"two winters later, I noticed drafts creeping in around the edges."
This is a pretty common issue with DIY window installs—usually comes down to insulation and sealing technique. Next time, try using low-expansion foam and quality flashing tape. Makes a huge difference in the long-term performance.
Yeah, drafts can be sneaky... I learned that the hard way after my first DIY window job. Thought I'd nailed it until winter rolled around and I felt those chilly breezes creeping in. Second time around, I took extra care with the foam and sealing tape like you mentioned, and it was night and day difference. Definitely worth spending a bit more time on prep and sealing—makes even budget-friendly windows feel way more premium.
"Definitely worth spending a bit more time on prep and sealing—makes even budget-friendly windows feel way more premium."
Couldn't agree more. But now I'm wondering...is the difference between Andersen 100 and Pella 250 really noticeable if you're meticulous with sealing? Feels like prep might matter more than brand at this price point. Thoughts?
If you're careful with sealing and prep, honestly, the difference between Andersen 100 and Pella 250 isn't huge. I've installed both—prep work mattered way more than brand. I'd pick whichever you can snag a better deal on.
Good point about prep work—makes sense that sealing properly would level the playing field. Did you notice any difference in ease of installation between the two, or were they pretty similar there too? I'm leaning toward Andersen but still on the fence...
Installed Andersen 100s last summer myself... wasn't too bad honestly. Haven't tried Pella, but Andersen's instructions were straightforward enough. If you're leaning that way, I'd say trust your gut—you'll probably be fine.
Did my Andersen 100s a couple years back, and yeah, instructions were pretty clear. One thing I'd add—make sure you double-check your measurements before ordering. I had one window opening slightly off-square (old house problems...), and it took some extra shimming to get it right. But overall, Andersen's been solid for me, no drafts or leaks yet. Haven't messed with Pella either, but Andersen's definitely DIY-friendly enough.
Yeah, Andersen 100s worked out pretty well for me too. I second the measuring thing—my openings were mostly square, but I still ended up needing a bit of extra caulk around one window to seal it tight. Haven't tried Pella myself, but my neighbor did and mentioned they were decent, though he found Andersen easier to install solo. Either way, seems like you can't really go wrong if you're careful with prep and measurements...
"Either way, seems like you can't really go wrong if you're careful with prep and measurements..."
That's generally true, but prep and measurements aren't always enough. I installed Pella 250s a couple years ago and found that even with careful measuring, the frames flexed more than I expected. Andersen's composite frames might hold shape better solo, but Pella's vinyl frames were lighter and easier to maneuver into tight spaces. If you're installing alone, lighter weight can make a big difference—just something to consider before committing.
"the frames flexed more than I expected."
Had a similar experience myself with the Pella 250s. They're definitely easier to handle solo, but that flexibility caught me off guard too—especially when trying to square them up in older window openings. Andersen's composite frames are sturdier, no doubt, but they're also heavier and can be a bit awkward if you're working alone or in tight spaces. If your home's older (like mine), you might find yourself wrestling a bit more with Andersen's rigid frames to get them seated properly.
Honestly, both options have their quirks. If you're comfortable shimming and adjusting as you go, the lighter vinyl frames might save you some headaches (and backaches). But if precision and rigidity are your top priorities, Andersen might edge out slightly ahead. Either way, sounds like you're already on the right track by doing your homework first...