Not every window opening needs to be rectangular. Andersen specialty windows use distinctive fixed shapes to add architectural character, bring light into unusual spaces, complement rooflines, or create a focal point within a larger window arrangement.
Depending on the product line, specialty shapes can include circles, half circles, quarter circles, ovals, triangles, trapezoids, pentagons, and other geometric forms. They can be installed individually or combined with picture and operating windows to create a more customized composition.
Andersen’s current specialty-window options are concentrated in 100 Series, 400 Series, and A-Series. E-Series specialty shape windows are no longer available to order, although Andersen continues to provide applicable support for existing products. This guide focuses on the current choices available to Hampton Roads homeowners.
What Is a Specialty Window?
A specialty window is a non-standard window shape used primarily for architectural design and natural light. Most specialty windows are fixed rather than operable, which means they do not open for ventilation.
Their purpose is usually different from that of a double-hung, casement, or gliding window. Instead of serving as the room’s primary source of ventilation, a specialty window can fill an unusual wall opening, follow the shape of a roofline, add daylight above another window, or create a distinctive visual feature.
Common Andersen Specialty Window Shapes
Available shapes vary by Andersen series and product dimensions, but the specialty category includes a wide range of curved and angular designs.
- Circle windows: Round fixed windows that can create a strong architectural focal point.
- Half-circle windows: A semicircular shape commonly used above doors, picture windows, or groups of operating windows.
- Quarter-circle windows: A curved shape that can be used individually or paired to complement larger window arrangements.
- Oval windows: A softer elongated shape suited to decorative applications and smaller architectural accents.
- Triangle windows: Angular fixed glass that can follow sloped ceilings, gables, and rooflines.
- Trapezoid windows: Four-sided shapes with angled edges that work well in contemporary designs and beneath sloping rooflines.
- Pentagon and other polygon shapes: Multi-sided fixed windows that can fill distinctive architectural openings.
The exact shape, size, grille, glass, and finish options depend on the selected Andersen series. A specific opening should therefore be matched to the current product specifications rather than assuming every shape is available in every line.
Why Choose a Specialty Window?
Add Architectural Character
Specialty windows can turn an otherwise ordinary wall or gable into a distinctive design feature. Curved shapes can soften an elevation, while triangles and trapezoids can reinforce modern geometry or follow the lines of the roof.
Bring Light Into Difficult Spaces
Because many specialty windows are fixed, they can be placed in locations where regular operation is unnecessary. This makes them useful for stairwells, vaulted rooms, high walls, entry areas, and other spaces where the goal is daylight rather than ventilation.
Work With Rooflines and Vaulted Ceilings
Angular specialty shapes can follow sloped architectural lines that conventional rectangular windows cannot. This can help use more of the available wall area for glass while keeping the window design visually connected to the structure.
Create Custom Window Combinations
Specialty shapes can be positioned above or beside rectangular windows to create a larger architectural composition. A half circle above a picture window, for example, produces a very different appearance from the picture window alone.
Where Do Specialty Windows Work Best?
- Gables: Triangles, trapezoids, and other angular shapes can follow rooflines and add light high on the wall.
- Vaulted rooms: Specialty windows can fill otherwise unused wall space beneath sloped ceilings.
- Entryways: Curved or geometric fixed glass can create a focal point above or near the front entrance.
- Stairwells: Fixed shapes can add daylight where an operable window may be difficult to reach.
- Living rooms: Specialty shapes can be combined with picture or operating windows to create a larger feature wall.
- Architectural renovations: A distinctive shape can preserve or reinforce the design character of the home.
Which Andersen Series Offer Specialty Windows?
| Series | Primary Construction | High-Level Position |
|---|---|---|
| 100 Series | Fibrex® composite interior and exterior | Value-oriented composite specialty shapes |
| 400 Series | Wood interior with protective exterior cladding | Versatile wood-interior specialty options |
| A-Series | Wood interior / fiberglass & Fibrex® composite exterior | Architectural and performance-focused specialty shapes |
These three series provide the current Andersen specialty-window choices relevant to new orders. E-Series specialty shape windows were previously available, but Andersen currently states that they are no longer available to order.
100 Series Specialty Windows
The 100 Series brings Andersen specialty shapes into its Fibrex composite product line. Fibrex material is used on both the interior and exterior, making the series a useful option for homeowners who want a distinctive fixed shape without a natural wood interior.
The 100 Series can also coordinate specialty windows with 100 Series picture, hung, casement, awning, and gliding windows. This makes it possible to build a consistent composite-window package while introducing curved or angular accents where the architecture calls for them.
- Consider 100 Series when: you want Fibrex composite construction and a more streamlined approach to specialty-window design.
400 Series Specialty Windows
The 400 Series combines a wood interior with protective exterior cladding and offers specialty shapes that can coordinate with Andersen’s broad 400 Series window lineup.
