Two of the pricier quotes we have gotten thus far have come from Champion Windows and Renewal by Andersen.
Be sure to see the Wacky Window Woman Price Comparison Chart to see how the larger, well-known Replacement Window Companies in central Ohio stack up against each other.
Are Renewal by Andersen Windows worth the price?
Design Consultant, “Rob” from Renewal by Andersen came into our home to woo us with his window and all the magical features of how they are manufactured. He hit hard on the fact that his window was much more than a traditional vinyl window. He stated that vinyl windows are weak and that their Fibrex material, which is what they use in lieu of vinyl, is comprised of 60% reclaimed wood fiber blended with 40% polymer. This material makes the Andersen window extremely heavy compared to the vinyl windows I had seen the others bring into my home.
“Rob” also explained that they fill the space between the two panes of glass with argon gas, but unlike the other companies that drill a hole into the window to extract air and fill with argon, Renewal by Andersen performs this process in a argon gas filled chamber to ensure they get all the air out from between the two panes of glass.
He also spoke of their 20-year warranty and said that if anyone else had been touting that they are offering a true-lifetime warranty, to not believe it. “Rob” stated that Renewal by Andersen was the only company that warranted the argon gas if it were to leak.
He basically said, and I agree, that he doesn’t really even compare to a traditional Vinyl Window as they are manufactured differently and most definitely are not in the same price point. They have done a great job of marketing and advertising their product as being the best, as long as you are willing to spend the big bucks.
Renewal by Andersen talks a lot about their Fibrex material, claiming it’s far superior to vinyl. And sure, the frame matters—but let’s not forget the real MVP of energy efficiency: the glass.
It’s actually the Low-E coatings and argon gas fills that do most of the heavy lifting when it comes to keeping your home comfortable and your energy bills in check. The frame—whether it’s Fibrex, vinyl, wood, or unobtanium—isn’t the main player in stopping heat loss or keeping out the cold. It’s like praising the picture frame for the quality of the artwork inside.
So while Fibrex may be a solid, durable choice, if you’re comparing windows, don’t get too caught up in the frame material alone. Pay close attention to what’s in the glass unit itself—that’s where the real performance happens.
Are Champion Windows Expensive in Columbus, Ohio?
“Charlie” arrived with his clipboard ready to give us his best pitch on why we should purchase Champion Windows. We had some small-talk in the beginning and he asked me to fill out a basic questionnaire to get my name, email and address. He did the required walk-about to measure the windows and confirm how many of them we wanted to replace, twelve in total. Ten are 3′ x 5′, one measures 2′ x 3′ and then one stationary that measures 48″ x 22″.
In his ‘kit’ he had samples of the frame so he could show us how they manufacture the frame and sash and then also to help me understand the profile and what they would look like on the exterior of my home. Champion only sells triple pane. Triple pane windows often require deeper window frames to accommodate the extra glass and spacers. So if you’re replacing double pane with triple pane, the existing window frame has to be compatible — or it might need to be modified or replaced.
Initially, I was bothered by the fact that when replacing my builder-grade windows with replacement windows, I was losing glass space and also, the windows would be thicker, so they would stick out a bit on the exterior. However, once the new windows are installed, you are hardly notice. Also, in some cases if you have blinds that fit inside the window, you may have to replace those. This could be a great thing, if you’ve needed an excuse to get new window treatments or it could be considered just an additional expense.
“Charlie” also was one of the few who took the time to do the Heat Lamp demonstration. Some do this and make a show out of it and others don’t bother. They plug in a heat lamp and let it warm up. Then they place a single pane, double pane, double pane with Low-E, a double pane with Low-E and Argon Gas and then finally Champion also demonstrated how the Triple pane with Low-E and Argon Gas filled insulated unit allowed the least amount of heat through. This means keeping the heat out in the Summer and keeping the heat inside during the Winter months.
Are Triple Pane Windows better than Double Pane Windows
Champion only offers a Triple Pane Window. Renewal by Andersen offers it as an option, which means it will cost you more, but is triple pane worth it if you live in central Ohio?
Triple pane windows come with several solid benefits, especially if you’re looking to boost comfort, energy efficiency, or noise control in your home. Here’s a breakdown of the main perks:
- Better Energy Efficiency/heating and cooling bills: The extra pane and added gas layers (usually argon or krypton) improve insulation. Higher R-value / Lower U-factor: They retain indoor temperatures better, meaning your HVAC system works less.
- Improved Comfort – Less temperature fluctuation near windows — rooms stay more consistent in both summer and winter. No cold drafts from window glass during winter.
- Enhanced Soundproofing – The extra pane and two air/gas gaps significantly reduce outside noise. Great if you live near busy roads, airports, or loud neighbors.
- Reduced Condensation – The interior glass stays warmer, reducing the chance of condensation or frost forming on the inside in cold weather.
- Increased Home Value – Seen as an energy-efficient upgrade — could boost your home’s resale value. May also qualify for energy-efficiency rebates or tax credits, depending on your location.
- Better Security – That third pane makes it harder to break through the window, adding a bit of extra protection against break-ins.
Are Triple Pane Windows Worth it?
👎 Downsides to Keep in Mind:
- Higher cost (usually 10–30% more than double pane).
- Heavier weight (can require stronger frames or modifications).
- Diminishing returns in mild climates — triple pane is most valuable in very cold or very hot areas.
If you live in central Ohio, that many years we don’t experience the extreme weather conditions that people in Minnesota or Arizona might experience. However, the cold winters + hot, humid summers + big seasonal swings do mean that energy-efficient upgrades (like triple pane windows) can make a difference, especially if:
-You’re sensitive to temperature or noise
-Your current windows are old or drafty
-You want to lower heating/cooling bills
Depending on where you live in Ohio – like up by Lake Erie as maybe compared to Cincinnati, triple pane windows might be overkill, but only you can gauge what is important to you.
Champion Windows Vs. Renewal by Andersen – who has the best warranty?
Renewal by Andersen offers a fully transferable limited warranty that includes:
-20 years on glass and Fibrex® material components
-10 years on non-glass components like locks, hinges, and weatherstripping
-2 years on installation
This warranty covers parts, labor, and installation services, and is transferable to new homeowners, which can enhance the resale value of your home .
Champion Windows provides a Limited Lifetime Warranty that covers:
- Parts, labor, and installation
- Accidental damage, such as broken glass
This warranty can be transferred one time to the next homeowner and will remain in effect for the first 12-months. Original Homeowner must inform Champion of the Sale within 30 days and inform them of the new owner’s name.
Renewal by Andersen and Champion Windows Columbus Ohio – Who offers the best Value?
These two companies both offer something a bit different than the rest on the list. But, their boutique offerings come with a hefty price tag.
If you like the idea of Triple Pane Glass and feel like it’s the best option for you, then definately consider Champion Windows or even McCloud Window’s Mezzo Window which is their triple pane verison. It’s less costly than the Champion Window.
If you are convinced that Vinyl Replacement Windows are not for you, then you might want to further explore Renewal by Andersen as an option for you. Renewal by Andersen is the most expensive quote I’ve received thus far at $34,376. Champion’s quote for my window project of twelve-windows in their triple pane was $19,304.
If both quotes feel like too much for your budget, then be sure to check out the Wacky Window Woman Price Comparison Chart to see how Replacement Window companies in Columbus, Ohio stack up against each other.
