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Desperately need window advice

11 years ago

We live in an older house with old Anderson windows and doors. They held up well and have been great windows but now need them both badly. A
Though impressed with Anderson quality the price is outrageous. We got estimates from them, Pella, and Champion. Since the estimates I have researched and researched. After reading these responses I am more confused. All windows seem to have good and bad reviews. In reading these responses I am more convinced that all windows have lovers and haters. Is there any good lasting windows that won't break the bank. We know cheap will result in cheap poor quality windows and are willing to spend decent money on them but without the outrageous gouging. Please help me locate decent windows. We live in western Iowa so have cold and hot weather. Some of the windows and doors will be in sun half a day. PLEASE help!

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Comments (4)

HomeSealed
11 years ago
husker, you are correct that you'll find lovers and haters of every product. Often times, these are the people that sell the particular product, or its direct competitor ;)
Since you mentioned Champion, I assume that vinyl is a material that you are considering? Each material (vinyl, wood, fiberglass, composites) has its own unique pros and cons, but if you are simply looking for the best "bang for the buck", it is very hard to beat premium vinyl. You'll generally get the best energy numbers, warranty, and price. A few products that are almost universally well regarded are Okna/HiMark, Sunrise, Softlite, Polaris, and Homeguard. When trying to determine quality and performance, take the salesperson's presentation with a grain of salt, and look at the actual performance ratings. U-value, Air infiltration, design pressure, etc are very much indicative of the overall quality of a given product.
PRO
Windows on Washington Ltd
11 years ago
Opinions are like...you know...

Just kidding of course.

Research is your friend in this case. The more you do, the more confused you will be for a little bit, but rest assured, you will be the better for it.

Keep us posted as you get more quotes and you will certainly get all the feedback that you ask for.
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I wouldn't put TV on window wall either. Going with a traditional sofa I would face it towards the wall with bookcases, and place the TV and TV stand in between the bookcases. Center the sofa as best as you can and don't shove it up against the wall with the windows, leave room for a small side table only if you need it lighting, otherwise leave it as a way to move into the TV area. You would have access on both sides of the sofa. Set the Sofa where the back of it is just behind the 'eye line' of doorway to dining room, leaving ample room to walk by the sofa, and to have a nice coffee table in front of it. There should be room to the right of the sofa (near the window that's closest to bookcase) for a chair. Don't put it on the wall, or in the corner. You want to make it part of the seating area so place it accordingly. You could either put the computer desk behind the sofa and give it a dual purpose, and use the remaining space in the room as a conversation / reading area with a couple of chairs, with nice artwork. Or just hang artwork and have a hall type of table to set your keys on. You could set up the space for the kids to hang out, play games, read, or whatever. Get a cool kids Teepee (u can find them at Target) and set it in the corner. They would probably be in it all the time. Anyway that's what blew thru my mind. I often 'think outside the box' and I'm no genius, but I try to enjoy my surroundings and change things up when I can, using what I already have. Best of luck!
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mecarp
11 years ago
Hi when buying windows check the contract details very carefully! Some guarantees diminish with time and are relatively poor value.

Highly expensive windows would indicate quality, but I have seen very expensive windows that are just plain average quality and when installed, have not been fit correctly.

If it's plastic you are after check the extruded section sizes (larger are normally better). Check for thermal breaks in the window frame sections. Check the type of locks and catches for integrity. Do they use an espagnolette locking system with shoot bolts or simple espagnolette system. Are the fitting stainless steel or just coated mild steel. Check the sealed units in the frames are going to give you the best U value performance. A U value is, a numerical value indicating the transmittance of heat from inside to the outside. The lower the U value the less heat loss, so saving you money in the long term.

A good performing window can cost a lot less over it's life than a poor performing window. Price may play a part but the quality of the window and correctness of fitting are what is important. It's a very competitive market so get quotes, check contracts and window specifications and make an informed decision.
mmarse1
11 years ago
Agree, a high quality vinyl uPVC window is a much better investment than wasting money on some cheap plastic window..there is also fiberglass window options from Inline, Marvin infinity and composites from Starmark and Provia. Andersen Renewal is a composite that is mostly vinyl but it does have saw dust added to it .

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