Thanks all! Really wish I remember the paint. I did examine it once and it wasn’t any special off brand kind. It was black paint that was made for exterior applications. They didn’t prime, they had to do several coats and were really exceptional painters though, the kind that don’t use tape and they freehanded everything. It was pretty incredible. Like I said, after a year, some wear showed where leaves or debris had hit the paint and chipped a bit but quick touch ups were easy for me to tackle.

Yes only GBG with those two (last I checked). I went with Andersen 100s, with exterior and interior grilles, and they look incredible. Cheapest option and by a significant margin if you order from HD. I'd recommend the casements over the SH version. Could have been my install but the action on the SHs are pretty wonky. Action on the casements is perfect.

Ask for dual color options! Some companies offer it while others may not. Here's an example of red exterior with grey interior on a thermally broken aluminum window: Hope this helps!

RL - we helped our son and daughter in law build their tiny house - it's now in Port Angeles, WA. They had the same goals as you, used Roxul, wanted low VOCs, USA made products etc. They used Sierra Pacific clad windows and did the interior sash painting themselves. I don't know if no VOCs is possible, very low is attainable and theirs had months to off gas during the build before they moved in. Best of luck with your project. It makes for an interesting lifestyle.