Get the App
Better experience on mobile
Discover why the Pella 350 Series vinyl replacement windows excel in energy efficiency, durability, and performance. With a CR Score of 72, double-pane glass, and top marks in beauty and defogging, they're a smart upgrade for any home. Explore specs, pros, cons, and buying tips for better comfort and savings.
Quick Pick: Pella 350 Series Vinyl Replacement Windows
CR Score: 72/100 | Price Range: $361–$1,057
Excellent energy efficiency (U-factor 0.29) and superior beauty ratings make this our top recommendation for reliable, affordable vinyl replacements. Perfect for boosting home comfort and cutting energy bills.
Upgrading your home's windows can transform energy efficiency, curb appeal, and indoor comfort. Among vinyl options, the Pella 350 Series stands out as a mid-range powerhouse, blending affordability with high performance. Priced between $361 and $1,057 depending on size and features, this double-pane window series earns a solid CR Score of 72 from rigorous independent testing.
Vinyl windows like the Pella 350 offer low maintenance, resistance to rot, and excellent insulation—key for climates with extreme weather. In this review, we'll break down its specs, lab-tested performance, pros and cons, and practical advice to help you decide if it's right for your next home project.
The Pella 350 Series is ENERGY STAR certified, ensuring it meets strict standards for energy conservation. Here's a quick specs overview:
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| Glass Type | Double-pane |
| U-factor (Insulation) | 0.29 (Excellent) |
| Solar Heat Gain Coefficient (SHGC) | 0.26 (Low heat gain) |
| Visible Transmittance (VT) | 0.50 (Good light transmission) |
| Air Leakage | 0.1 cfm/ft² (Minimal) |
| Frame Material | Durable vinyl |
| Price Range | $361–$1,057 |
| ENERGY STAR Certified | Yes |
These metrics highlight its thermal performance: a low U-factor means better heat retention in winter, while the SHGC blocks summer solar heat without darkening rooms excessively.
Our experts rigorously test windows like the Pella 350 for real-world durability. It shines in several areas but has room for improvement in others. Check out this comparison of its lab ratings against typical vinyl window benchmarks:
| Test Category | Pella 350 Rating | Industry Average | Notes |
|---|---|---|---|
| Beauty | Excellent | Good | Flawless finish, appealing design |
| Ease of Operation | Very Good | Good | Smooth sliders and cranks |
| Forced Entry Resistance | Fair | Fair | Basic security; add locks for more |
| Glass Defogging | Excellent | Good | Clear views in humid conditions |
| Insect Screen Durability | Fair | Fair | Functional but not premium |
| Low-E Coating | Excellent | Very Good | Superior UV and heat reflection |
| Sound Insulation | Fair | Fair | Adequate for suburbs, not urban |
| Stuck Slider Resistance | Fair | Good | Occasional maintenance needed |
| Uniformity of Deflection | Excellent | Good | No warping under pressure |
| Water/Air Leakage | Fair | Good | Seals well but test installations |
| Wind Resistance | Fair | Good | Suitable for moderate winds |
Predicted reliability is 4 out of 5, with owner satisfaction matching at 4 out of 5. These scores come from comprehensive tests simulating wind-driven rain, forced entry attempts, operational ease, and more.
A U-factor of 0.29 is impressive—lower numbers mean better insulation. Paired with a 0.26 SHGC, it reduces cooling costs by up to 20% in sunny regions (based on ENERGY STAR simulations). Visible transmittance at 0.50 lets in ample natural light, enhancing mood and reducing lighting needs.
Professional installation is crucial—DIY risks voiding warranties and compromising seals. Expect costs of $150-300 per window. Measure precisely: standard sizes fit most, but custom options add 20-30% to the price.
Maintenance is simple:
With proper care, expect 20+ years of service, outperforming wood frames in longevity.
Ideal for:
Skip if you need hurricane-rated strength or live in noisy urban areas—opt for higher-end series then.
At $361–$1,057, ROI comes quick via energy savings. A typical 10-window home upgrade ($5,000-8,000 installed) pays back in 5-7 years through 12% average bill cuts (DOE estimates). Plus, it can increase resale value by 70% of cost per window (Remodeling Magazine data).
Pair your new windows with essentials from our guides:
The U-factor measures heat loss: lower is better. The Pella 350's 0.29 rating means excellent insulation, ideal for cold climates.
Yes, its excellent defogging and Low-E coating handle moisture well, though fair water leakage scores emphasize pro installation.
Double-pane with these metrics rivals many triple-pane in mild climates, at a fraction of the cost.
Typically 20 years on glass, 10 on frame—confirm with your dealer for full transferability.
No, vinyl isn't paintable. Its factory finish resists fading for decades.
ENERGY STAR certification often unlocks federal tax credits up to $600 (check ENERGYSTAR.gov).
Word count: 1523. This review draws from expert lab tests to deliver actionable insights for your home improvement decisions.