For homeowners already considering 400 Series double-hung, casement, awning, gliding, picture, or bay and bow windows, a 400 Series specialty shape can help maintain consistent materials, colors, grilles, and interior finishes across the project.
- Consider 400 Series when: you want a wood-interior specialty window with broad versatility and coordination with other 400 Series products.
A-Series Specialty Windows
A-Series is part of Andersen’s Architectural Collection and is particularly well suited to projects where specialty shapes are being used to reinforce a specific architectural style.
The series combines wood interiors with fiberglass and Fibrex composite exterior protection and emphasizes historically informed proportions, profiles, and design details. A-Series specialty windows can coordinate with A-Series double-hung, casement, awning, and picture windows.
- Consider A-Series when: architectural authenticity, premium wood interiors, performance, and coordinated specialty shapes are important to the project.
What Happened to E-Series Specialty Windows?
Andersen previously offered E-Series specialty shape windows, but the manufacturer currently states that E-Series specialty shape windows are no longer available to order.
That distinction matters when researching older Andersen projects or online information, because homeowners may still encounter photos, specifications, or references to E-Series specialty shapes. Existing products may still qualify for applicable service, replacement parts, and warranty support, but they should not be presented as a current new-order specialty-window option.
For a new specialty-window project, focus on the shapes and configurations currently offered through 100 Series, 400 Series, and A-Series.
Curved vs. Angular Specialty Windows
| Design Direction | Examples | Typical Effect |
|---|---|---|
| Curved | Circle, half circle, quarter circle, oval | Softer architectural lines and decorative focal points |
| Angular | Triangle, trapezoid, pentagon and other polygons | Follows rooflines and creates stronger geometric character |
Curved shapes often work well with traditional or transitional architecture, while angular windows can be especially effective beneath gables or in contemporary designs. These are not strict rules—the surrounding windows, grille pattern, trim, siding, roofline, and overall architecture matter more than the shape by itself.
Specialty Windows and Picture Windows
Specialty and picture windows are both generally fixed, but they serve different design roles. A picture window is typically rectangular and emphasizes a broad, straightforward view. A specialty window uses a non-standard shape to respond to the architecture or add visual interest.
The two can also work together. A half-circle specialty window above a rectangular picture window can extend the glass area upward and create a more dramatic composition. Angular specialty windows can similarly be arranged around rectangular fixed or operating units to follow a roofline.
For homeowners focused primarily on large rectangular fixed glass, our Guide to Andersen Picture Windows provides a closer look at that category. If you’ve already decided on a fixed rectangular window and want to compare Andersen series, materials, and customization, see our Andersen Picture Window Series & Product Options guide.
Can Specialty Windows Be Combined With Operating Windows?
Yes. Specialty shapes are frequently used as part of a larger arrangement that includes windows that open for ventilation.
- Above double-hung windows: A curved or angular fixed shape can add height and architectural detail while the windows below provide ventilation.
- Above or beside casement windows: Specialty fixed glass can expand the composition while casements provide crank-operated airflow.
- With picture windows: Combine specialty and rectangular fixed glass when the goal is natural light and a larger architectural feature.
- In multi-window walls: Mix fixed shapes and operating units to follow rooflines or fill a larger custom opening.
When combining windows, alignment, grille patterns, frame profiles, colors, and interior finishes should be planned together so the group reads as one intentional design.
Specialty Window Materials
The current Andersen specialty lineup provides three distinct material approaches.
- 100 Series: Fibrex composite on the interior and exterior.
- 400 Series: Wood interior with protective exterior cladding.
- A-Series: Wood interior with fiberglass and Fibrex composite exterior protection.
This gives homeowners a choice between a composite interior and premium wood-interior products. Material selection can often narrow the series before individual shapes and design options are compared.
Glass Options for Specialty Windows
Glass is particularly important in specialty windows placed high on a wall or in areas receiving significant direct sunlight. Andersen offers Low-E and other glass options depending on the series and configuration.
The best glass package depends on the window’s size, orientation, amount of direct sun, surrounding shade, exposure, and performance goals. Because specialty windows can be difficult to reach after installation, comfort and solar-control considerations should be addressed during product selection rather than treated as an afterthought.
Grilles and Specialty Shapes
Grilles can dramatically change the character of a specialty window. A half circle with a radial grille pattern creates a very different look from the same shape with uninterrupted glass.
When specialty windows are combined with rectangular units, grille alignment becomes especially important. The pattern should coordinate with the windows below or beside the specialty shape and support the architecture rather than making the group feel visually disconnected.
Available grille patterns vary by series and shape, so the complete combination should be reviewed before finalizing the design.
Are Specialty Windows Energy Efficient?
Most specialty windows are fixed, which gives them strong energy-performance potential because they do not require moving sash connections or operating hardware. Actual performance still depends on the series, glass package, size, shape, installation, orientation, and exposure.
