance.

If low maintenance and long-term durability are priorities, Fibrex composite material and fiberglass are both considered good options. If you want the warmth and character of a wood interior, Renewal by Andersen® Acclaim windows are a good option.

If you want a low-maintenance interior that looks like wood but isn’t, Marvin’s lineup might be the choice for you.

Which company offers better energy efficiency, Renewal by Andersen or Marvin?

Consider this: ENERGY STAR® certified windows can save an average of 13% on energy bills each year. So it’s important to consider energy efficiency when replacing your windows.

Renewal by Andersen and Marvin both offer glass options for hot and cold climates, including insulating glass and low-emissivity (Low-E) coatings that limit heat transfer and help filter harmful UV rays. Both companies offer windows with options that can meet or exceed ENERGY STAR performance criteria in all climate zones. Either company is a solid choice for energy efficiency.

How do Renewal by Andersen and Marvin's warranties compare?

Warranty terms are one of the most overlooked parts of a window purchase, but it’s one of the most important. If something goes wrong, you want to know you can rely on a solid warranty.

Renewal by Andersen offers limited transferable warranties that cover 20 years on standard glass, 10 years on non-glass components, and two years on installation. The limited warranty is fully transferable to a subsequent homeowner, which can be a meaningful selling point if you plan to sell your home.

Marvin’s Infinity^® line includes a limited lifetime warranty for the original owner-occupant of the home. If the home is sold or the original owner no longer occupies the home, the lifetime coverage ends and the remaining balance of Marvin's transferable 10/20 Limited Warranty applies. Under that warranty, non-glass components (including most hardware) and the fiberglass exterior finish are covered for 10 years from the original purchase date, while standard insulating glass is covered for 20 years from the original purchase date.

Another significant difference is that installation is covered by a separate warranty through Marvin’s partner network. This could mean you’d be juggling multiple warranties, and installation warranty terms may vary by installer.

It’s important to understand what matters most for you in a warranty and know what you’ll get before you commit to a company and sign on the dotted line. Make sure you ask these questions.

How does the installation process differ between Renewal by Andersen and Marvin?

Marvin sells its products through a network of Certified Installing Retailers and independent dealers. Their Infinity® division has full-service replacement. Renewal by Andersen® products are sold exclusively through our local full-service Renewal by Andersen retailers.

Both companies start with a design consultation. Both measure your home’s current openings and send them back to their factories to custom-build the product for your home. And both use their own trained installers to take care of the whole installation process.

Both Renewal by Andersen and Infinity® by Marvin® have installation processes that offer insert replacement and full-frame replacement options.

A full frame replacement involves the full removal of the old window frame, down to the rough opening or structure of the wall. It may involve removing all of the existing trim. A full frame replacement will yield the most glass area and clear opening but involves more installation work.

An insert window leaves the existing window frame and/or trim in place, but will usually result in less clear opening space and less glass area. This is usually the better choice for homes where completely removing the old window would be too intrusive, and a smaller glass area is acceptable.

Which Window Company Is Right for You?

The honest answer is that it depends on what you value most. Here's a practical way to think about it.

Renewal by Andersen may be the better fit if:

• You like the modern, clean look of Fibrex® composite material
• You want the character and warmth of a real wood interior (again, this is optional)
• You want a limited warranty that covers both product and installation, and is fully transferable to the next homeowner
• You want the same quality installation, no matter where you are

Marvin may be the better fit if:

• You want a low-maintenance interior that looks like wood but isn’t
• You don’t mind potentially juggling multiple warranties
• You don’t want or need a fully transferable lifetime warranty
• Their local independent partner network has strong reviews in your area

Both companies have earned strong reputations. The decision comes down to your priorities, not a universal ranking.