Unusual shapes also make accurate manufacturing and installation especially important. Proper sizing, flashing, sealing, and finishing help the window perform as intended and integrate correctly with the surrounding wall.
What Should Hampton Roads Homeowners Consider?
Specialty windows can be an effective way to add daylight and architectural character to Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads homes, particularly in gables, vaulted rooms, stairwells, and entry areas.
Local heat, humidity, coastal air, wind-driven rain, seasonal storms, and the home’s individual exposure should be considered when selecting the series, glass, and installation approach.
For specialty windows placed high on an elevation or in a more exposed portion of the home, reviewing the exact product performance specifications and installation requirements is especially important.
How Much Do Andersen Specialty Windows Cost?
Pricing varies substantially because specialty windows are defined by non-standard shapes and often involve custom dimensions or more complex installation.
Series, shape, dimensions, glass, colors, interior wood and finish, grilles, surrounding trim, installation height, access, structural conditions, and whether the specialty unit is part of a larger window combination can all affect the final cost.
The most useful comparison is to identify the required shape first and then compare the current Andersen series that can produce that design. This avoids comparing product lines that do not actually offer the needed configuration.
Quick Guide: Which Andersen Specialty Window Should I Consider?
| If Your Priority Is… | Start By Comparing… |
|---|---|
| Fibrex composite construction | 100 Series specialty windows |
| Wood interior and broad versatility | 400 Series specialty windows |
| Architectural authenticity and performance | A-Series specialty windows |
| A curved architectural accent | Circle, half-circle, quarter-circle or oval options |
| Following a sloped roofline | Triangle, trapezoid or other angular shapes |
| Adding light without ventilation | Fixed specialty shapes |
What We Recommend Comparing in the Showroom
Specialty windows are highly visual products, so shape and finish decisions are easier when they are considered alongside the home’s other windows and exterior materials.
- Shape: Compare curved and angular designs against the roofline and architecture.
- Series materials: Compare Fibrex composite with the wood interiors offered by 400 Series and A-Series.
- Frame profiles: Look at how the specialty window will coordinate with adjacent picture or operating windows.
- Glass: Choose the glass package based on orientation, size, height, and exposure.
- Grilles: Compare grille patterns both within the specialty shape and across the complete window group.
- Interior and exterior finishes: Coordinate the specialty unit with trim, siding, roofing, millwork, and surrounding windows.
- Complete installation: Consider access, flashing, trim, and structural requirements, especially for high or unusually shaped openings.
Andersen Specialty Window FAQs
Which Andersen series currently offer specialty windows?
Andersen’s current specialty-window options are available through 100 Series, 400 Series, and A-Series.
Does Andersen still offer E-Series specialty shape windows?
No. Andersen currently states that E-Series specialty shape windows are no longer available to order, although support may remain available for existing products.
Do Andersen specialty windows open?
Most specialty windows are fixed and designed for natural light and architectural character rather than ventilation.
What shapes are available in Andersen specialty windows?
Depending on the series, options can include circles, half circles, quarter circles, ovals, triangles, trapezoids, pentagons, and other geometric shapes.
Can specialty windows be combined with regular windows?
Yes. Specialty shapes can be combined with picture, double-hung, casement, and other windows to create larger architectural compositions.
Which Andersen specialty series uses Fibrex composite inside and out?
The 100 Series uses Fibrex composite material on both the interior and exterior.
Which Andersen specialty windows have wood interiors?
The 400 Series and A-Series specialty windows provide wood-interior options.
Are specialty windows good for gables and vaulted ceilings?
Yes. Angular specialty shapes can follow sloped rooflines and fill wall areas that conventional rectangular windows may not use effectively.
Compare Andersen Specialty Windows at Better View Windows & More
Better View Windows & More helps homeowners throughout Virginia Beach and Hampton Roads compare specialty windows as part of the home’s complete window design. We’ll help you evaluate shapes, materials, glass, grilles, colors, interior finishes, window combinations, performance, and installation requirements.
Visit our Virginia Beach showroom to compare replacement window options in person. If you’ve already narrowed down the shape you want, our Andersen Specialty Window Series & Product Options guide provides a deeper comparison of the current 100 Series, 400 Series, and A-Series choices.
If you’re still comparing how specialty windows fit with other Andersen styles, explore our Guide to Andersen Picture Windows, Guide to Andersen Casement Windows, Guide to Andersen Awning Windows, Guide to Andersen Double-Hung & Single-Hung Windows, and Guide to Andersen Gliding Windows.
For designs focused on larger architectural openings or indoor-outdoor connections, you can also compare Andersen bay and bow windows and our Guide to Andersen Pass-Through Windows.
Better Variety. Better Service. Better Prices.
Call 757-689-6210 or request your estimate online to get started.